Mayotte is grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which struck the island on December 14, 2023, leaving behind widespread destruction and significant loss of life. Nearly eight days after the cyclone's devastation, officials struggle to determine the accurate count of victims, raising fears of potentially catastrophic numbers amid initial estimates of casualties and missing people.
President Emmanuel Macron visited Mayotte on December 19 and 20 to express solidarity with the beleaguered residents, following reports from various media underscoring the destructive aftermath of the cyclone. According to The New York Times, "Near the week after the devastating cyclone, most streets are now passable... But the haunting question remains: how many have truly perished due to Cyclone Chido?" This question looms large as officials report at least 35 confirmed deaths, 67 severe injuries, and approximately 2,500 additional casualties.
Estelle Youssouffa, the deputy representing Mayotte, has voiced her concerns about the underreported numbers. Speaking on France Inter, she stated, "We don’t know the number of deaths. We estimate several tens of thousands missing because these areas, which were extremely densely populated, are now almost empty." Her alarming claims suggest the cyclone's death toll could reach much higher, as much of the damage has impacted overcrowded informal settlements.
The situation is dire for Mayotte, identified as the poorest department of France. Youssouffa emphasized, "90% of Mayotte is destroyed, 90% of buildings no longer have roofs. We lack water, food, and emergency services have been slow to reach affected areas." This highlights the lack of infrastructure and the overwhelming demands faced by local authorities and rescue operations.
Macron's visit was also marked by tense exchanges with residents who expressed their anger and frustration over the slow response to their needs. Following the assessments gathered during his visit, Macron declared December 23 as a national day of mourning to honor the victims of Cyclone Chido.
The official estimates from France’s natural disaster management agency reflected grave concerns, yet they scarcely address the underlying vulnerabilities faced by Mayotte. With the population around 320,000, the island has also been burdened by the presence of 100,000 to 200,000 individuals living undocumented, compounding challenges for rescue operations.
The elected representative's remarks also shed light on the humanitarian crises, drawing attention to areas completely buried under debris where rescue efforts struggle to operate. "None of the missing persons have washed ashore; they are likely buried under tons of mud and waste," said Youssouffa, stressing the urgent need for immediate assistance to survivors.
Estelle Youssouffa’s call for military assistance to restore order amid looting was met with both support and concern. She urged, "I desperately ask for the army to be dispatched to prevent chaos," reflecting the rampant looting occurring near the few homes still standing. The expressed sentiments point to the dire need for coordinated efforts to maintain security and provide aid.
The backdrop of political machinations added to the frustration felt by the island's inhabitants. Several local politicians, including Saïd Omar Oili, criticized the apparent neglect from the French government during this crisis, alleging political distractions overshadowing the lives of many. "Like always, we are overshadowed; Mahorais will feel the consequences of this disregard," said Oili, referring to the coinciding announcement of the new government and the national day of mourning.
French authorities are now engaged in extensive efforts, launching missions to locate missing persons and restore basic services. Yet for many residents, the longer it takes to assess damage and provide necessary aid, the more distressing the situation becomes, as immediate needs for water, food, and shelter persist.
The narrative of Cyclone Chido is one of despair intertwined with resilience, as the people of Mayotte brace for what may still lie buried beneath the debris and mud. Local leaders continue to call for international assistance to alleviate the dire situation, highlighting the need for swift action and response for survivors during this national mourning.
