HoverAid continues its vital work in remote Madagascar, making significant strides in medical missions and water & sanitation projects. Here’s a summary of the key developments and statistics from the past quarter:
HoverAid UK: Operations Strengthening & New Arrivals
HoverAid has boosted its operations with Jess joining as Supporter Engagement and Operations Administrator. We’re also revamping our website to improve supporter experience.
Exciting news includes the arrival of two Mobile Medical Clinics, donated by the Deichmann Foundation. These off-road trucks feature air-conditioned treatment rooms with surgery, dental, and ultrasound capabilities, ready to serve remote communities.
In other developments, our new hovercraft has begun initial hovering tests at our Sussex workshop, and we’ll soon begin full water testing.
HoverAid Madagascar: Medical Missions & Emily’s Experience
July through September saw our Madagascar team conduct impactful medical missions. 3,435 patients were seen and treated across five medical safaris, to Mangabe, Belo sur Tsiribihina, Nosy Varika, Ankavandra, and Ambatolahy. 163 surgeries were performed, including life-saving operations. This year up to the end of September, a total of 6,000 patients have received care, with some traveling over 100 km. to do so.
Emily, a mechanical engineering student from the RICARDO team, joined us in Madagascar. She helped to test the Vortex 5 hovercraft, even hovering it over lily pads. She also joined our MMS mission to Ankavandra, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges faced by isolated communities. Reflecting on her trip, Emily shared, “The experience was eye-opening. The warmth of the people and dedication of the doctors left a lasting impression.”
WASH Projects & Infrastructure Growth
Our Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programme in Beroroha resumed with the distribution of BioSand Filters. This has provided clean drinking water and essential hygiene training.
Meanwhile, the construction of our Beroroha base is nearing completion, and upgrades to our Tana garage will support the maintenance of our growing fleet, including the new mobile clinics.
Looking Ahead
With new equipment and ongoing missions, HoverAid remains committed to providing life-changing care and services to remote communities. Stay tuned for more updates as our new hovercraft and mobile clinics get to work!
