By Ayomide Otitoju
Following the devastating cyclone that struck Madagascar’s east coast, Mercy Ships has joined national disaster response efforts in Toamasina (Tamatave), providing essential relief supplies in coordination with government authorities.
Cyclone Gezani caused widespread destruction across the region, displacing thousands of residents and severely damaging homes, public infrastructure, and healthcare facilities.
Speaking on the intervention, Nicholas Ahadjie, Country Director of Mercy Ships in Madagascar, emphasized the importance of collaboration during emergencies.
“In moments like these, partnerships and solidarity matter most,” he said. “We are committed to supporting the national response and ensuring that assistance reaches communities where the needs are greatest.”
As part of its immediate response, Mercy Ships delivered 537 bags of rice, 1,000 roofing sheets, and 1,000 ready-to-eat meals. The supplies arrived in Toamasina and were formally handed over to the government’s designated disaster response coordination body for onward distribution to affected communities.
The roofing sheets are expected to help families, schools, and community health facilities commence urgent repairs. While the rice will be distributed to households with functional cooking facilities, the ready-to-eat meals are intended to provide immediate support to displaced persons and vulnerable individuals.
Although the charity’s hospital vessel, Africa Mercy, is currently undergoing scheduled maintenance in South Africa, preparations are underway for its return to Madagascar. The ship is expected to resume surgical services and medical training programmes in collaboration with the Ministry of Health in May.
“Our presence in Madagascar is ongoing,” Ahadjie added. “While the ship is in maintenance, our engagement with partners continues. We stand with the Malagasy people today and remain dedicated to strengthening healthcare capacity for the future.”
Mercy Ships has partnered with Madagascar for several years, providing free specialized surgeries, professional medical training, and infrastructure support. The organization reaffirmed that the recent disaster would not halt its commitment to reinforcing the country’s national health system.
