Cyclone Chido ripped through Mayotte, an impoverished French territory in the Indian Ocean, on December 14th, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Almost a week after the storm, the island grapples with the aftermath, facing severe shortages of water and grappling with the emotional toll of the disaster.

At least 31 people have been officially confirmed dead, though authorities believe the true number may be significantly higher due to undocumented migrants and the practice of immediate burials according to Islamic tradition.

The storm, one of the worst to hit Mayotte in 90 years, ravaged the island’s infrastructure, particularly the tin-roofed homes that make up many of its slums. Entire communities were flattened, leaving residents desperate for aid and facing a bleak outlook.

Macron’s visit met with anger and frustration

French President Emmanuel Macron flew to Mayotte on Thursday to assess the damage and offer support. However, his visit was met with anger and frustration from residents demanding to know why aid had not reached them promptly.

“You are happy to be in France. If this wasn’t France, you’d be in a bath of shit 10,000 times worse. There is no other place in the Indian Ocean where people are helped as much, that’s a fact,” Macron was recorded saying, his words sparking immediate backlash.

Macron extended his stay overnight, stating that he wanted to show the people of Mayotte that France was committed to helping them rebuild. However, frustration continued on Friday, with residents voicing their concerns over the lack of water and other essential resources.

A plea for international aid

Mayotte, officially home to 320,000 people, is estimated to have another 100,000 to 200,000 residents, many of them undocumented migrants from the Comoros Islands.

Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, argued that addressing the issue of migration is crucial for Mayotte’s reconstruction. Alliances with international bodies are critical for delivering the necessary resources and expertise to rebuild this devastated island.

Ali Djimoi, a resident of Kaweni, a slum near the capital Mamoudzou, stated that Mayotte had been “completely abandoned by the French state.” He lamented the lack of access to clean water and the immense challenge of rebuilding lives after the storm.

Join us in supporting the people of Mayotte as they navigate the long road to recovery. Donate to reputable organizations working on the ground to provide essential aid and support.