French President Emmanuel Macron encountered widespread frustration and anger during his visit to Mayotte, an Indian Ocean archipelago devastated by the strongest cyclone in nearly a century. The aftermath of the cyclone left residents in Tsingoni without access to drinking water or phone service, prompting cries for help from the affected population.
During his visit, Macron faced boos and shouts from residents in Pamandzi on Petite-Terre island, expressing dissatisfaction with the slow aid efforts. Macron, known for his willingness to engage in debate, addressed the crowd, acknowledging the hardship and emphasizing unity.
Mayotte, with a population of 320,000 residents and an estimated 100,000 migrants, is France's poorest department. The cyclone caused significant damage to neighborhoods, with many residents caught off guard by the storm's severity.
Efforts to restore essential services, such as repairing water pipes, were underway across the islands. In Mirereni village, Civil Security officers worked to remove a fallen tree that damaged a water pipe serving around 10,000 people in nearby villages. Repair efforts were hindered by the heat, impacting equipment and causing concerns about potential disease outbreaks due to the lack of water.
The cyclone resulted in at least 31 deaths and 2,500 injuries, with fears of additional casualties. The government initiated a methodical process to account for the deceased, conducting a census with the assistance of local authorities and organizations. Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq highlighted challenges in locating hospital and health staff, with a significant portion still unaccounted for.
The situation in Mayotte remains critical, with ongoing efforts to provide essential services and support to the affected population. Macron's visit underscored the urgent need for assistance and highlighted the resilience of the community in the face of adversity.
