Macron Unveils Ambitious Overhaul Plan for Mayotte, Four Months After Cyclone Chido

During a visit to Mayotte on Monday, April 21, President Emmanuel Macron announced a €3.2 billion “overhaul” plan for the archipelago, aimed at addressing the aftermath of Cyclone Chido, boosting security, and supporting local development. Spread over six years (2025–2031), the funding package will be subject to regular reviews and will draw on national, European, and international sources.

Accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron and several ministers, the President outlined the plan during a visit marked by direct exchanges with residents and local officials. Concerns were raised over persistent water shortages, fragile infrastructure, delays in post-cyclone aid, and rising health fears amid a chikungunya outbreak. Macron assured that a vaccination campaign would begin on Tuesday.

In the wake of the storm—which left around 40 dead and caused an estimated €3.5 billion in damage—the government aims to go beyond emergency measures. A legislative package was approved during a special Cabinet meeting held via video conference from the presidential plane, with a parliamentary vote promised “by summer.” The bill seeks to address housing, employment, security, and social cohesion in a comprehensive way.

Security, Housing, and Economy: A Comprehensive Approach

A key component of the plan targets illegal immigration. Dubbed “hurawa wa shaba” (“iron wall”), the operation will bolster maritime surveillance with new radar systems and an upgraded fleet. The goal: increase annual deportations from 25,000 to 35,000, according to the Élysée. The legislation also includes tighter residency rules and expanded voluntary return support.

To combat substandard housing, the government plans to facilitate the clearance of illegal settlements and enforce a ban on the reconstruction of slums—an urgent demand from local leaders. Zero-interest loans for reconstruction are beginning to be disbursed, Macron said.

Toward Social and Economic Convergence

The plan also proposes turning Mayotte into a full economic free zone, with 100% tax breaks to stimulate investment. Another key pillar is social convergence with mainland France: minimum social benefits such as the RSA, currently 50% lower than on the mainland, would be progressively raised.

Macron acknowledged the technical infeasibility of extending the airport runway on Petite Terre—a 2019 pledge—and instead proposed building a new airport on Grande Terre as an alternative.

As Mayotte faces mounting pressure from migration—particularly from neighboring Comoros—the President pledged a “profound shift” in policy within a year. He reaffirmed that Mayotte has a future in this region, provided the necessary means are put in place. In a territory where unemployment reaches 37% and public frustration runs high, the stakes are both politically and symbolically significant for the government.