Residents of Mayotte are grappling with severe shortages of water, food, and medical supplies following the devastation wrought by Cyclone Chido, which struck the archipelago with winds reaching 200 km/h. The provisional death toll stands at 31, with 2,500 injuries reported, but many fear these numbers could climb higher.
During his recent visit, President Emmanuel Macron faced frustration and anger from locals who feel the government's response has been too slow. Macron’s visit was marked by urgent discussions about the enormous humanitarian needs of the island residents, many of whom are still recovering from the shock of the storm.
"On ne pourra pas rouvrir toutes les écoles le 13 janvier," Macron warned during discussions with local media. He acknowledged the extensive damage to educational facilities, noting, "Il y a des communes (...) qui ont perdu les trois quarts de leurs écoles." Approximately 40% of the 250 schools on the island are reported damaged, complicate planning for classes to resume.
Alongside these grim assessments, Macron's administration pledged to restore basic services swiftly. "Je veux que les gens aient de la sécurité, de l'électricité et de l'eau au robinet," he stated, emphasizing the urgency of securing clean water for residents.
The President confirmed the government aims to provide water and food supplies to all affected areas as soon as possible, highlighting immediate logistical efforts. "L'objectif est d'approvisionner toutes les communes de l'archipel touchées par l'ouragan en eau et nourriture jusqu'à dimanche au plus tard," he assured during his address to the media.
Despite these promises, the population remains deeply skeptical of government efficacy. Many residents have criticized the state's handling of the crisis, with some openly expressing their discontent during Macron's visit. Videos captured moments where residents confronted the President, showcasing the divide between government pledges and the locals' lived reality. Macron himself became embroiled in controversy for stating, "Si Mayotte n'était pas un département français, ils seraient 10 000 fois plus dans la merde," which some interpreted as dismissive of local struggles.
The cyclone has not only caused destruction but has also compounded existing issues on the island, which has long faced challenges such as poverty and inadequate infrastructure. Macron's government is now proposing special legislative measures to expedite recovery efforts, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
Local community leaders and residents have rallied for more effective aid distribution and support for rebuilding their lives. With Macron's two-day visit coming to an end, many anxieties linger on the effectiveness of the governmental response.
Looking forward, Macron’s government has committed to charting out plans for not only rebuilding infrastructure but also addressing the root causes of vulnerability faced by many Mahorais. The President’s presence during such trying times may be insufficient without tangible results to follow suit.
With reconstruction efforts slated to take place over the next two years, as promised by Macron during his visit, it is hoped resilience and unity will guide the island’s recovery.
The situation remains fluid, and as Macron stated, "On va proposer des solutions à La Réunion ou ailleurs" for educational continuity, efforts are critically needed to restore normalcy and safety for the communities affected by Cyclone Chido.
