THE SELECTION AND DESIGN OF VEGETATED DUNES AS PREFERRED MAIN COASTAL PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR BEIRA, MOZAMBIQUE

Abstract

The coastal city of Beira is vulnerable to cyclones, storm surges, sea-level rise and floods from intensive rainfall events because of its low-lying situation. Cyclone Idai in 2019 has proven this again. A significant improvement of the coastal protection scheme is needed to provide sufficient protection for Beira to protect from hazards from sea and climate change for decades to come. The coastal protection infrastructure is to be integrated into the urban and natural environment of Beira, whilst seeking socio-economic, environmental and urban synergy. In this context, we performed an extensive flood and erosion risk assessment, feasibility study and design, environmental and social scoping study and set up an implementation strategy for the selected preferred alternative and priority measures. This included an intensive stakeholder engagement process throughout the project (2020-2022).