France observed a national day of mourning on Monday for the victims of Cyclone Chido, which wreaked havoc on Mayotte, the country’s poorest territory, just over a week prior. This devastating storm is recorded as one of the most destructive events to ever hit the archipelago, leading to considerable loss of life and extensive damage.
On December 14, 2024, Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, resulting in at least 35 confirmed deaths and injuries to approximately 2,500 individuals. The real casualty figures are expected to be much higher, as many bodies may still be trapped under the rubble and the chaotic conditions on the island make recovery efforts complex. Local customs, particularly the Muslim practice of burying the dead within 24 hours, complicate accurate death toll assessments.
Eyewitness accounts reveal the intensity of the cyclone. Zaharia Youssouf, recalling her harrowing experience, said, "I called him three times. The first time I asked if he was OK. The second time he told me he and our son had eaten. The third call… He said, 'I'm not cooking for you.' After, I couldn't reach him.” Her husband, Baco Houmadi, unfortunately, lost his life during the storm, which caught many residents off guard.
The impact of Cyclone Chido extends beyond personal tragedies; it dismantled basic services like water and electricity supply across Mayotte, leaving thousands displaced and struggling to rebuild their lives. "At least I had a man in the house. Even if he didn't work, he brought something home," Youssouf lamented, emphasizing the void left by her husband's absence.
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of unity and remembrance during the national mourning, which is unprecedented as it marks the first such observance for victims of climate-related disasters since the establishment of the Fifth Republic. At the Élysée Palace, Macron stood for a minute of silence alongside public officials and encouraged all of France to commemorate the victims.
The French government has faced criticism for its response to Mayotte’s plights. Lawmaker Estelle Youssouffa voiced accusations of neglect, stating, "Nobody cares about Mayotte -- it's appalling!" bringing attention to the long-standing issues the island has faced, which were exacerbated by the cyclone's catastrophic impact.
Bruno Retailleau, the recently resigned Minister of the Interior, also expressed his dismay during his visit to Mayotte. "I never thought I would see such devastation… the landscapes I had previously seen were completely gone," he stated, addressing the gravity of the situation and emphasizing the urgent need for national solidarity and support for recovery efforts.
A memorial gathering attended by emergency services and residents took place in Mamoudzou, Mayotte’s capital, where the local authorities convened to honor the victims. The prefect of Mayotte, François-Xavier Bieuville, emphasized the government’s commitment to assist those affected, pledging to restore necessary services as swiftly as possible.
While the cyclone has also impacted regions of southeastern Africa, with reports indicating 94 fatalities due to its passage through Mozambique, the focus of memorial and recovery efforts lies primarily on Mayotte at this moment.
Currently, recovery teams are working tirelessly to restore the damaged infrastructure and assist thousands of displaced residents. This situation has brought forth discussions about the need for sustainable development and proper crisis management, particularly for areas frequently affected by climate change and natural disasters.
With Macron and local leaders pledging support, many people hope for effective action and meaningful recovery plans. The scenario serves as a call to action for both the government and citizens of France as they unite to honor the deceased and support the survivors.
This historic day of mourning fosters reflection on the precariousness of life on Mayotte, where many families are left to navigate the dual trauma of personal loss and environmental catastrophe. The world watches closely, hopeful for recovery and change.
