The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern and solidarity with the Government and people of the Madagascar following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gezani, which national authorities have declared a national disaster.

In a statement issued on behalf of the African Union, Youssouf conveyed heartfelt condolences to families who have lost loved ones in the cyclone and extended solidarity to those injured, displaced or otherwise affected.

Cyclone Gezani has caused widespread disruption, damaging homes and critical infrastructure and affecting essential services.

While detailed assessments of the full scale of destruction are still underway, the declaration of a national disaster underscores the severity of the situation and the scale of response required.

The storm’s impact has left communities grappling with destruction and urgent humanitarian needs, prompting calls for coordinated support across the continent and beyond.

Youssouf commended the rapid response efforts undertaken by national authorities and local communities, noting that they continue to work tirelessly under challenging circumstances.

At the same time, the Chairperson stressed that national efforts alone will not be sufficient to address the humanitarian and reconstruction challenges ahead.

He called upon African Union member states, regional economic communities, international partners, humanitarian agencies and the private sector to urgently mobilize financial, material and technical resources.

“The Chairperson calls upon AU Member States, regional economic communities, international partners, humanitarian agencies, and the private sector to urgently mobilize financial, material, and technical resources to support immediate relief efforts and long-term reconstruction.”
African Union station

The emphasis on coordinated action reflects the African Union’s broader commitment to disaster response and resilience-building across the continent.

Madagascar, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is particularly vulnerable to tropical cyclones and extreme weather events, which have become more frequent and intense in recent years.

According to the African Union Commission, coordinated continental and international solidarity will be critical in addressing immediate humanitarian needs and supporting recovery.

Key priorities identified include emergency shelter for displaced families, food security measures, access to healthcare services, safe water and sanitation, and the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure damaged by the cyclone.

African Union Commission Reaffirms Readiness To Work With Madagascar

According to the statement, African Union Commission reaffirms its readiness to work closely with the Government of Madagascar, relevant AU organs, and humanitarian partners to facilitate assistance and support resilient recovery and reconstruction efforts.

It added that the African Union stands united with Madagascar during this difficult time and reiterates its unwavering commitment to supporting the country’s path toward recovery, stability, and sustainable development.

By issuing a public expression of solidarity, the African Union Commission signaled its readiness to support Madagascar during this period of crisis. The statement also serves as a call to action for member states and partners to contribute resources and expertise.

As Madagascar begins the process of assessing damage and prioritizing needs, international and continental cooperation will likely play a central role in determining the speed and effectiveness of recovery efforts. The Chairperson’s appeal highlights the interconnected nature of disaster response, where timely assistance can mitigate long-term impacts.

Cyclone Gezani’s aftermath presents significant humanitarian challenges, but the message from the African Union emphasizes unity and shared responsibility.

Through expressions of sympathy and calls for mobilization, the Commission aims to reinforce a framework of solidarity that extends beyond national borders.

For the families mourning loved ones and the communities facing displacement and hardship, the road to recovery may be long.

The African Union’s statement seeks to ensure that Madagascar does not face that journey alone, urging a collective response to meet urgent needs and support sustainable reconstruction in the months ahead.