Comoros has declared a week of national mourning following Cyclone Chido’s destruction in Mayotte, where authorities anticipate several hundred deaths and significant infrastructure damage. French military aid is en route to address the burgeoning humanitarian crisis, complicating recovery efforts due to the high number of undocumented migrants affected.
On Monday, the government of Comoros officially declared a week of national mourning following the destruction caused by Cyclone Chido in nearby Mayotte. President Azali Assoumani announced that the period of mourning would extend until Sunday, acknowledging the tragic loss of life and significant damage to infrastructure across the islands. Authorities estimate that Cyclone Chido, categorized as a category four storm, may have resulted in several hundred fatalities, particularly among vulnerable populations residing in shantytowns.
Cyclone Chido struck Mayotte, a French island in the Indian Ocean, with winds exceeding 220 kilometers per hour. Despite its proximity, Comoros and Mayotte have distinct political identities, as Mayotte opted to remain a French territory in referendums during the 1970s. French government statistics from 2017 indicate that approximately 95 percent of Mayotte’s official population of 320,000 are Comorans, with many relying on clandestine trips across the waters in canoes. Estimates suggest that the actual population may be significantly higher due to irregular immigration, placing additional strain on already limited resources.
In the aftermath of the cyclone, efforts are underway to provide immediate assistance. France has deployed military personnel and ships to deliver rescue workers and supplies to Mayotte, aiming to clear debris from roads for unimpeded access. The devastation has led to widespread disruptions of essential services, including electricity and water supply, intensifying concerns about the well-being of those affected. Reports indicate that hunger is rising as residents struggle to find adequate shelter and sustenance, complicating relief operations.
The Comoros archipelago, located off the eastern coast of Africa between Madagascar and the mainland, consists of several islands, with Mayotte being one of the most populous and socio-economically challenged territories. Cyclone Chido has inflicted unprecedented damage on Mayotte, classified as the most severe storm in nearly 90 years. Historical context reveals that Comoros gained independence from France in 1975, while Mayotte opted to remain affiliated with France, leading to differing socio-political circumstances. Many inhabitants of Mayotte are economically disadvantaged and live in informal settlements, making them particularly vulnerable to natural disasters. The ongoing humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the cyclone has highlighted these issues, drawing attention to the region’s need for urgent international assistance.
In conclusion, the devastation wrought by Cyclone Chido has prompted the Comoros government to declare a week of national mourning, as it grapples with the impact of this unprecedented disaster impacting neighboring Mayotte. With thousands potentially affected and critical resources dwindling, the urgent response from France underscores the severity of the situation while highlighting ongoing challenges related to migration and infrastructure. The commitment to aid and rebuild is crucial as the islands strive to recover from this tragic event.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
