The shipment was ordered by President Vladimir Putin to address shortages caused by cyclones
Russia has delivered critical humanitarian aid to Madagascar, including around 60 tons of food, to support relief efforts after two consecutive cyclones, the Russian Embassy in the island nation has reported.
Last month, Madagascar was struck by two powerful tropical systems, Gezani and Fytia, in quick succession. Fytia hit on January 31, causing severe flooding in the northwest and central highlands, killing at least 14 and displacing over 31,000.
Gezani struck the eastern coast near Toamasina, the country’s main port, on February 10, devastating nearly 90% of infrastructure, killing at least 59, and leaving hundreds of thousands without shelter or clean water. The government declared a national state of emergency on February 14.
On February 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for Madagascar during talks in Moscow with the country’s interim president, Michael Randrianirina, and directed the Defense and Emergency Situations Ministries to provide aid.
The handover ceremony was held at Antananarivo International Airport on February 27. Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations provided 60 tons of food – 30 tons of rice, 16 tons of red beans, and 13 tons of vegetable oil.
The Defense Ministry supplied six trucks, sugar, pasta, and sunflower oil. Two Mi-8 helicopters were also deployed to reach remote areas.
Footage released by Ruptly shows Randrianirina inspecting the equipment on the runway and attending the cargo handover ceremony alongside senior civilian and military officials.
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