Working together to combat the effects of the cyclone
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A report on the alliance between the Madagascan government and Helimission
In February 2026, the Swiss foundation Helimission’s humanitarian work was severely tested. After the devastating Cyclone FYTIA, authorities and aid organizations were confronted with massive damage in various regions of the island nation. An exemplary collaboration ensued between the government and the non-governmental organization (NGO) to provide the fastest possible relief.
The emergency call from the ministry. On February 2, 2026, the Ministry of Transport and Meteorology in Antananarivo contacted the Helimission representative in Madagascar directly. In an official letter, the Secretary General of the Ministry described the urgency of the situation. After an initial assessment in Mahajanga, the government planned an immediate mission to the severely affected areas of Mahanoro, Vatomandry, and Toamasina.
The mission’s objectives were clear: assisting the victims, assessing the situation on the ground, and gathering information about the population’s most urgent needs. In doing so, however, the government reached its logistical limits. While the armed forces provided a helicopter for the western part of the country, the government explicitly asked Helimission to transport the delegation to the eastern part of the island.
A flight with the highest priority. The helicopter mission responded promptly. On the morning of February 3, 2026, pilot Nick took off on a flight that highlighted the close ties between the NGO and the government. On board was a high-ranking delegation that was part of the cyclone relief program.
According to an internal report by Helimission’s base manager, Craig, to the international director, Simon, three ministers and the head of government himself were on board the helicopter alongside a colonel.
Logistics and distribution. The cooperation was not limited to transporting people. The ministry pointed out that relief supplies and equipment were already on their way by land and would be received and redistributed during the delegation's visit. The helicopter mission served as a crucial link here, quickly transporting decision-makers to areas that were difficult to access due to storm damage.
Background: Why Helimission?
It is no coincidence that the Madagascan government turned to Helimission in such a crisis. The foundation maintains one of its two permanent helicopter bases in Madagascar and specializes in reaching people in remote and inaccessible areas.
The organization's philosophy aligns perfectly with emergency scenarios such as this one:
Free emergency assistance: While regular users often pay for fuel, Helimission usually carries out disaster relief operations free of charge, financed by voluntary donations.
Infrastructure: The foundation regularly transports medical personnel and building materials and also supports local bush hospitals, establishing itself as an experienced logistics partner.
The operation in February 2026 underscores Helimission's role, not only as a medical service provider but also as a strategic partner to the Madagascan government in times of national crisis.
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