In December 2024, Tropical Cyclone Chido struck the small French island of Mayotte of the East coast of Africa causing significant damage to local infrastructure including the telecom network of TDF Infrastructure.
The French mobile operator has been working continuously to restore services and support the local population through the crisis, reporting a rapid and coordinated mobilisation of ground teams to ensure the continuity of essential services and rebuild damaged infrastructure.
A crisis unit was activated immediately after the cyclone in response to the disaster, which temporarily restored three critical sites to deliver FM radio broadcasting within just 48 hours.
TDF report that currently 17 out of 18 sites had been restored for telecom services, with television and radio operational again. 41 telecom tower sites are being restored, with a target of 80% of sites to be operational by March 15th and reconstruction of destroyed sites by the end of April.
TDF is also contributing to other essential services for local residents including the deployment of antenna dedicated to Red Cross to support humanitarian aid, and Maritime Emergency Services.
Oliver Huart, CEO of TDF, stated "Cyclone Chido was an unprecedented challenge for our teams and for Mayotte. I want to commend the responsiveness, determination, and exemplary solidarity demonstrated by our employees, both on-site and remotely.
“Together, we are not only rebuilding our infrastructure but also strengthening our connection with the local communities and our partners. A huge thank you to our employees, partners, and subcontractors. Together, we are rebuilding a resilient digital infrastructure network for Mayotte."
