In Mayotte, the reconstruction of the social housing stock has entered a structured phase. One year after Cyclone Chido, which struck in December 2024, the Mayotte Real Estate Company is leading a major construction program, while aligning its efforts with a broader strategy for modernizing the building stock. This initiative is supported by the CDC Habitat, which strengthened the developer’s financial foundation in order to ensure the reconstruction and anticipate the region’s future needs.
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A Climate Shock with Structural Consequences
The cyclone's passage had a profound impact on SIM's housing stock. Nearly half of the housing units were affected, resulting in a estimated project cost of 53 million euros. When operating losses and asset disposals are factored in, the’The overall economic impact reached 72 million euros. In light of this situation, the social housing provider launched a two-year reconstruction plan, without, however, interrupting its development activities.
At this point, 1,131 housing units have been included in restoration projects and 574 housing units have already been completed. The target date for completing the reconstruction of all damaged housing units remains set for the end of 2026. This ramp-up was made possible by a temporary increase in local staff, with support from CDC Habitat Group employees deployed to the region.
Rebuild without reverting to the existing structure
However, the strategy goes beyond mere renovation. SIM approaches its projects with a focus on the sustainable improvement of its housing stock, paying particular attention to housing quality and its resilience to climate-related risks. This approach is actively supported by the landlord’s management.
For Ahmed Ali Mondroha, CEO of SIM, says that reconstruction also presents an opportunity for transformation:
«We’re not just rebuilding. The work we’ve undertaken is aimed at modernizing and improving housing, in order to provide our tenants with a safer, more comfortable living environment that is better suited to the climate-related risks facing the Mayotte region.»
This ambition is being pursued within a constrained local context. The capacity of the construction sector in Mayotte, the technical requirements of certain buildings, and the logistical challenges related to supply chains directly influence the pace of construction projects. Despite these structural limitations, SIM is maintaining its objectives and adjusting its organizational structure to ensure the smooth progress of operations.
In parallel with the construction work, the landlord has incorporated the social impact of the crisis into its operational response. Rent reductions—ranging from 20 % to a full waiver, depending on the condition of the units—have been granted to affected tenants. These measures are accompanied by regular communication to maintain a constant connection with the residents throughout the duration of the construction work.
Financial support to combine reconstruction and development
From a financial standpoint, the reconstruction relies on a structure that combines several approaches. Insurance payouts, à 20 million euros, formed an initial foundation. Added to this were 41 million euros in loans «improved" CATNAT », mobilized with the support of the Banque des Territoires at the request of the government. This measure was supplemented by a capital increase for SIM.
In line with this approach, CDC Habitat carried out a a capital increase of 10 million euros, supplemented by a an additional contribution of 600,000 euros from the Caisse des Dépôts. Financial support that is part of a long-term vision.
For Anne-Sophie Grave, Chair of the Executive Board of CDC Habitat, said that this commitment reflects a strategic continuity:
«The capital increase granted to SIM is part of the group’s commitment to supporting the region. It aims to facilitate reconstruction while also supporting, over the long term, the development of housing options tailored to local needs and climate challenges.»
Thanks to this support, SIM expects that by 2026, the delivery of 390 new homes and the start of construction on nearly 321 additional housing units. This projection illustrates the commitment to ensuring that the response to the post-hurricane emergency is not separated from the need to sustainably expand the housing supply in Mayotte.
Source: SIM / CDC Habitat Press Release, Mamoudzou, January 14, 2026