EMBARGOED TO THE MEDIA UNTIL WEDNESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2003, 1100 NEW YORK TIME 

Madagascar

2004 HUMANITARIAN APPEAL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Madagascar is prone to natural disasters including endemic drought, recurrent cyclones and flooding. Between 26 January and 4 February 2004, tropical cyclone Elita hit Madagascar several times causing havoc in a number of districts, leaving 29 people dead, 100 injured and 44,190 homeless. On 7 March 2004, barely a month after cyclone Elita, intense tropical cyclone Gafilo hit the country killing 74 people. Cyclone Galifo has affected the lives and livelihoods of an estimated 774,000 people.

The purpose of this Flash Appeal is to present the international community with a consolidated view of the immediate needs of those critically affected by the disaster. The Appeal provides an indication of the resources required by the United Nations (UN) agencies and their partners to assist the Government of Madagascar in responding to the emergency relief needs as well as to support initial rehabilitation activities. The appeal covers the period from 19 March to 19 June 2004.

The requirements of the appealing agencies are based on the capacities and resources available in Madagascar, assistance already provided and a consolidated view of the priority needs. In this regard, of the total 774,000 people affected, it is estimated that approximately 309,500 are in need of relief supplies. Requirements Details of targeted populations are elaborated in the sector analysis. have been identified in consultation with national authorities, the Red Cross and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The cyclone season is not yet over in Madagascar. Donors are requested to note that the assumption underpinning this Appeal is that the prevailing operational conditions will improve over the next three months and that the activities identified are the minimum required to secure lives and livelihoods. There also remains the possibility of a further deterioration in the situation and a commensurate increase in the assistance requirements. For this reason, donors are requested to respond to the US$ 8.72 million appealed as early as possible.
 

Flash Appeal Cyclone Gafilo
 19 March-19June 2004
Summary of requirements by Sector
(US$)