Cyclone Chido deepens divisions between locals and migrants in Mayotte

Mayotte, a French department located between Madagascar and mainland Africa, faced a devastating impact from Cyclone Chido. The cyclone ravaged the island’s vulnerable infrastructure, leaving thousands homeless and many fearful of displacement. The storm highlighted the ongoing tensions between the local population and an estimated 100,000 migrants, primarily from the nearby Comoros Islands. Residents expressed their frustration, accusing the government of prioritizing migrants over legal residents in relief efforts. Despite efforts for reconstruction, many locals felt neglected and stated that the island's resources could not support its existing population, let alone accommodate more migrants. French authorities disclosed the official death toll to be at least 35, although estimates suggest it could be significantly higher, with hundreds still unaccounted for. The cyclone's devastation has exacerbated issues related to the influx of migrants. Many migrants avoided emergency shelters during the storm due to fears of deportation, opting to remain in precarious living conditions in shantytowns, known as "bangas." This avoidance left them even more exposed to the cyclone's fury, raising concerns about their safety and well-being. Amidst the wreckage, the sentiment among locals reveals deep-seated anxieties regarding resource allocation. Residents like Fatima expressed frustration with the lack of basic necessities such as clean water and food, attributing their plight to perceived government favoritism toward migrants. French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the challenges posed by rapid population growth in Mayotte, underscoring the necessity to address illegal immigration to stabilize the region. Political voices in France have noted the complex geopolitical situation surrounding Mayotte. The ongoing migration crisis is fueled by the unresolved status of the archipelago, claimed by the Comoros Islands. Strategies proposed by political leaders, including outgoing Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, focus on stricter border controls and the use of technology like drones to manage migration. Critics contend that these approaches may further polarize the community without addressing the underlying causes of migration and inequality. The aftermath of Cyclone Chido not only revealed the island’s fragile infrastructure but also illuminated the strained relationship between its local residents and the migrant population, indicating a need for comprehensive policy discussions moving forward.