📖 About Bandrélé

Bandrélé is a commune in the south of Mayotte, France's Indian Ocean department, famous for its stunning lagoon and traditional salt harvesting. The village is recovering from devastating Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi, with a €1.9 million reconstruction loan signed with the Banque des Territoires in 2025 to rebuild schools, cultural centers, and infrastructure over 30 years.

In August 2025, Bandrélé inaugurated major new facilities: a multisports terrain at the elementary school and the Municipal Office of Youth and Sports (OMJS). A floating swimming pool costing €800,000 opened at Musical Plage to prevent drownings and revive school swimming programs—funded 80% by the State, National Sports Agency, and Ministry of the Sea.

Bandrélé FC achieved historic football success in 2025, winning both the Régionale 1 championship and the regional Coupe de France for the first time. The commune faced water crisis challenges in October 2025 due to maintenance at the Ourovéni treatment plant, highlighting infrastructure vulnerabilities that reconstruction efforts aim to address.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Bandrélé's economy blends traditional fishing and salt production with growing ecotourism. The commune's location within Mayotte's world-famous lagoon makes it a gateway for marine tourism. Salt harvesting at the Ecomusée du Sel preserves ancient techniques while attracting cultural tourists. Local fishermen supply fresh seafood to restaurants and markets across Mayotte.

Mahorais culture in Bandrélé reflects Comorian, African, and French influences. The predominantly Muslim population celebrates traditional festivals and maintains customs dating back centuries. The 2025 inauguration of the OMJS signals investment in youth development and community sports. Despite cyclone damage, community solidarity drives reconstruction while preserving the village's traditional character and natural beauty.

📜 History

Bandrélé has been inhabited for centuries by Mahorais people with Comorian and Swahili heritage. The village developed around fishing and salt production, with the salt flats becoming economically and culturally significant. Mayotte voted to remain French in 1974 when the other Comoros islands chose independence, and became a full French department in 2011.

Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi in late 2024 and early 2025 caused severe damage across Mayotte, including Bandrélé. The €1.9 million reconstruction loan and new facilities represent unprecedented investment in the commune's recovery and future development. Despite challenges including water scarcity and infrastructure needs, Bandrélé maintains its identity as a tropical paradise where traditional ways meet French administrative modernity.