Workers load plastic sheeting on a helicopter to provide temporary shelter for people in eastern Madagascar affected by cyclones.

USAID/T. Gibbs

Madagascar is uniquely vulnerable to natural disasters, which routinely strike different regions of the country and can suddenly and drastically affect the food situation of varying parts of the population. Over the past 35 years more than 50 natural disasters have struck the country; cyclones, droughts, floods and locust infestations have affected over half the population. These natural disasters have in turn led to epidemics, including malaria, and food shortages. 

USAID is working to increase the capacity of villages and communities to cope with and recover from natural disasters by training local leaders in disaster preparedness. Communities across east and southeast Madagascar have developed early warning systems and disaster risk reduction plans.

When a cyclone or other natural disaster wreaks havoc on vulnerable areas in Madagascar, USAID and its partners provide immediate relief through food distribution, plastic sheeting for shelter and clean water and hygiene kits, as well as longer term reconstruction work.

Learn more 

Madagascar: In the Depths of the Drought