United Nations and Humanitarian Partners Launch US$67.8 Million Cyclone Flash Appeal for Madagascar [EN/FR]

Antananarivo, 20 February 2026 – The United Nations and humanitarian partners today launched a US$ 67,8 million Cyclone Flash Appeal to provide urgent, lifesaving assistance to 486,012 people following two devastating cyclones that struck Madagascar.

Tropical Cyclone Fytia made landfall on 31 January, followed by Tropical Cyclone Gezani near Toamasina on 10 February, bringing torrential rains, destructive winds and widespread flooding. Cumulatively, more than 681,000 people have been affected, with extensive damage to homes, infrastructure and agricultural land.

“Madagascar is facing yet another severe climate shock, and needs are rising as assessments continue,” said the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Anthony Ngororano. “Families have lost homes, livelihoods and sources of food. Immediate support is critical to save lives and protect the most vulnerable.”

According to the Government, at least 59 people lost their lives due to Cyclone Gezani alone; more than 800 people were injured. Preliminary assessments indicate that over 470,000 were affected. Some 35,000 people have been displaced, with 3,200 people sheltering in 19 temporary sites.

The impact on infrastructure and means of sustenance to the West and East of Madagascar is severe. Damage to homes, schools, health facilities and key infrastructure has disrupted essential services and cut access routes, deepening vulnerabilities among communities, while the destruction of crops is expected to worsen food insecurity in the coming months. Flooding and overcrowded sites are increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.

The Government continues to lead the response. The United Nations and humanitarian partners are supporting ongoing efforts with life‑saving food assistance, water and sanitation services, health care, protection, nutrition programmes and emergency shelter.

“We are grateful to donors and Member States who have already shown solidarity with the people of Madagascar at this pivotal time,” the Resident Coordinator added. “We urge the rapid and flexible disbursement of funds to ensure that life‑saving assistance reaches affected communities without delay.”

Based on aerial and rapid assessments, humanitarian partners estimate that US$67,8 million million is urgently required to assist 486,012 people for the next three months. This requirement forms part of the Government’s broader US$142 million appeal launched on 14 February, covering immediate humanitarian needs, early recovery and reconstruction priorities.

Despite swift mobilization by national authorities and partners, response capacity remains stretched due to access constraints and limited supplies. We call for solidarity to ensure a timely scale up of emergency and early recovery support.

Contact details: Tantely Frederic MANANTENASOA – UN Madagscar: tantely.manantenasoa@un.org or Tapiwa Gomo – OCHA : gomo@un.org

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