In the aftermath of the devastating passage of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte, a humanitarian emergency was immediately declared in view of the considerable impacts suffered. In this department where young people represent a preponderant part of the population, children now find themselves on the front line, weakened and vulnerable. Mathilde Derez, Overseas Advocacy Officer at UNICEF, is sounding the alarm about the worrying situation in which these young souls find themselves.
Mayotte, a French territory located in the Indian Ocean, was already facing major challenges before the natural disaster. With more than half of its population made up of children under 18, the island continues to face widespread deficiencies, further accentuated by the devastation caused by the cyclone. In a region where precariousness is omnipresent, with 77% of inhabitants living below the poverty line, children’s living conditions are exacerbated, exposing them to increased risks.
UNICEF is therefore calling for the implementation of emergency measures to help these children traumatized by the violence of the disaster. The opening of temporary reception centers is recommended, offering shelter and essential psychological support to these impacted young people. Supporting these children in their healing and reconstruction process is becoming imperative to alleviate the emotional after-effects caused by the cyclone and its devastating consequences.
More than ever, solidarity and mutual aid must be at the heart of the actions carried out in Mayotte to meet the urgent needs of children, the first victims of this humanitarian tragedy. It is essential to act quickly and effectively to preserve the well-being and future of these young people, guarantors of tomorrow’s society.