The medical mission to Ankavandra faced extreme heat, insecurity from nightly bandit gunfire, and a harrowing surgery to save a gunshot victim, yet the team successfully treated numerous patients and showcased their work to visiting partners in this remote area.

The recent medical safari to Ankavandra was one of our most challenging missions yet, given the region’s inaccessibility and the looming threats of insecurity. Our team had to split into two groups: one flew directly from Tana to Ankavandra, while the other embarked on a lengthy car journey to Tsiroanomandidy before boarding a plane. The final leg involved a 90-minute walk and a river crossing from the airstrip to the village, all under sweltering heat that intensified the difficulty of the mission.

Beyond the physical challenges, the threat of bandit attacks cast a shadow over the mission. Every night, gunshots echoed through the village, and just before our arrival, a man was tragically killed by dahalos, who stole his zebus.

One of the most harrowing moments came on our second night. Around 11:30 p.m., a gunshot rang out, and shortly after, our team was woken for an emergency. A man had been shot in the stomach and was gravely injured. Despite fear among the team, we mobilised quickly and performed a three-hour surgery that successfully stabilised the man. However, the next morning, we were informed that he had passed away, leaving us uncertain about what happened afterward.

In another notable moment, a young man attacked by a crocodile during our last mission in June returned to see us. His arm had healed, though he still experienced pain, for which we provided treatment.

The mission also saw a special visit from a team from MAF Norway, our country director Doreen, and engineer Emily from Ricardo in the UK. It was a pleasure to host them and showcase the progress made in such a remote and challenging location.

Despite the intense heat, insecurity, and the ever-present fear of dahalo attacks, the mission was a success. We treated a significant number of patients and provided essential care to this isolated community, showing once again the resilience and dedication of our team.

STATISTICS

Medical consultation 353; Ultrasound 97; Dental extraction 29; Opthamology 20; Surgery: major 18, minor 4. Total: 521