MADAGASCAR
Date of establishment: June 26, 1960
Brief history:
Pre-Colonial Period: Madagascar was first settled over 2,000 years ago by Austronesian migrants from Southeast Asia, particularly from present-day Indonesia and Malaysia. These early settlers brought with them rice cultivation, which became a staple of the Malagasy diet. Later, Bantu-speaking migrants from East Africa arrived, contributing to the island’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Over the centuries, various kingdoms and tribal communities emerged on the island, the most significant being the Kingdom of Merina in the central highlands, which eventually unified much of the island under its control in the early 19th century.
Colonization: European interest in Madagascar began in the 16th century, with Portuguese, Dutch, and British sailors exploring the island. The French established a presence in the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the late 19th century that France colonized Madagascar. In 1896, after the Franco-Hova Wars, the French formally annexed the island, abolishing the Merina monarchy and turning Madagascar into a French colony in 1897.
Independence: Madagascar gained independence from France on 26 June 1960, with Philibert Tsiranana becoming the first president. His administration was closely aligned with France, and the country retained strong economic and political ties with its former colonizer.
Post-Independence Political Development: Tsiranana’s government faced growing dissatisfaction, particularly over its reliance on France and its failure to address domestic issues. In 1972, amid widespread protests, Tsiranana was forced to resign, and General Gabriel Ramanantsoa took over, promising reforms. However, his tenure was short-lived, and in 1975, Colonel Richard Ratsimandrava briefly assumed power before being assassinated just six days later, plunging the country into a period of political instability.
Period of Socialist Rule: In 1975, Didier Ratsiraka, a former naval officer, became president and declared Madagascar a socialist state. His government pursued a policy of nationalization, centralized economic planning, and close ties with the Soviet Union. The Ratsiraka regime, however, struggled with economic inefficiency, corruption, and growing opposition, leading to significant hardships for the Malagasy people.
Democratization: In the early 1990s, following widespread protests and economic decline, Ratsiraka agreed to a transition to a multi-party system. In 1992, a new democratic constitution was adopted, and in 1993, Albert Zafy won the presidential election, marking the beginning of Madagascar’s democratic era. However, Zafy was impeached in 1996, and Ratsiraka returned to power in the 1997 elections.
Political Instability: The early 2000s saw further political turmoil. Marc Ravalomanana, a businessman, was elected president in 2002 after a disputed election against Ratsiraka, leading to a brief civil conflict. Ravalomanana implemented economic reforms but faced criticism for authoritarian tendencies. In 2009, after months of protests, he was ousted in a coup led by Andry Rajoelina, a former mayor of Antananarivo. Rajoelina assumed the presidency during a transitional period marked by international sanctions and political unrest.
Recent Developments: Madagascar has struggled with political stability since the 2009 coup. Elections were eventually held in 2013, with Hery Rajaonarimampianina elected president. Andry Rajoelina and Marc Ravalomanana returned to the political scene, with Rajoelina winning the presidency again in 2018.
International abbreviation: MG
Currency: Malagasy ariary MGA
The currency of Madagascar is the ariary (MGA), which replaced the Malagasy franc (MGF) in 2005. The ariary is unique as it is one of the few non-decimal currencies in the world, where 1 ariary is subdivided into 5 iraimbilanja. The Malagasy franc was the official currency until the transition to the ariary, which began in 2003 and was completed in 2005.
Ariary banknotes are issued in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, and 20,000 ariary. Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 ariary. Both coins and notes are widely used in everyday transactions throughout the country.
Internet domain: .mg
Dialing code: +261
Time zone: GMT +3
Geography:
Madagascar is an island country located in the southwestern part of the Indian Ocean, approximately 400 km (250 miles) off the east coast of the African continent. It is the largest island in the Indian Ocean and the fourth largest island in the world. The island is renowned for its diverse geography, which includes a variety of landscapes ranging from mountains to coastal plains and unique ecosystems.
The central part of Madagascar is dominated by a high plateau, known as the Central Highlands, which includes mountain ranges such as the Ankaratra and Andringitra. The highest peak in Madagascar, Maromokotro, is located in the Tsaratanana Massif in the northern part of the island.
The eastern part of the island is characterized by a narrow, steep escarpment that descends to a coastal plain lined with tropical rainforests. These rainforests are among the most biodiverse areas in the world and are home to many endemic species.
The western part of the island is more arid, with a mix of savannah, deciduous forests, and limestone formations known as tsingy. The southwest of the island is particularly dry and is home to the spiny forests, which are dominated by drought-resistant, thorny plants and succulents, many of which are unique to this region.
Madagascar has several major rivers, including the Betsiboka, Sofia, Mangoky, and Tsiribihina. The Mangoky River is one of the longest rivers in the country, flowing through the central and western regions. In addition to rivers, Madagascar is home to several freshwater lakes, the largest of which is Lake Alaotra in the central-eastern part of the island. This lake is an important area for agriculture and wildlife, particularly for the endangered Alaotra gentle lemur. The eastern coastline also features mangrove forests that are crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity.
Highest peak: Maromokotro 2 876 m a.s.l. (9 436 feet above sea level)
Maromokotro is located in a high mountain range in the central part of the island and is part of the Tsaratanana massif. The mountain range is characterized by beautiful nature, high mountains, and wonderful views.
Climate:
Madagascar has a diverse climate, largely influenced by its geography and position in the Indian Ocean. The climate ranges from tropical along the coast to temperate in the highlands and arid in the southwest. Average temperatures generally range from 20°C (68°F) in the central highlands to 30°C (86°F) in the western and lowland regions.
The country has distinct rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season typically lasts from November to April, with the eastern coast and central highlands receiving the most precipitation due to the influence of the southeastern trade winds and monsoons. During this time, the eastern part of the island experiences heavy rainfall, which sustains the lush rainforests in this region.
In contrast, the western and southwestern parts of Madagascar have a more pronounced dry season, which lasts from May to October. These areas receive significantly less rainfall, contributing to the arid and semi-arid landscapes found in the southwest.
The central highlands, including areas around Antananarivo, experience milder temperatures due to the elevation. Average temperatures here range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F) during the cooler months of June to August, and 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the warmer months of November to March.
In the southwest, where the climate is more arid, temperatures can often exceed 30°C (86°F) during the hot season, particularly in regions such as the spiny forests.
While Madagascar does have high mountains, including Maromokotro (2,876 meters or 9,436 feet), they are not high enough to maintain snow cover year-round. Snow is extremely rare, and if it occurs, it is typically only during brief, unusual cold snaps on the highest peaks.
Fauna and flora:
Madagascar is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, with a high percentage of its flora and fauna being endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. The island is famously home to lemurs, a group of primates that are unique to Madagascar. There are over 100 species and subspecies of lemurs, including the well-known ring-tailed lemur, the indri (the largest lemur), and the tiny mouse lemur.
The island is also famous for its chameleon population. Madagascar is home to nearly half of the world’s chameleon species, including the largest, Parson’s chameleon, and one of the smallest, the Brookesia chameleon, which is just a few centimeters long.
The fossa is a carnivorous mammal endemic to Madagascar and is the island’s largest predator. It is often compared to a small cougar, and it is a vital part of Madagascar’s ecosystem, preying on lemurs and other animals.
Another unique species is the aye-aye, a nocturnal lemur known for its peculiar appearance and its elongated middle finger, which it uses to extract insects from tree bark. The aye-aye is often considered one of the most unusual primates in the world.
Madagascar is also a haven for birds, with many species being endemic, such as the Madagascar fish eagle and the crested coua.
In terms of flora, Madagascar is home to six of the world’s eight species of baobab trees, which are iconic symbols of the island. The most famous of these is Grandidier’s baobab, recognized for its massive, cylindrical trunk and the unique shape of its branches, which resemble the roots of an upside-down tree.
The island’s plant life is incredibly diverse, with around 90% of its plant species being endemic. This includes a wide variety of orchids, euphorbias, and other exotic plants. The spiny forests in the southwest of the island are home to many unique plants adapted to arid conditions, such as the distinctive octopus tree (Didierea madagascariensis).
Madagascar’s coastal regions, particularly in the northwest, are lined with extensive mangrove forests. These ecosystems are crucial for protecting the coastline, supporting marine life, and maintaining the region’s biodiversity.
Agriculture:
Rice is a staple food in the Malagasy diet and is the most important crop in Madagascar. Rice paddies are widespread across the island, with cultivation taking place in both lowland areas and terraced fields in the highlands, particularly in regions like the central highlands around Antananarivo.
Madagascar is one of the world’s largest producers of vanilla, which is one of its most important export commodities. Vanilla is grown mainly in the northeastern region of the island, particularly in the Sava region. The production of vanilla is labor-intensive, as the vanilla orchid must be hand-pollinated and the pods require careful curing.
Coffee is another significant agricultural product, with coffee plantations concentrated mainly on the east coast. The country produces both Arabica and Robusta varieties, and coffee is a key export product.
Tapioca, derived from cassava, is another important crop in Madagascar. Cassava is a crucial food source, especially in rural areas, and is also used to produce starch, which is incorporated into many traditional dishes.
Livestock farming is widespread, with cattle being particularly important. Zebu cattle, a type of humped cattle, are highly valued in Malagasy culture and are used for meat, milk, and as draft animals. Goats, sheep, and poultry are also commonly raised.
Other significant agricultural exports include sugar cane, which is cultivated mainly in the northwestern part of the island, and cocoa, which is grown in the same regions as vanilla. Palm oil production exists but is less prominent compared to other cash crops.
In addition to these cash crops, Madagascar also produces a variety of fruits, vegetables, and spices, such as cloves, lychees, and pepper, which contribute to both local consumption and export markets.
Extraction of natural resources:
Madagascar is rich in natural resources, with significant reserves of chromite, which is a key raw material used in the production of stainless steel and other alloys. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of chromite, with deposits concentrated in the eastern part of the island, particularly in the Andriamena area.
Ilmenite, from which titanium dioxide is extracted, is another major mineral resource in Madagascar. The country is among the world’s largest producers of ilmenite, primarily mined from the mineral sands along the southeastern coast, near Fort Dauphin (also known as Tôlanaro). It is processed to produce titanium dioxide, which is used as a pigment in paints, plastics, and other products.
Gold is also mined in Madagascar, both on an industrial scale and by artisanal miners. The island has a long history of gold mining, with operations in various regions including the Mananjary and Maevatanana areas. However, much of the gold mining is done by small-scale, independent miners, which presents challenges in terms of regulation and environmental impact.
Nickel and cobalt are also important resources for Madagascar. The country hosts significant nickel and cobalt deposits, particularly in the Ambatovy mine, one of the largest lateritic nickel mines in the world. The mine is located in the eastern part of the island, near Moramanga, and is a major source of these metals, which are used in various industrial applications, including battery production.
Madagascar is also famous for its rich deposits of gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The island is one of the top producers of sapphires globally, with the most well-known deposits found in the southern region, particularly around Ilakaka. The gemstone industry is a significant contributor to the economy, although it is also associated with issues such as illegal mining and trade.
In addition to these minerals, Madagascar has deposits of other valuable resources, including graphite, which is used in various industrial applications, including batteries and lubricants. The country is one of the leading producers of high-quality graphite, with mines located in the southern and eastern regions.
Industry:
The textiles and clothing industry is one of the largest industrial sectors in Madagascar. The country has numerous textile factories, particularly in the Antananarivo and Antsirabe regions, that produce garments for export. These exports primarily target markets in Europe, the United States, and other regions. Madagascar benefits from preferential trade agreements, such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows duty-free access to the U.S. market for eligible products, including textiles and clothing.
Madagascar is also known for its wood and forest products industry. The country has rich forests, and wood is harvested for various purposes, including construction, furniture, and the production of artisanal crafts. However, the paper industry is relatively underdeveloped, and most paper products are imported. The exploitation of precious hardwoods, such as rosewood and ebony, has been a source of controversy due to concerns over illegal logging and deforestation, which threaten Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.
The country has several power plants that utilize a variety of energy sources, including hydroelectric, solar, and biomass. Hydroelectric power is the dominant source of electricity in Madagascar, with several dams located in the central highlands. Solar energy is increasingly being adopted, especially in remote areas that are not connected to the national grid. Biomass, particularly from agricultural residues, is also used for energy production in some regions. Despite these efforts, Madagascar’s energy infrastructure is still underdeveloped, and access to electricity remains limited in rural areas.
Fishing is indeed an important industry in Madagascar, with the country’s extensive coastline and rich marine resources providing a livelihood for many coastal communities. The fishing industry includes both artisanal and industrial fishing, with key products including tuna, shrimp, and various species of fish that are exported to international markets. Sustainable fishing practices are becoming increasingly important due to concerns over overfishing and the impact on marine ecosystems.
Livestock breeding is practiced in various parts of Madagascar, particularly in the central highlands, where cattle, goats, and sheep are raised. Meat processing is mainly done for local consumption, with a focus on beef, poultry, and pork. The dairy industry is also present, though on a smaller scale, producing milk, cheese, and other dairy products primarily for the domestic market. However, the industry faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, disease control, and the need for improved livestock management practices.
Services and other areas of the economy: tourism and services
Natural and historical attractions: the national parks of Isalo, Zahamena, Analamazaotra,and Tsingy de Bemaraha, the beaches, and Antananarivo
Madagascar is renowned for its numerous national parks and protected areas that offer exceptional opportunities for trekking, wildlife viewing, and exploring unique ecosystems. Notable national parks include Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, known for its population of indri lemurs, and Ranomafana National Park, which is famous for its rainforest and diverse wildlife. Isalo National Park offers stunning sandstone formations, canyons, and natural swimming pools, while Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its unique limestone formations called “tsingy” and is home to many endemic species.
Madagascar’s coastal areas provide excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, surfing, and fishing. The waters around the Nosy Be archipelago and the Île Sainte-Marie are particularly popular for marine activities. The coral reefs in these areas are rich in marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whales, which can be observed during certain seasons.
The country is also home to stunning beaches, especially on the east coast near Île Sainte-Marie and the west coast around Nosy Be and Morondava. The Avenue of the Baobabs near Morondava is one of Madagascar’s most iconic sights, featuring towering baobab trees that are over 800 years old. This location is particularly stunning at sunset, making it a popular destination for photography.
Madagascar’s waterfalls are another natural attraction, with Andringitra National Park being home to several waterfalls, including the Riandahy and Rianbavy falls. Anosy Lake near Fort Dauphin also features beautiful cascades surrounded by lush vegetation.
The island nation has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Traditional dances, music, and crafts are integral parts of Malagasy culture. The Rova of Antananarivo, also known as the Queen’s Palace, is a significant historical site that reflects the history of the Merina monarchy. Other notable historical sites include Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was the historic seat of the Merina Kingdom and is revered as a spiritual site.
Madagascar’s history is also reflected in its diverse architectural heritage, which includes traditional Malagasy houses, colonial-era buildings, and sacred tombs that are central to Malagasy cultural identity.
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Form of government: semi-presidential republic
Madagascar is a republic with a semi-presidential system of government. The country’s constitution establishes that the president is the head of state and holds significant executive authority. The president is elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term and may be re-elected only once. The president appoints the prime minister, who serves as the head of government and is responsible for running the government and managing state affairs. The prime minister, in turn, appoints the members of the cabinet, who manage various governmental departments.
Legislative power is vested in a bicameral parliament. The parliament consists of the National Assembly (Assemblée Nationale) and the Senate. Members of the National Assembly are elected for a five-year term through direct elections. The Senate is composed of senators elected for six-year terms, with half of the Senate renewed every three years. The Senate represents territorial communities and serves as an additional legislative body, providing oversight and input on legislation.
Local government in Madagascar is structured into regions, provinces, districts, and municipalities. Regional governors are appointed by the president and are responsible for the administration and implementation of national policies at the regional level.
The judicial system in Madagascar is independent and consists of several levels of courts, including the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court, and lower courts such as appellate courts and tribunals. The Constitutional Court has the authority to review the constitutionality of laws and acts as a guardian of the constitution. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority for civil, criminal, and administrative cases. The judicial system operates under a framework that combines elements of both civil law and customary law, reflecting the country’s legal heritage and diverse cultural practices.
Capital city: Antananarivo
Antananarivo is located on a series of hills at an altitude of approximately 1,276 meters (4,186 feet) above sea level, giving it a distinctive hilly terrain. The city overlooks the surrounding valley and the Ikopa River, providing scenic views of the central highlands of Madagascar. Antananarivo is situated in the central part of the island, making it the largest city and the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country.
The city has a rich history, and its original name was “Analamanga,” which means “Blue Forest” in the Malagasy language. Antananarivo was founded in the early 17th century as a fortified royal settlement by King Andrianjaka, the ruler of the Merina Kingdom. It later became the capital of the Merina Kingdom, solidifying its status as the political center of Madagascar.
During the French colonial era, Antananarivo was designated as the capital of French Madagascar, and it played a central role in the administration and governance of the colony. The city’s architecture reflects its historical significance, with a mix of traditional Malagasy and colonial-era buildings.
Key sights in Antananarivo include the Rova of Antananarivo (Queen’s Palace), which is a historic royal complex that served as the residence of the Merina monarchs. The palace offers panoramic views of the city and is an important cultural and historical landmark. Another notable site is the Andafiavaratra Palace, which now functions as a museum displaying artifacts from the Merina Kingdom. Additionally, the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Gardens are popular attractions that showcase Madagascar’s unique flora and fauna.
Antananarivo also features vibrant markets such as the Analakely Market, where visitors can experience the bustling atmosphere and purchase local crafts, textiles, and produce.
The city has a population of about 4 050 000.
Area: 587 041 km2 (226 658 square miles)
Population: 29 612 000 (2022 estimate)
The population of Madagascar is composed of several main ethnic groups, each with its own language, culture, and traditions. The largest ethnic group is the Merina, who primarily inhabit the central highlands, including the capital, Antananarivo. The Betsileo, another highland group, are also significant. The Betsimisaraka are predominantly located along the eastern coast, while the Antandroy and Sakalava are found in the southern and western regions, respectively. Other notable ethnic groups include the Antemoro, Bara, and Mahafaly.
Most of the population practices a syncretic religion that blends traditional Malagasy beliefs, such as ancestor worship, with Christianity. Christianity is the predominant religion in Madagascar, with a significant portion of the population adhering to either Roman Catholicism or Protestantism. There is also a smaller Muslim minority, particularly among the coastal communities.
Malagasy, which is of Austronesian origin, is the official language and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. French, a legacy of Madagascar’s colonial past, is also an official language and is widely used in government, education, and business.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 3
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- Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve (1990) – This nature reserve contains a unique karst limestone landscape and mangrove swamps, known for its distinctive needle-shaped limestone formations, known as “tsingy,” and a rich biodiversity, including many endemic species.
- Royal Hill of Ambohimanga (2001) – This is a historic royal city, which has been a sacred place for the Malagasy people for over 500 years. It served as the spiritual and political capital of the Merina kingdom and includes royal burial sites and sacred areas.
- Rainforests of the Atsinanana (2007) – This site consists of six national parks across eastern Madagascar, protecting the island’s remaining rainforests. These forests are critical for the preservation of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, including many species of lemurs, birds, and plants that are found nowhere else in the world.
National parks: 24
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- Amber Mountain National Park
- Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
- Andohahela National Park
- Andringitra National Park
- Ankarafantsika National Park
- Baie de Baly National Park
- Isalo National Park
- Kirindy Mitea National Park
- Lokobe National Park
- Mananara Nord National Park
- Marojejy National Park
- Marolambo National Park
- Masoala National Park
- Midongy du sud National Park
- Nosy Hara National Park
- Nosy Tanikely National Park
- Nosy Ve-Androka National Park
- Ranomafana National Park
- Sahamalaza-Iles Radama National Park
- Tsimanampetsotse National Park
- Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
- Tsingy de Namoroka National Park
- Zahamena National Park
- Zombitse-Vohibasia National Park
