Saturday December 14, 2024, Cyclone Chido hits the island of Mayotteleaving local populations in an emergency situation, with an entire island to rebuild. In conjunction with the French Red Cross, the Order of Malta France mobilizes in the face of chaos. Thus, around twenty rescuers, including doctors and nurses, have been taking turns on the island since December 21, 2024.
A unique adventure
“It was a very enriching human experience, confide Timothée and Guilhem, two first aiders from the Order of Malta France. Throughout our presence on site, we dealt with situations that made us improve our skills in responding to humanitarian emergencies.”
Arriving on December 21, 2024 in a geographical area still completely shaken by the passage of the cyclone, the two rescuers really became aware of the seriousness of what had just happened: “Burned landscapes and bangas (editor’s note: kinds of shanty towns) almost razed”.
Immediately, the two rescuers got in touch with French Red Cross teams to unite their actions and their strength. They then become aware of the needs and begin to take part in helping the Mahorais.
From the end of December, the association’s first aiders set up an Associative Medical Post within the ESCRIM (Rapid Civil Security Element for Medical Intervention) to help Civil Security take care of injured populations.
-A great first for the Order of Malta France
Inside the Civil Security tent entrusted to the Order of Malta France, first aid workers provide first aid to people who have sores. They also provide medical consultations and follow-up. According to Timothy, between 90 and 120 people are welcomed every day for 6 hours straight.
“A great first for the Order of Malta France”rejoices Guilhem. After a year 2024 marked by great moments, notably with participation in the Paris 2024 Games, it is a new challenge that the rescuers are taking on: managing such a crisis. Mobilization on the ground is organized around three axes: managing the medical and health aspect, ensuring a social component and providing logistical support.
Many needs
Although the situation is improving on the island, the needs of the Mahorais remain significant (medical, logistical and food).
The association is calling on the generosity of the public here to continue helping there.
