France Accused of Neglecting Climate Threat to Fragile Mayotte
In the wake of Cyclone Chido wreaking havoc on the French overseas department of Mayotte, residents and experts are pointing fingers at the French government, claiming it did not adequately prepare the island for the increasing danger posed by powerful storms. The cyclone caused high winds, heavy rain, and massive waves, resulting in a death toll that authorities fear could soar from 31 to over 1,000 on Mayotte’s two islands. The most affected are those living in precarious “banga” slums with tin roofs, including tens of thousands of undocumented migrants.
### Devastation Unveiled
France’s interior minister, Bruno Retailleau, described Mayotte as “totally devastated,” with about 70% of the population severely impacted. The French Red Cross echoed this sentiment, calling the damage “unimaginable.” The cyclone, the strongest in at least 90 years, was intensified by warm Indian Ocean waters, according to the Météo-France weather service.
### Climate Change Worsens Impact
Experts revealed that the failure to adapt to climate change exacerbated the cyclone’s effects. A local official lamented the island’s fragility, citing the weakness of buildings in withstanding the storm. Emily Wilkinson, director of ODI Global’s resilient and sustainable islands initiative, criticized Mayotte’s safety plans as inadequate.
### French Response and Criticisms
French President Emmanuel Macron, during a visit to Mayotte, defended the government’s actions, claiming warnings were issued, and services were in place. However, he faced backlash from angry locals who accused the government of insufficient aid. Samira Ben Ali, a climate campaigner from Mayotte, accused France of neglecting warnings from activists and politicians, leaving residents feeling like “second-class citizens.”
### Urgent Need for Support
The devastation in Mayotte underscores the urgency for robust early warning systems and adequate infrastructure for disaster management. Residents, especially undocumented migrants, were reluctant to seek shelter due to fears of deportation. The lack of prepared evacuation centers and clear instructions exacerbated the situation.
### Calls for Reconstruction
As Mayotte looks towards rebuilding, questions about calls for independence loom. The French government’s response to reconstruction will play a pivotal role in determining the future of the islands. Failure to provide adequate resources and attention could fuel demands for independence, similar to those witnessed in other French territories.
In the face of this catastrophe, the resilience and unity of the people of Mayotte shine through, highlighting the pressing need for urgent action and support in the wake of natural disasters. France’s response to the crisis will not only define the rebuilding process but also shape the future of Mayotte and its residents.