The aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which struck Mayotte earlier this month, has plunged the archipelago—often regarded as the most vulnerable region of France—into chaos and mourning.
This cyclone, recognized as the most intense to hit the area in 90 years, has wreaked havoc since it made landfall on December 14, 2024, with winds surpassing 220 km/h. According to officials, the cyclone has claimed the lives of at least 31 people, with thousands more injured and local authorities bracing for numbers to rise considerably as rescue operations continue. "It is likely there are many more victims," cautioned President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to the island on December 19, 2024, where he observed the widespread destruction.
Having landed with four tons of humanitarian aid, Macron met with the deeply affected residents, many of whom had lost their homes and loved ones. "Mayotte is dead," echoed the sentiments of local resident Moussa Hamidouni, reflecting the despair felt throughout the island as the cyclone obliterated much of the population's informal housing. With one third of the bayous termed as 'indigneux' and destroyed, the need for sustainable rebuilding has never been more urgent.
Recognizing the extensive damage, Macron announced several measures intended to ease the burden on the local population and facilitate recovery. This includes the declaration of December 23, 2024, as a national day of mourning, during which flags will be flown at half-mast and public moments of reflection will take place.
To tackle inflation and stabilize the economy disrupted by the storm, the French government has instituted price controls on basic goods, including water and food supplies. This action is expected to remain until the country gets back on its feet. "We have put all necessary means to quickly manage the crisis," stated Macron, stressing the importance of providing immediate aid to the island.
Meanwhile, the government is working overtime to mobilize resources, with more than 1,000 healthcare volunteers ready to reinforce local medical services, which are significantly strained post-cyclone. "We are dispatching water and food as quickly as possible," said Geneviève Darrieussecq, the health minister, delineation the challenges faced by isolated communities without access to basic necessities.
Underpinning recovery efforts, Macron has proposed the establishment of compensation funds for those not covered by insurance. Alarmingly, only about 6% of properties on the island have habitation insurance, which leaves many without financial support amid this catastrophe. The damage from Cyclone Chido is preliminarily estimated to cost between €650 million and €800 million, as indicated by the French public reinsurance company, CCR.
Macron's visit also highlighted his long-term vision for Mayotte. His commitment to eradicate informal settlements and replace adequate housing through future legislation has been warmly received, particularly when acknowledging the state of emergency the cyclone has imposed. "We will build with new criteria," he reiterated, addressing the necessity for stronger infrastructure and safety measures to withstand natural disasters.
Despite the sorrow felt by many, there is also resilience. The Foundation of France reported raising over €14 million within just days of launching its appeal—an exceptional response to the dire situation. This outpouring of support from across the nation signals collective empathy for the plight of the Mahorais as they navigate the process of rebuilding their lives.
With the current operational port and air bridge to La Réunion facilitating the transport of aid, the hope remains palpable among the citizens. This bridge allows for the delivery of food, water, and shelter to those most urgently needing assistance—most of which is expected to be airborne deliveries to ontouch communities.
Local authorities are hopeful, as they work together with national governance to clarify operations and surmount the multitude of obstacles still facing them. Macron concluded with urgency—vowing to revisit the island and continue providing assistance as long as necessary.
The words of care echoed among the people—"Mahorais, we will get through this together," harkening to the chances of recovery and the promise for the future.
