Antananarivo, Madagascar – The devastating impact of Cyclone Gajaani has left a trail of destruction across the island nation, with the death toll climbing to 59 and over 800 people injured. National disaster management authorities released the grim update on Monday, highlighting the scale of the crisis in eastern and central regions.
The cyclone battered five regions encompassing 25 districts, affecting more than 420,000 residents. Over 49,000 homes suffered damage, while another 25,000 were completely destroyed. Rescue and relief operations are in full swing as teams race to assess the full extent of the losses and deliver aid to those in desperate need.
In response to the widespread devastation, the Malagasy government declared a ‘state of national disaster’ on February 11. The declaration cited massive loss of life, community displacement, and severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods. Compounding the tragedy, the cyclone followed closely on the heels of Cyclone Fitia and relentless heavy rains, exacerbating floods and economic fallout.
The United Nations stepped in swiftly, announcing $3 million in emergency funding last Thursday through its Central Emergency Response Fund. This aid targets over 90,000 people, with additional contributions from other donors accelerating relief efforts. Early assessments reveal over 250,000 people impacted, 7,000 displaced, 65,000 homes flooded or ruined, and nearly 600 classrooms rendered unusable.
Government-led search, rescue, evacuation, shelter, and food assistance programs are underway, bolstered by UN partners distributing around 800 metric tons of rice. International appeals for help underscore the urgency, as Madagascar grapples with one of its most severe natural disasters in recent memory. Recovery will be long and arduous, but coordinated global support offers hope amid the ruins.