Toamasina, Madagascar – A Southern African Development Community (SADC) Emergency Response Team (ERT) arrived in Toamasina, Madagascar on February 18, 2026, and has been integrated into the nation’s humanitarian response following the devastating impact of Tropical Cyclone Gezani. The cyclone made landfall on February 10, 2026, compounding the challenges already faced after Tropical Cyclone FYTIA struck earlier in the month.
The deployment underscores SADC’s commitment to regional solidarity and providing critical support to member states facing natural disasters. The team’s relocation of its coordination base to Toamasina, a vital economic hub located approximately 350 kilometers northeast of the capital, Antananarivo, will enhance logistical efficiency and coordination with government and local responders.
The SADC ERT’s mission began with a meeting with Mr. Razafiarison Jean Jugus, Chief of the Atsinanana Region, where the team received a briefing on the scale of the disaster and ongoing relief efforts. Mr. Jugus outlined the immediate needs of affected communities and shared updates on damage assessments. The Atsinanana region, heavily impacted by Cyclone Gezani, is crucial for Madagascar’s economy due to its port city of Toamasina.
Antonio Jose Beleza, Team Leader of the SADC ERT, expressed condolences for the loss of life and acknowledged the widespread damage to infrastructure and livelihoods. He assured national authorities that the team is prepared to fully integrate into existing operational structures and contribute effectively to the humanitarian response. “SADC reaffirms its commitment to supporting the people of Madagascar during this difficult time,” Beleza stated.
Cyclone Gezani’s Impact: A Growing Humanitarian Crisis
Tropical Cyclone Gezani brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, triggering widespread flooding and landslides across Madagascar. As of February 18, 2026, reports indicate that at least 62 fatalities have been confirmed, with 15 people still missing and over 800 injured. More than 420,000 people have been affected, and tens of thousands have been displaced from their homes.
Significant damage has been reported to critical infrastructure, including homes, schools, and health facilities. Over 25,700 houses were flooded, 48,000 partially damaged, and 25,000 destroyed, according to the latest reports. At least 781 classrooms and 30 health facilities have been damaged, disrupting access to essential services. Agricultural losses are also substantial, particularly in rice-producing areas, with more than 382,000 people facing acute food security needs.
SADC’s Response and Regional Coordination
The SADC ERT will focus on conducting rapid assessments, strengthening search and rescue operations, enhancing information management, and providing technical assistance to affected communities. This intervention is part of a broader coordinated regional humanitarian response under the SADC disaster response framework. SADC has also activated internal processes to facilitate access to the Regional Disaster Fund, complementing national and international resource mobilization efforts.
The deployment follows closely on the heels of Cyclone FYTIA, which impacted Madagascar on January 31, 2026, exacerbating the humanitarian situation. The combined impact of these two cyclones has placed a significant strain on the country’s resources and response capabilities.
Looking Ahead: Continued Support for Madagascar
The SADC ERT will remain in Madagascar from February 16 to 28, 2026, providing ongoing support to national authorities. Humanitarian partners estimate that $49 million is urgently required to support 382,000 people over the next two and a half months, complementing the Government’s $142 million appeal. Significant funding gaps remain, hindering the scale-up of assistance.
The situation in Madagascar remains fluid, and continued monitoring and support will be crucial in the coming weeks and months. The focus will be on providing immediate relief to affected communities, restoring essential services, and supporting long-term recovery efforts.
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