Joint Relief for Vohipenoely
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During the joint operation between the Madagascan government and Helimission to deal with the aftermath of Cyclone FYTIA, aid was also provided to the village of Vohipenoely.
The aim of this mission was to provide assistance to the victims of the cyclone, assess the situation on the ground, and gather information about the most urgent needs of the population. While the government provided an armed forces helicopter for the western part of the country to assess the situation there after the cyclone, it reached its logistical limits and explicitly asked Helimission to take over the flights in the east of the country.
Almost simultaneously with the cyclone, 44 houses in the village of Vohipenoely burned down on Sunday, February 1, 2026. In one of the houses, a fire broke out near the cooking area. In Madagascar, people in rural areas still cook over open fires. Unfortunately, this often leads to incidents that, in the worst case, result in houses burning down.
The Ministry of Population asked Helimission if it would be possible to visit this village to assess the situation on the ground and bring initial relief supplies. After consulting with the authorities, a visit to the village was approved, and relief supplies were organized.
Pilot Nick took off on a flight illustrating the cooperation between Helimission and the government. A high-ranking delegation that was part of the cyclone relief program was on board.
The Minister of Population accompanied this flight and was thus able to get a first-hand impression of the situation on the ground. The relief supplies addressed the villagers’ most urgent needs and provided immediate encouragement. The villagers greatly appreciated this support. The minister also promised to provide additional funding.
The mission in February 2026 confirms Helimission's role not only as a medical service provider but also as a strategic partner of the Madagascan government in times of national crisis.
Nick, Pilot and Mechanic
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