SADC Deploys Emergency Response Team to Madagascar Following Cyclone Gezani
Toamasina, Madagascar – February 20, 2026 – 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, which made landfall on February 10, 2026. This deployment follows closely after Tropical Cyclone FYTIA impacted the region on January 31, 2026, compounding the challenges faced by the island nation.
SADC Response and Coordination
The deployment of the SADC ERT is part of the regional body’s established disaster response mechanisms, designed to complement and reinforce government-led efforts in member states severely affected by natural disasters. The team has established its coordination base in Toamasina, a vital economic hub located approximately 350 kilometers northeast of the capital, Antananarivo [1]. This strategic location enhances logistical efficiency and coordination with government and local responders.
Initial Assessments and Collaboration
The SADC ERT initiated its mission with a meeting with Mr. Razafiarison Jean Jugus, Chief of the Atsinanana Region. During the meeting, the team received a briefing on the scale of the disaster and ongoing relief efforts [1]. Mr. Jugus outlined the immediate needs of affected communities and shared updates on damage assessments.
Impact of Cyclone Gezani
Tropical Cyclone Gezani brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, triggering flooding and landslides. These events caused extensive damage to homes, roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure [1]. As of February 16, 2026, more than 400,000 people across 18 districts in five regions – Atsinanana, Analamanga, Analanjirofo, Itasy, and Alaotra Mangoro – have been affected, with reported fatalities [1].
ERT Objectives and Support
The SADC ERT, working in collaboration with MapAction, Rescue South Africa, and the World Food Programme (WFP), will be on the ground in Madagascar from February 16 to 28, 2026 [1]. Their mission includes providing technical support to national authorities in:
- Emergency response coordination
- Search and rescue operations
- Geospatial expertise to inform decision-making
- Ongoing situation monitoring
- Consolidation of a regional humanitarian appeal informed by evolving impact assessments
Regional Solidarity and Resource Mobilization
Antonio Jose Beleza, Team Leader of the SADC ERT, expressed condolences for the loss of life and acknowledged the widespread damage. He assured national authorities that the team is prepared to fully integrate into existing operational structures and contribute effectively to the humanitarian response [1]. SADC has also activated internal processes to facilitate access to the Regional Disaster Fund, complementing national and international resource mobilization efforts [1].
Current Situation Overview
As of the latest reports, Cyclone Gezani has affected 25 districts across five regions. There have been 62 reported fatalities, 15 people remain missing, and over 800 individuals have sustained injuries. More than 420,000 people have been impacted, with tens of thousands displaced [1].