MAMOUDZOU: France's Prime Minister Francois Bayrou visited Mayotte on Monday to address the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, which devastated the French archipelago in the Indian Ocean in mid-December. Bayrou reassured residents of the government's commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term recovery needs.
According to Anadolu Agency, Bayrou spoke in the capital, Mamoudzou, emphasizing the government's focus on understanding and responding to the crisis. "Our duty is to ask the question and try to provide answers. This will be done (...) through proposed laws that will isolate certain subjects," he stated. He also dispelled rumors of mass casualties, clarifying that fatalities were estimated at "a few dozen or a few hundred," with official figures reporting 39 dead and over 5,600 injured. Earlier statements had suggested the possibility of "several hundred" deaths.
Bayrou introduced the "Mayotte Debout" (Mayotte Standing) recovery plan, designed to offer both immediate and long-term solutions. "After a day of dialogue, we will announce a plan this evening that will be called 'Mayotte Debout,'" he announced. The plan aims to address all identified needs promptly, with recovery efforts unfolding in two phases.
The Prime Minister highlighted the state's relief efforts since Cyclone Chido struck, noting that 685,520 liters of water and 74.5 tons of food have been distributed. In addition, 2,000 tarpaulins have been distributed to provide temporary shelter, with an additional 4,000 in the process of distribution. However, challenges remain, as only 48.5% of households have had electricity restored.
Bayrou reiterated the government's commitment to rebuilding the archipelago within two years, stating, "This is an objective that we must set ourselves." He mentioned a second phase of recovery to be implemented in a few months as part of a long-term plan.
During his visit, Bayrou stopped at key sites, including the Petite Terre desalination plant and Kaweni 2 college. He also attended a ceremony honoring Gendarmerie Captain Florian Monnier, who lost his life during cyclone recovery efforts.