Solidarity with Mayotte: “Three Months After the Disaster, the Situation Remains Critical”
Karine Meaux, head of Fondation de France’s Emergency Response division, provides an update on the current situation in Mayotte and the organisation’s ongoing priorities in the severely affected region.
What is the situation in Mayotte today?
Three months after the disaster, the situation in Mayotte remains highly concerning. Despite the measures put in place, particularly by the associations we support, significant challenges persist, especially regarding the distribution of essential aid such as water and food. Another major issue is ensuring that residents are informed about the available assistance and the expected wait times. While a health crisis related to the lack of drinking water has been averted thanks to close monitoring by public authorities, the social climate remains tense.
What are Fondation de France’s priorities after three months of action?
Fondation de France remains fully engaged on the ground. Three missions have already been carried out in close collaboration with our partner associations. Our primary focus remains on addressing urgent basic needs, as well as providing medical and psychological support to affected populations. We are also supporting associations that offer educational, social, and cultural activities for children.
Last month, we visited the region to launch pilot projects aimed at securing damaged housing, preventing landslides, and assisting residents in repairing their homes. Our efforts are geared towards sustainable and eco-friendly reconstruction, in cooperation with public stakeholders. To support economic recovery, we are funding several farming associations to help purchase seeds and equipment, strengthening food security in the region. At the same time, we have initiated discussions to support environmental initiatives, such as cleaning rivers and forests and replanting mangroves, to preserve the island’s essential biodiversity.
How are the different stakeholders working together?
One of the main challenges remains the coordination and close collaboration between local associations, businesses, local authorities, and government services to ensure an effective and well-coordinated response to both the emergency and the long-term recovery of the region. We are committed to fostering dialogue between all stakeholders. Our committee plays a key role in this process. Comprising emergency experts and specialists from diverse and complementary fields, the committee meets weekly to ensure a rapid and effective response, while closely monitoring the use of donated funds.
TO FIND OUT MORE
→ Solidarity with Mayotte: 3 Months of Support
→ Solidarity with Mayotte: Two Months Supporting Communities Hit After Cyclone Chido
→ Solidarity with Mayotte: Cyclone Recovery Efforts One Month On
→ Emergencies: rebuilding lives over the long term