“Cyclone Gezani damaged nearly 70% of homes in Toamasina and disrupted the lives of thousands of families,” stated Atou Seck, World Bank Group Country Manager for Madagascar. The World Bank Group approved $225 million in funding yesterday for the Integrated Urban Development and Resilience for Jobs project (Produire 2). This new program aims to strengthen cities’ resilience against climate risks, improve essential infrastructure, and create more jobs in the Greater Antananarivo and Greater Toamasina metropolitan areas.
“Thanks to Produire 2, people will be able to rebuild stronger homes, while essential public infrastructure and services will be restored and reinforced. Barikadimy University, which was severely damaged by the cyclone, will be completely rebuilt to higher standards to continue welcoming students for generations to come,” continued Atou Seck, World Bank Group Country Manager for Madagascar.
Building on the achievements of the Produire project in Antananarivo, Produire 2 plans to intensify investments in flood protection, drainage, solid waste management, neighborhood rehabilitation, and land tenure security. In Toamasina, where Cyclone Gezani damaged nearly 70% of dwellings, the project will support the reconstruction of more resilient housing as well as the restoration of essential public infrastructure, including schools and health centers.
“When cities function better, residents live better. Thanks to this new project funded by the World Bank Group, families will benefit from safer neighborhoods, better infrastructure, improved access to land services, and more economic opportunities. This investment will help create jobs, support local businesses, and provide more Malagasy people with the means to build a better future for themselves and their children,” declared Dr. Herinjatovo Ramiarison, Minister of Economy and Finance.
Mialisoa Ida
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-07 07:13:00 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/apres-gezani-toamasina-se-reconstruit.html