AFRICA

Contributions from three international experts The workshop on capacity building for women in politics was opened by François Butedi, RPEDEM's senior technical advisor, on the morning of 23 July 2024.&nbsp;With funding from the Peace Building Fund (PBF) and Australian Aid, UNDP Madagascar and its partners brought together around thirty associations and platforms for the promotion of women in politics, the fight against gender-based violence and the defense of women's rights.&nbsp;Participants from all over the country, including the “ Plateforme des Femmes en Politique de l'Océan Indien”, PFOI, the Observatoire SAFIDY, the African Women Leadership Network Madagascar, AWLN, the “Commission Électorale Nationale Indépendante”, CENI, &nbsp;and the Conseil National des Femmes à Madagascar, CNFM, benefited from the expertise of three international experts. These included Ms. Diffo TSAFACK Georgette Elise, a Cameroonian expert on gender and inclusion, who stressed the importance of women getting involved in the country's political scene. The aim of the workshop is to strengthen social cohesion, but above all to prevent electoral conflicts. In addition, a discussion session with Mr. IDRISSA Traoré, a Burkina Faso expert in international electoral law, highlighted the application of international legal instruments.&nbsp; Techniques of good advocacy During these three days, the place of women in politics was much discussed, especially with the sharing of experiences by Ms. Saraha RABEHARISOA, Member of the Group of Women Leaders for the Prevention of Electoral Conflicts. She explained, “You have to work, learn the legal texts, because only work can help us move forward as women, especially in the political arena”. And Dr Lalaina Fidisoa, a colonel physician attached to the High Constitutional Court (HCC), followed suit, describing her career in the Malagasy armed forces. The participants then had a video-conference session with Ms. Valérie Mengue, from UN Women Cameroon, on the strategy for mobilizing resources for women candidates.&nbsp;This was followed by Mr. Robert GERENGE, UNDP Regional Electoral Adviser, based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, who spoke about electoral conflict prevention and electoral processes in Africa. Mr. Butedi, for his part, presented the techniques of good advocacy and its best practices. According to Ms. DAMY Govina, representing the Indian Ocean Platform of Women in Politics, PFOI, at the workshop, it is important for women to contribute to Madagascar's development, and politics is one of the keys to this contribution. It should be noted that end-of-workshop certificates were distributed to the participants in the presence of the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative ad interim in Madagascar, Mr. Daniel GBETNKOM. Govina DAMY Independent Reporter 01 August 2024 Antananarivo, Madagascar.&nbsp;Thanks to our collaborators&nbsp;Photo: UNDP Madagascar.

For Madagascar, the electoral period continues with the communal elections to be held in November, if the timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission, CENI, does not change. However, with a participation rate of 1.9% for women candidates in the last legislative elections, UNDP Madagascar, through the RPEDEM, “Renforcement des Processus Electoral et Démocratique à Madagascar”, project, in collaboration with MAHASAKY, is organizing a capacity-building workshop for Malagasy women leaders in leadership, communication and advocacy, from 23 to 25 July 2024, at Ilo Hôtel Ambohidratrimo, Antananarivo. 

UNDP Madagascar, Supporting the political participation of Malagasy women 

An artist with instruments From the moment he entered the music scene in 1970 with his first album, “Ianao irery”, Simon Randria established himself as a craftsman of melody and text. His 1972 album, the cornerstone of his career, reveals a bold style, blending the influences of American blues with the richness of traditional Malagasy Kaiamba. A master of several instruments, Simon Randria sculpted a music in which Western and local sounds harmonized with rare sophistication.&nbsp;During his lifetime, he was a sought-after collaborator, sharing his creations with many renowned artists, such as Marion, famous for “Ianao irery”, the group Johary, Solo Andrianasolo and others. His spellbinding, innovative music has resonated not only in Madagascar, but also internationally, touching several generations. Titles such as “Mba rahoviana ré”, “Aoke aoke etsy” and “Mitsangana” regularly rocked the Malagasy radio waves, consolidating his stature as a key artist. The news of his death made the rounds on social networks, leaving a huge void in the music world. His legacy is honoured by Solo Andrianasolo's cover of his iconic song, “Mba rahoviana ré?”, an ode to the poetic depth and creativity of Simom Randria. His ability to fuse romantic blues with subtle instrumentation and evocative lyrics has made him a true master of his craft. The end of another era In addition to his musical achievements, Simon Randria was a fervent defender of Malagasy culture. Awarded the titles of Commander of the National Order and the Order of Arts, Letters and Culture, his career reflects a deep sensitivity to the social realities of the 70s in Madagascar. His works reflect the tensions and hopes of his time, capturing the very essence of his artistic and cultural commitment. At the age of 70, Simon Randria leaves behind an exceptional musical legacy. After being laid to rest at the Gymnase couvert d'Ankorondrano, his burial took place at Ambodiafontsy Ampitatafika last Wednesday, following a religious ceremony at the Catholic church in Antanimena. His departure marks the end of an era, but his timeless works will continue to bear witness to his artistic genius and his deep commitment to Madagascan music, ensuring that his influence will live on in the musical pantheon.&nbsp;Lucas RahajaniainaIndependent Reporter 12 August 2024 Antananarivo, Madagascar. Our condolences to the family of Simon Randria&nbsp;Photo: Google. &nbsp;

On 10 August 2024, Madagascar mourned the loss of a pillar of its music scene: Simon Randria, the emblematic guitarist and songwriter of the 70s, passed away. Born on 28 October 1954, Simon Randria shaped the musical landscape of his native island with his virtuoso fingers and fertile imagination, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Malagasy blues and funk.



Simon Randria, the Twilight of a Malagasy blues and funk Legend

Independent Reporter: How would you assess biodiversity in Madagascar? Prof. Jonah Ratsimbazafy: Our biodiversity is unique and can be exploited to develop the country, just in terms of tourism. But there is ‘endemic’ pressure from bush fires and a lack of protection for our protected areas.&nbsp;The value of our biodiversity is high, but if there is poor governance in the management of these resources, it is not at all productive, especially when we see the illegal trafficking of turtles and lemurs. But let's not forget that there is an endemic risk to a large part of our resources. I would also like to point out that Madagascar represents 0.02% of the planet, whereas 5% of biodiversity is found in Madagascar alone. The other difference is that, as I'll never stop repeating, Madagascar doesn't have the Eiffel Tower like France, or the pyramids like the Egyptians, or the Great Wall of China, let alone the Statue of Liberty like New York.&nbsp;But we do have baobabs and lemurs. Good management of our resources in terms of biodiversity is more than enough to develop this country through tourism without exploiting our extractive resources. Costa Rica, for example, does not have the same resources as ours, but makes 1.9 billion dollars a year from tourism.&nbsp;The same goes for Rwanda, which has only a few species of gorilla that it shares with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The country is popular with tourists because of the safety conditions. Cleanliness is also a sine qua non for developing tourism. Unfortunately, this is not the case for Antananarivo. Cleanliness must be legalized by law and go beyond ‘technical gestures’.&nbsp;We need to enhance our identity in symbolic ways, like erecting a statue of lemurs at Ivato airport, for example. The fact that the ox is the animal that symbolizes our country is wrong, it is lemurs that characterize it. I. R.: There has been another tragic event, namely the fire that spread from Isalo Park. What do you think of the overall policy to deal with this situation? Prof. J.R.: I'd like to respond to certain comments that play down the facts, that it's only part of the Park that's affected, and that the damage is not as devastating. I'm not going to go into the details of this lax attitude. Let's just stress that bush fires have always existed. So the question is, why has there never been a policy or strategy to combat bushfires?&nbsp;Or why haven't water points been set up in strategic places where fires are likely to start?&nbsp;In our sectors, such as Maromizaha, we have zero fires, zero charcoal, because all illegal movements are controlled and managed. I.R.: Given the effectiveness of your system, why haven't your protection measures been applied by the government in other protected areas? Prof. J.R.: All the successive leaders have never had a policy for preserving our biodiversity. I'm tired of hearing people talk about patriotism, while behind the scenes they're illegally exporting gold and so on. I.R.: Recently, at Ivato airport, the Thai authorities attempted to export several turtles and lemurs. How can you take radical action against this phenomenon? Professor J.R.: I would advocate zero tolerance. The problem is that the Minister who at one point said “zero tolerance” has now been replaced. In other words, the solutions exist, but the political will to implement them is lacking.&nbsp;The good thing about what happened in Thailand is that it created a buzz, unlike what might have happened here, where the issue would have been swept under the carpet. I.R.: Why has this issue been swept under the carpet in Madagascar? Prof. J.R: Well, the facts are there.&nbsp;We've never had any “big shots” legally involved in rosewood exports; it's always the little guys like the drivers who get charged last.&nbsp;On 13 and 14 August, there was a forum on corruption and wildlife trafficking. The President of the Senate was there, and there was a fiery speech as usual, but a few days later, as you saw, there was an attempt to export turtles. The reason is simple: they continue to do it because they are sure that someone will intervene on their behalf. Yet Malagasy law provides for fines of between 100 million ariary and 2 billion ariary for those who attack our biodiversity or our animals in our protected areas. However, I have never seen it applied. In March 2023, an individual was caught in the act of shooting a lemur, but only received a fine of 200,000ar - approx. 50euros - and a 1-year suspended sentence. In short, these measures are weak, and this is what encourages criminals to continue, because the State is weak. I really hope that ‘environmental crimes’ will be classified as such in Madagascar, and that they will be tried in Thailand. In China, for example, killing a panda is tantamount to a death sentence. I.R.: How can we make better use of our resources in this case? Prof. J.R: &nbsp;Still in China, they have leased the Panda for 800,000 euros a year. I suggest we do the same here, charge for any visit to the baobabs. Just look at the water. Before, people used to take their showers from pumps.&nbsp;Now, with the scarcity and cost of water, nobody dares to do the same. I.R.: Can you confirm that our biodiversity resources alone are more than enough to boost this country's development? And what would be the ideal policy for preserving our endemic species? Prof. J.R.: I can only confirm that we need good management and good governance, which is not currently the case. The solutions have always been there. Thirty-six protected areas are awaiting approval from the Ministry for the management of protected areas. I don't understand what the problem is.&nbsp;Are we prioritizing the exploitation of extractive resources? Fortunately, we also have other parts of 123 protected areas, both marine and terrestrial, under the management of various non-governmental organizations, such as the Vondron'Olona Ifotony association and Madagascar National Park. Does the political will exist? Let me remind you that the state budget for the environment is 2%, and for research it's 0.014%.&nbsp;Which means nothing at all, and that's another reason why I'm exasperated by political speeches that claim to be patriotic when the action doesn't follow. I.R.: You mentioned tourism earlier, but we have seen that tourism is evolving and growing, with 259,850 arrivals in 2023, up on the previous year. Pr. J.R.: Before boasting about such statistics, it's important to make a comparison; in six months, Réunion has reached 600,000, even though it doesn't have the same resources as us. It would also be wise to look at Mauritius, which has the same surface area as Antananarivo. 200,000 tourists are not much when you have 5,000 km of beach and, above all, Madagascar is the 5th largest island in the world.&nbsp;It's very easy to get to 1 million tourists, with the Chinese alone with good marketing. But as long as our infrastructure doesn't meet standards and safety, cleanliness and preservation conditions are not up to scratch, it won't happen. I.R.: Is education the cause or a solution to this phenomenon, which is having a profound effect on our biodiversity? Prof. J.R.: The school enrolment rate or the education system is low, which is why we hear the retort, “we're not concerned, it doesn't change anything in our lives”, from some members of the public. There's a link between this and poverty in Madagascar.&nbsp;And finally, when we say that 60% to 64% of Madagascar's population is made up of young people, these young people represent a “FORCE” if we know how to direct them. But they will be a problem if we don't, either one or the other. We need to guide their future, because if we don't, they'll use this strength for trivial things like drugs or delinquency. Maurice Ranjalahy Independent Reporter &nbsp;30 August 2024 Antananarivo, Madagascar. Thanks to Professor Jonah Ratsimbazafy Photo: Andry Jacques Bruel/ Independent Reporter-IR/ Madagascar/2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

With a biodiversity that is unique in the world, Madagascar attracts the curiosity of experts in the green sector. However, according to experts such as Professor Jonah Ratsimbazafy, President of the International Primatological Society (IPS) and co-founder of GERP (Groupe d'Etudes et de Recherches sur les primates de Madagascar), this wealth has been left to die. GERP is a legal association that works to research, raise awareness and denounce primates. It was founded in 1994 by Professor Rakotosamimanana, when Pr. Ratsimbazafy was still a student, and is now 30 years old. The group has around 300 members, including Malagasy and other nationalities. The Association manages various protected areas, such as Maromizaha, in the Sofia region. During these years of action and activity, GERP has contributed to the search for new species of lemur, and the primatologist has even given his name to the smallest lemur in 2020, “Microcebus jonahi”.

Professor Jonah Ratsimbazafy: “The state budget for the environment is 2%, and for research it's 0.014%.  Which means nothing at all.”

An evolving oral heritage Madagascar is renowned for its ancestral oral tradition, in which the spoken word serves as a vehicle for passing on knowledge, traditions and legends. Traditional ceremonies such as *famadihana* (return of the ancestors) or marriage proposals are occasions where speeches play a central role in preserving community values. However, with the arrival of modernity and the influence of the media, Malagasy public speaking has undergone a transformation. Today, interest in public speaking is growing, thanks to conferences, debates and competitions. Younger generations, through educational establishments and vocational training courses, are now embracing contemporary public speaking techniques. Like a rising star on the international stage. Rakitra Sederantsoa Andrianasoloniaina is a case in point. At the age of 20, Rakitra brilliantly qualified for the final of the second edition of the Eloquentia international public speaking championship, scheduled for 2025. During the semi-final on 30 August at the Cité internationale de la langue française in Paris, he captivated the audience with a powerful speech on the theme “Can we get used to anything?” Opening his speech with the word “Formidable” and a strong intonation, he won over the judges and the audience. The Fédération des Clubs d'Art Oratoire (FCO): a pillar of success An extraordinary career. Rakitra shared his enthusiasm in a chat on Messenger: “I've taken part in various public speaking competitions, but the Eloquentia competition was always my dream, because it's recognized as the most prestigious in the world. That's why I decided to take part”. Rakitra's career has been marked by a number of notable successes, including victory at the American Corner Speech Contest 2023, the Université Catholique de Madagascar's Olympiade des orateurs 2023, and the Mock Trial organized by the public speaking and debate club at the Faculty of Law and Political Science. Rakitra added: “This competition has been a huge challenge, giving me the opportunity to discover the talents of other young people and their commitment. I also had the chance to take part in the quarter-finals by videoconference”. For him, the aim was to test his skills, demonstrate that Madagascar can excel at this level and proudly represent his country. In doing so, he is proving that public speaking is deeply rooted in Malagasy traditions and inspires young people, even the timidest. Rakitra's success is also due to the efforts of the Fédération des Clubs d'Art Oratoire (FCO), founded by Tambiniaina David, a renowned public speaker and former national champion. This federation, which supports young people in international competitions, plays a crucial role in selecting Malagasy representatives for prestigious events such as the Debate in The Hague and Eloquentia. Towards more professional public speaking According to Tambiniaina David during a telephone discussion: “We created this federation to help young people take part in international competitions. We started in Antananarivo, but our aim is to extend our support to other universities in all regions of Madagascar. We select representatives for the major competitions, while leaving aside those organized by the AUF”.&nbsp;He adds: “In the past, Malagasy speakers were limited to the Indian Ocean Champion, which was our only reference. Today, thanks to our young talent, we're aiming for world-class status. For example, last year we had ten students who took part in international competitions, but we all failed to reach the semi-finals. This year, we became world champions in the Hague Debate thanks to the team from the Catholic University of Madagascar, which is also first in the world ranking of public speaking clubs. We also have Rakitra, who has been selected for the Eloquentia final”. In short, public speaking, which is captivating for its leadership development in young people, requires courage and mastery. However, as Tambiniaina David points out, the main challenge remains the separation between the academic and professional worlds: “I was national champion in the academic field, but I've encountered difficulties in the professional world. Speaking skills are crucial, but there's a big difference between the academic world and the professional world. My wish is to see public speaking developed further at university and professional level, so that young people no longer encounter difficulties on the job market. Academic training should gradually become more professional.” For the future, the FCO plans to extend its activities to the whole of Madagascar, offering more opportunities for young talent across the country. This initiative not only marks a revival of public speaking in Madagascar, but also reveals its growing potential on the international stage.&nbsp;Lucas RahajaniainaIndependent Reporter 30 August 2024 Antananarivo, Madagascar. Thanks to our contributors Photo courtesy of Rakitra Sederantsoa/ Independent Reporter-IR/ Madagascar/2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rakitra Sederantsoa Andrianasoloniaina's journey to the Eloquentia Championship reveals an age-old tradition that has been brought to the world stage. In Madagascar, the art of public speaking, essential for developing communication and persuasion, is undergoing a fascinating renaissance. This discipline, long on the back burner, is now becoming an increasingly high-profile subject, illustrating a remarkable transition between cultural heritage and modern innovation.

Public speaking in Madagascar, a renaissance with international resonance

A small but happy crowd As soon as the doors opened at 3pm, the excitement was palpable. The long queues, even at 7.30pm, bore witness to the public's enthusiasm. The evening began with DJ Natoo taking to the stage, attracting a varied audience from youngsters to families. However, the smaller-than-expected audience did raise some questions. The price of tickets and the late hour may have limited access for some spectators. Before the headliners arrived, the stage was given over to young local talent. Three artists, selected from the Show Tremplin Héritage competition organized by international organizers Nas Production, opened the evening, including Bab's, a locally-renowned rapper, Ismaël, a talent who revealed himself on social networks, and Yvanniat, daughter of the late singer Tah Tence. Their performances prepared the audience for the main event. Nas Production, founded by Nasser Goulamhoussen, a Malagasy active in international showbiz while retaining his roots, is a booking and event production agency. It produces, exports and broadcasts contemporary music shows around the world. The agency has transformed the western part of the stadium into a luminous space, demonstrating the professionalism needed to welcome these two international stars. The agency has already brought these French-speaking artists to Madagascar before.&nbsp;Another Malagasy talent was also revealed during the show, namely the musician, guitarist, pianist, composer and arranger Mickaël Mita Joseph. He has put Madagascar on the international map. Based in Paris for over six years now, he has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Tayc, Yohan Trade Union, Beverly, RH, Claudy Siar, Jimmy Sissoko, NKA, Mika and Davis, Shyn, Denise and Rim-Ka. So, at Dadju and Tayc's ‘Héritage’ concert, he was their pianist.&nbsp; A lover's duo At 9.30pm, the eagerly-awaited duo made their entrance in an intoxicating atmosphere. Their first songs, such as “Apprends-moi”, “Tout essayé” and “Contrât”, instantly captivated the audience. Their voices resonated beyond expectations, transporting the audience into a moment of communion. Tayc quickly engaged the audience by declaring on stage: “Tonight, let’s forget all our worries, today we're going to party and sing with you”, reinforcing the festive atmosphere. Tayc's dance performances also added a festive dimension to the show.&nbsp;The concert lasted an hour and a half, alternating between Tayc and Dadju. The two artists performed a succession of hits, including “Jaloux”, “Bob Marley” and “Je dis oui”, keeping the audience enthralled right to the end. At the same time, the evening showcased Malagasy influencers, who helped to promote the event. Their presence on stage also strengthened the bond between the artists and the audience. Finally, the album's promotional concert, entitled “Héritage”, not only celebrated the music of Dadju and Tayc, but also provided a showcase for Malagasy talent, while revealing the accessibility challenges faced by some fans. The evening proved that Madagascar is a thriving music scene, ready to host such international events.&nbsp;Lucas RahajaniainaIndependent Reporter12 October 2024Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo : Andry Jacques Bruel/ Independent Reporter-IR/Madagascar/2024

A landmark show highlighting young Malagasy talent. On the evening of Friday 11 October, the Barea Mahamasina stadium in Antananarivo, Madagascar vibrated to the rhythm of the "Héritage" concert, bringing together thousands of fans for an outstanding evening with French artists Dadju and Tayc. The show, which has already conquered 32 countries, confirmed the international rise of these two French-speaking stars.

Héritage’ album tour , Dadju and Tayc set the Barea Mahamasina stadium alight

Public outreach and scientific development Organized by the Haikintana association, in collaboration with the Société Astronomique de France, the Institut Français de Madagascar, the Alliances Françaises (Antsirabe, Antsiranana, Mahajanga), École du Monde Madagascar, the Institut Supérieur de Technologie de Diego, and the African Initiative for Planetary and Space Sciences, this year's festival is expanding significantly, with simultaneous activities in four major cities: Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Antsirabe, and Diego-Suarez. “The objective of this 3rd edition is to democratize access to astronomy and space sciences, especially for Malagasy youth and the general public,” stated Mializo Razanakoto, founding president of the Haikintana association, during an interview at the Institut Français de Madagascar in Analakely on Monday, June 23. “It's also about fostering encounters with researchers, astrophysicists, and enthusiasts in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.” Born in 2023 from a partnership between the Alliance Française de Mahajanga and Haikintana, the festival quickly gained recognition. This 2025 edition marks a turning point: it will be the first astronomy festival with an international focus ever organized in Madagascar, according to its founder. Daytime and nighttime observations, conferences, educational workshops, screenings, quizzes, and scientific shows will punctuate these three days. The 2025 edition stands out with a reinforced scientific component: a specialized training course on the use of robotic telescopes is being held prior to the festival. It takes place at the PC Mayonnaise campus, at École du Monde, where Madagascar's Robotic Observatory is located. “This initiative aims to train young Malagasy astronomers in the basics of astronomy and the use of remotely controllable telescopes,” explained Sylvain Bouley, Vice-President of the Société Astronomique de France. This action is part of the African Initiative in Planetarium and Space Science, a Pan-African scientific cooperation program aimed at structuring astronomy research on the continent, with Madagascar as a central hub. African Astronomers in Immersion﻿Since June 25, six African astronomers from Tunisia, Morocco, Senegal, Togo, and Côte d'Ivoire have been undergoing training in Madagascar. Supervised notably by Arnaud Leroy, a trainer from France, they are familiarizing themselves with image acquisition and analysis within the framework of research projects. These researchers will also be involved during the festival, speaking in the various cities alongside international experts. “This dual pedagogical and cultural component illustrates the desire to disseminate astronomy in Africa by leveraging technological tools and regional cooperation,” emphasized Sylvain Bouley. For David Baratou, a researcher at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), this first training in Madagascar represents an important step. “The goal is for these astronomers, once they return to their countries, to be able to remotely control this telescope and contribute to astronomy research. This is the first edition of such a program, but we hope it will lead to others,” he confided during an interview at IFM Analakely. David Baratou, who leads a Pan-African training and research network, insists on the necessity of sustained support. “The idea is to continue this support in various forms. Africa has potential in astronomy; we must help it structure its skills.” Beyond the challenges of scientific cooperation, the festival also aims to inspire vocations.“Young Malagasy people are very talented,” observed Professor and Astrophysicist Charles Ratsifaritana, owner of the “Astro” Astronomy observation center in Andoharonofotsy. “The problem isn't that they can't do science, but that many teachers don't know how to transmit that passion,” he added. By placing youth at the heart of its initiative, “Madagascar Under the Stars” aims to reconcile science, pedagogy, and popular curiosity, under the benevolent light of the stars.&nbsp;Lucas RahajaniainaIndependent ReporterJune 29, 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo: Andry Jacques Bruel/Copyright/Independent Reporter-IR / Madagascar / 2025&nbsp;

A national event with international reach, combining scientific popularization, Pan-African cooperation, and astronomical training for Malagasy youth. From July 4 to 6, 2025, Madagascar will host the 3rd edition of the “Madagascar Under the Stars” Astronomy Festival, a unique event blending scientific outreach, the training of young African astronomers, and public cultural activities.



Madagascar under the Stars: An Astronomy Festival to make Africa shine

Global recognition This prize, which each year honors scientists committed to sustainable development, brought together candidates from 30 countries across five continents. Only six finalists were selected: two Americans, two Indians, one Belgian, and one Malagasy. The ceremony took place in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, September 10, 2025. In a message shared on his Facebook page, Professor Jonah Ratsimbazafy expressed his reflections. Although he did not receive the top award, he spoke with emotion about his gratitude and pride in representing Madagascar at such a level: “I had already said that, regardless of the outcome, I had to speak about it, because it was a commitment I had made. Last night, my heart was still a little heavy, because until the very last minute, I was hoping to be the winner. Even though the achievements of all the finalists were presented, I felt that mine stood out a little.” During his presentation, Jonah Ratsimbazafy emphasized an often-overlooked approach: the involvement of local communities in conservation efforts. Unlike other finalists whose work focused on species in captivity or in zoos, the Malagasy researcher highlighted the realities on the ground in Madagascar, where conservation necessarily depends on local populations: “In Madagascar, this is an undeniable reality. How could I not insist on it?” Although the main prize was officially awarded to Dr. Dudzinski, the closing remarks of Global Humane Society CEO Dr. Robin carried another meaning: “The winner of the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling Prize is Dr. Kathleen…” he began, before correcting himself: “…the six winners of 2025.” All six finalists will receive the same certificate of recognition. A commitment that continues An international documentary and a book dedicated to the “heroes of conservation” will soon highlight their work, spreading their messages well beyond the ceremony. With humility and determination, the researcher now chooses to look ahead: “It is time to return and resume research and conservation work in Antananarivo. A page turns here, but life goes on.” Jonah Ratsimbazafy’s journey reflects the strength of perseverance, scientific dedication, and fidelity to deep values. As a representative of the Global South, he embodies a vital voice in international conservation debates. Through this global recognition, it is Madagascar as a whole that is honored. Created to reward outstanding contributions to species conservation and sustainable development, the Wolfgang Kiessling Prize includes a grant of USD 80,000 to support research. It is awarded each year to one or more scientists whose work has a direct impact on the environment and ecosystems worldwide. Kanto KennedyIndependent ReporterSeptember 11, 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo: Andry Jacques Bruel/Copyright/Independent Reporter-IR/Madagascar/2025

The prestigious 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling Prize, awarded by the Global Humane Society, was this year presented to Dr. Kathleen M. Dudzinski in recognition of her remarkable contributions to species conservation. But behind this victory also lies the inspiring story of Dr. Jonah Ratsimbazafy, Malagasy primatologist, selected among the six international finalists of this edition.



Finalist of the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling Prize:  Jonah Ratsimbazafy, the Malagasy face of global conservation

A Well-Planned and Anticipated Organization Jean Michel Ramaroson, President of the Malagasy Basketball Federation (FMBB), confirmed that preparations for the continental championship began as early as September 2025. Speaking on the national TV channel TVM, he stated that Madagascar has full mastery of organizing this type of tournament, recalling that this will be the third time the island hosts a major 3x3 basketball competition at home. According to him, all technical, logistical, and security measures have been meticulously implemented to ensure a smoothly run event that meets FIBA Africa standards and the expectations of participating nations. Infrastructure upgrades, team coordination, and hospitality have been top priorities for the federation, which is determined once again to showcase Madagascar’s ability to host major continental sporting events. In total, 24 national teams-14 men’s and 10 women’s-will travel to Antananarivo. A Strong and Wide-Open Men’s Field The men’s tournament promises to be particularly competitive this year. Fourteen teams have secured their spots for the 2025 edition, illustrating the rapid growth of 3x3 basketball across Africa. Alongside regular contenders such as Madagascar, Egypt, Algeria, Benin, Rwanda, and Uganda, new and ambitious nations will make their debut, including Seychelles, Zambia, Tunisia, and Botswana. Teams from Central and Southern Africa, such as DR Congo and Kenya, will aim to break into the top contenders, while Comoros and Somalia, currently rebuilding their sports programs, will attempt to surprise. This expanded lineup promises closely contested games and a visibly rising level of competition. The most anticipated matchup remains the clash between Madagascar and Egypt, two of the most successful teams on the continent and clear favorites for the title. A Women’s Tournament Driven by High Ambitions On the women’s side, ten of the most consistent national teams in the discipline will take part. The Ankoay, defending champions and currently ranked 8th in Africa, will meet their usual rivals: Egypt, Rwanda, Uganda, DR Congo, Kenya, Tunisia, and Benin. Comoros and Botswana, both showing significant progress, complete the roster. In the continental hierarchy, Kenya, the current leader, stands out as the main threat, closely followed by Egypt, another formidable team. But the Malagasy squad, boosted by home support, is clearly aiming to retain its crown. The team has participated in several international tournaments this year, strengthening its cohesion and experience ahead of this competition. Given the rapid development of 3x3 basketball in Africa, the tournament promises to be unpredictable: many teams now possess the technical level needed to spring surprises. With home advantage, a passionate crowd, and two titles to defend, Madagascar enters this FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup 2025 with exceptional motivation. The event promises not only to be a highlight of the African sporting calendar, but also a source of national pride and a showcase of Malagasy organizational expertise. The Ankoay will have a prime opportunity to reaffirm their status as one of the leading references in African 3x3 basketball. Spectators can expect an exhilarating show. Kanto KennedyIndependent ReporterDecember 3, 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo: FIBA / Independent Reporter-IR / Madagascar 2025

Madagascar is set to vibrate to the rhythm of 3x3 basketball from December 5 to 7, 2025, as it hosts the FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup at the Mahamasina Palais des Sports. The event, eagerly awaited by Malagasy fans, marks another major milestone for a country already crowned twice as African champion in this spectacular and fast-growing discipline.



FIBA 3x3 Africa Cup 2025: Madagascar Fully Ready for the Continental Event Today

This would be a turning point of Madagascar political history. But, many abstainers were registred.

This would be a turning point of Madagascar political history. But, many abstainers were registred.

Last 16 November, the Malagasy people went to the polls

Proximity to African youth The largest platform for meetings, sharing and exchanges between young people from the African continent will make its big entrance this year in Madagascar.&nbsp;From 24 to 30 November 2025, the Ministry of Youth and Sports says it is ready for this challenge that will make Madagascar one of the great pillars of the promotion of youth in Africa.&nbsp;Indeed, YouthConnekt is a program aimed at empowering young women and men in their professional development and bringing together all the African youth for a better future for the mother continent. It was launched in 2012 in Rwanda by the Rwandan president Paul Kagame. With a population of 226 million young people aged 15-24, Africa has the youngest population in the world.&nbsp;And the objective of this event is to connect African youth to foster a socio-economic transformation across the continent.&nbsp;The shared vision of integrating African youth into sustainable development and human capital development. In this case, the executive committee of the Youth Congress Africa 2025 Summit in Madagascar has already been active since 30 January. According to the Minister of Youth and Sport, MJS, MARSON MOUSTAPHA Abdulah: “The goal is to properly organize this event so that it becomes the largest summit in the history of Youth Connect Africa.” Between $1 million and $2 million Overall, 15,000 to 25,000 young people are expected on the Big Island for this edition. The programme includes conferences, cultural and sporting events, exchanges at emblematic places such as Kianja Barea Mahamasina, Ankoay Gymnasium, and other sites to be defined, according to the event organizers. These activities will be aimed at adding dimension to this 8th edition, added the Minister. “It will be a memorable and attractive stay, so that visitors will want to come back later,” he pronounced. In addition, to carry out this organization, a funding of several billion is necessary. “The organization of the YouthConnekt Africa Summit requires a budget of between $1 million and $2 million. However, with our national and international partners, this will not pose a major problem,” said the Minister. Nine months before the event, $400,000 in funding is already available, he said. As a host country for an international event such as the YouthConnekt Africa Summit, Madagascar will have many economic benefits to gain if it takes advantage of them. Great opportunity for the country In this context, the Ministry of Youth and Sports is considering promoting tourism, craft industries and gastronomy during the event. He encourages young Malagasy people to be dynamic, creative and to take advantage of this international showcase: “Do not hesitate to get in touch with those who can offer you interesting opportunities, especially in terms of professional relationships.” In addition, the event also aims to open new doors for the Malagasy economy and promote social development. Many new jobs will be created in various sectors of activity.&nbsp;National consultation and awareness-raising will be organized so that all young Malagasy, regardless of their region, can take advantage of this opportunity. “Who knows, maybe one or more Malagasy young people will become an ambassador for YouthConnekt Africa?” concluded the minister. Kanto KennedyIndependent reporter05 February 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators &nbsp;Photo: Andry Jacques Bruel/Copyright/Independent Reporter-IR/Madagascar/2025

From 24 to 30 November 2025, Madagascar will host the YouthConnekt Africa Summit. It will be the largest pan-African event for youth, as promised by the Ministry of Youth and Sport on 30 January at Tanora HQ in Andraharo.

YouthConnekt Africa Summit in November 2025, 15,000 and 25,000 expected young people in Madagascar  

Between culture and system. Indeed, the informal sector has never been seen as an illegal system, but over time, the country's historical events have changed the daily lives of the Malagasy, who have become accustomed to the old forms of bartering. Despite the State's efforts to bring all monetary activity within the bounds of legality, the informal sector has always played a major role in the country's market. Overwhelmed by the difficulties of daily life, the little people start to undertake their own way to survive, in various commercial fields. Without official statistics, according to one of the street vendors in Behoririka, a popular district of Madagascar's capital, nine out of ten Malagasy come from a family of vendors. It's a deeply rooted culture, but one that's oriented towards the liberal economy. From this point of view, a Malagasy is often born with the desire to succeed, whatever the means at hand. As time goes by, looking for a job is no easy task for the average citizen. Unemployment has always been part of the Malagasy professional routine, right from the age of maturity.&nbsp;Despite the fact that decent employment for all has been one of the Velirano goals of this regime, which is struggling to realize and put into practice what it once said. Inappropriately, many young university students tend to study in order to find a job afterwards, rather than to create one. It's a long-standing situation that seems to have no resolution, even though hundreds of projects are focusing on it.&nbsp;According to Ramiliarison Andriampeno, Chairman of the Board of Directors, PCA, of the Cercle de Réflexion des Économistes de Madagascar, CREM, "Young people study in the hope of finding a job, such as becoming a civil servant or working on the assembly line in private companies. They don't have this creative culture", he confirms. A fact that stagnates, among other things, the economic contribution of young graduates or their responsibility at the forefront of the country's economic scene, given that job offers in the country do not match university skills. And they are becoming increasingly rare, especially as competition from offshore companies is fierce. However, it should be noted that some 500,000 young people enter the job market every year, and in relation to this figure, the state has nothing but projects to offer them.&nbsp;Open-air markets. With jobs in short supply, many are turning to the informal sector to earn a living. In other words, the streets, which are filling up with more and more merchants, are living proof. In other words, entrepreneurship is leaning more towards the informal sector, and this is true throughout the regions. To put it simply, the Malagasy people are entrepreneurial by nature, just by seeing all the small itinerant businesses, stalls and stores on display in all four corners of the island. Like Mr. Ramo, a sharp businessman in his forties who has been working as a mobile coffee vendor for the past 10 years. Originally from the countryside in Antanifotsy, Antsirabe, he's always been on the streets of Antananarivo.&nbsp;"I immigrated to the city to earn money to support my family, who stayed in the countryside to farm," he says. Not having much luck finding a job in the city, he used his know-how to move into the kitchen. For a decade in the city, he has been sending money home to his family on a regular weekly basis. At present, he claims to make around 35,000 ariary, or 7 euros, a day, and sends 50,000 ariary to his family every weekend. "I return home twice a month," he says again. Many people immigrate to the city in the hope of improving their living conditions, but the dream is often not what it seems. Unlike others who leave their villages never to return, Mr. Ramo moved to finance his work projects in the countryside. Social networks as business tools. If Mr. Ramo didn't have the chance to study, there are those who did, but couldn't find a job. Like Mr.Herizo, a young man of 28 who works in the resale of Chinese products such as sandals and shoes online, more precisely on a social network. "I chose the virtual world as my field of choice, because I don't want to have to deal with the agents of the Commune Urbaine d'Antananarivo who chase away street vendors", he says. Having studied management for two years, he was unable to find what he wanted to do as a job, which is why he decided to take up this activity almost a year ago. However, he hasn't given up hope and continues to send applications to various companies in the hope of one day being recruited. By selling online, he says he earns between 300,000 and 500,000 ariary, approx.100 euro, a month, depending on the sales he makes. Although there is as yet no law or legal structure governing online sales, those concerned prefer to do their small business online rather than be "robbed" by the tax authorities. Good or bad, the legality of any profit-making activity is always recommended. This would bring a certain stability to the system of economic governance. However, some Malagasy do undertake business, but informally, and only when they are caught off guard. What's more, most of those working in the informal sector don't even think about formalizing, because they feel that formalizing is an additional burden that needs to be continually addressed. At least, that's what Mr. Ramo and Mr. Herizo said when asked if they were ever thinking of formalizing their activities.&nbsp;Riana AndriamirindrarivonjyIndependent ReporterAugust 10th, 2023Antananarivo, Madagascar.&nbsp;Many thanks to the contributors.Photo: Razanamparany Andrianirina Raymond Bernard

Paying taxes makes many Malagasy in the formal sector cringe. It's expensive, and often out of reach for other economic players who prefer to stay in the black. Every year, the country's tax offices are packed with young entrepreneurs who often fail to understand the State's determination to take far more from them than they earn. As a result, they choose to work in the informal sector rather than be held back by a system that forces them to give up entrepreneurship. 

Survival entrepreneurship,when the informal sector saves the day

Independent Reporter: You are Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona, winner of the "Pan-African Documentary Competition" category at the 19th Madagascourt Film Festival. Can you tell us a little about how it all began?&nbsp;&nbsp;Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona: As you've already mentioned, I don't think I'll be running again. Laughs.&nbsp;Although, yes, I might add that I live in Tuléar, where, incidentally, I made this documentary film "Les sentiers du doute", more precisely in the Mikea forest near Ambatomilo. For the record, I've always been a big fan of documentaries since I was very young, and I'm also very passionate about travelling. The two combine well, and I've been lucky enough to make a career out of it. I chose to make a film about the Mikea because I'm also in the tourism business. So, through my travels, I've been able to see the Mikea with tourists and see that there are two kinds of Mikea: those who are real Mikea who still live in the forest, and the "fake Mikea", as I call them, because they already live next to the hotel infrastructure and are "tourist curiosities". Because of all this, the Mikea could be influenced by modern life and disappear. And what would the Mikea forest be without the Mikea? So I wanted to show this through the magic of film. IR: But what prompted you to choose the subject of culture for your films?&nbsp;And can you tell us more about your work??&nbsp;And could you perhaps share with us your feelings about these victories?&nbsp;&nbsp; G.L.R.: I chose culture as my subject because back in 2022, with my 3-minute film entitled "Sihanaky et la disparition des géants" ,Sihanaky and the disappearance of the giants, I was the winner of the "ePOP Grand Prize" in an international video competition. ePOP is the 1st international network of people committed to the environment, which bears witness to people's feelings about the consequences of environmental and climate change, developed by RFI planète Radio and IRD, the French Institute for Development Research. So I wanted to change the subject to vary my filmography. My feelings? I... I'm both happy and unhappy to have won, because my father died in Tuléar a few days after I finished the film in Toulouse, without him having seen the documentary, even though his name and that of my mother are in the end credits.&nbsp;In a way, I wanted to surprise him. Sigh. He hasn't seen the successes that have followed either, of which there have been three so far for "Les sentiers du doute", and he's still waiting for the results at other festivals around the world where it's been selected. In fact, the win at this 19th Madagascourt Film Festival is dedicated to him. IR: It's a fine tribute, indeed... And how and how long did it take you to make this film?&nbsp;And what are the prospects for the future?&nbsp; G.L.R.: I was able to make this film thanks to the production grant for a documentary of my choice following my victory in the ePOP competition in 2022, and also with the support of my family. And for the shoot, it took me a total of three months for pre-production, post-production and finalising the film. In terms of prospects, I'd say they're promising. Seeing fiction films at the Madagascourt Film Festival, I would like to explore different avenues, including other film genres in addition to documentary. IR: How do you see the situation and future of cinema in southern Madagascar? What potential is there? G.L.R: The audiovisual situation in southern Madagascar has enormous potential, but it also presents challenges. There is growing interest in film development, but infrastructure and resources are needed to support its growth, namely a large audiovisual production house. Why not also open a national audiovisual college like the one in Toulouse, since that's what Tuléar is also known as. All joking aside, it's a great project for young people who want to train in the audiovisual industry, including me. IR: A message perhaps?&nbsp;&nbsp;﻿G.L.R: More like a piece of advice for people who want to get into the audiovisual business: keep learning, keep persevering, keep being inspired... I started by doing drone work with people who were already in the audiovisual business in Tuléar. That enabled me to see the different ways of making a video, and so I took from each of them their knowledge. DAMY GovinaIndependent Reporter&nbsp;15 July 2024&nbsp;Antananarivo, Madagascar.Thanks to Mr Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona Photo: Courtesy of Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona

Winner of the "Zébu d'or" award in the "Pan-African Documentary Competition" category at the 19th edition of the Madagascar Film Festival, MFF, and the Rencontres du Film Court , RFC, Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona, aged 28, is increasingly exporting his filmic signature on a different level with his production of "Les Sentiers du doute", The Paths of Doubt, which sets out the major dilemma facing the indigenous Mikea populations, like those around the world.  Resist or succumb to the lure of modernity and the cultural concessions it imposes? Their choice defines their future.  His work won him the prize for best short documentary in the "Human Rights" category at the "Life After Oil" International Film Festival in Italy, and the "Best Story" award at the "Beneath the River Danube" International Film Festival in Serbia last June.  His documentary film, Sihanaky et la disparition des géants , Sihanaky and  the disappearance of the giants, won the ePOP Grand Prix at the 4th edition of the video competition entitled "Fais voir ce qu'ils ressentent" , Let them see what they feel, organized by ePOP in Paris, France, in 2022. Standing 1.80 metres tall, he has a multi-dimensional vision for Madagascar, despite the fact that, having studied law, nothing predicted a future in the 7th art. Interview. 


"I dedicate these victories to my father", Gourio Laurino Raoelijaona , documentary film-maker.

La presse mahoraise l’a déjà annoncé, la viande malagasy servira les palais des habitants de Mayotte en 2025. Une nouvelle précoce tandis que la situation dans le Sud de Madagascar, lieu de l’installation et de l’exploitation de ce projet, se complique suite à l’appel de certaines personnalités publiques et politiques au mouvement « Stop Bovima ». Si l’on revient, en effet, sur la réaction des natifs des régions Anôsy et Androy, l’accueil du concept divise la population, majoritairement, d’éleveurs qui se dit sentir une démarche piégeant les fermiers, mais les autorités locales décideurs essaient ,vaille que vaille, de persuader cette dernière des valeurs ajoutées de ce projet pour le développement de cette partie de la Grande île. Une idée de développement, qui  plus est, perçue dubitative. 

Exportation de la viande bovine , tension sur la théorie du gagnant-gagnant 

Un doux playlist ancestral. Avec les nombreux événements culturels qui vont se dérouler un peu partout à Antananarivo, un évènement marque ce weekend, celui du quarto ; Ralanto, Mbola Talenta, Haja Telefongady et Beauzaka, qui montera sur la scène du Karibotel 26, à Analakely pour un cabaret cent pour cent “Bagasy”, le samedi 03 Février prochain. Un mélange d’art oratoire poétique mélodieux accompagné d’instruments de musique, souvent classiques, comme la guitare ou encore la valiha,&nbsp;et d’un air d’opéra , ce genre musical faisant la particularité d’Antananarivo fait toujours l’unanimité auprès de son public qui opte pour un doux playlist ancestral. Groupé dans le collectif “Anoka Bagasy”, ces musiciens chanteurs continuent de promouvoir les traits musicaux du pays popularisés dans les années 40. En effet, si ces performeurs sont étrangers à la nouvelle génération, celle d’avant s’en souvient, car leurs chansons sont immortelles. À l’exemple de celle de l’interprète de “Gasikara”, du groupe Telofangady. Une belle chanson de nostalgie, en effet, cette ballade a traversé le temps et fait toujours aussi sensation dans les cœurs des Malagasy et surtout ceux se trouvant à l'Etranger. Des voix et des hommes. Pour cette première scène de la nouvelle année, un répertoire de nostalgie retentira dans ce lieu de diversité événementielle pour renouer avec les mélodies de l’enfance, de la jeunesse et de la maturité. Pour un petit rappel, “Anoka Bagasy” est un groupe de musiciens chanteurs issus de différents groupes de musique performant souvent dans la capitale et ont fait de leur amour pour la musique, une préservation de la culture.&nbsp;Ainsi, une partition de chants folkloriques locaux vont rappeler aux spectateurs la beauté de la diversité du genre musical à Madagascar. Ainsi, ce ne sera pas seulement une découverte, mais plutôt un retissage de liens avec le public malagasy. Des guitares, une valiha, un des instruments emblématiques du pays, une percussion, mais surtout des voix d’hommes mélodieuses à l’unisson.&nbsp;La soirée débutera à 15h et promet d'être un mélange de souvenirs, de mélancolies ou encore de retrouvailles avec ceux qui ont toujours bercé leur musique à bon nombre de Malagasy. Govina DAMYIndependent Reporter1er Fevrier 2024Antananarivo, MadagascarPhoto: Anoka Bagasy.&nbsp;&nbsp;


A l'accoutumée, à chaque fin de la semaine, les mélomanes et fêtards malagasy se retrouvent pour de détendre après les longues journées professionnelles. Entre amis ou en famille, c'est une culture qui a déjà existé bien longtemps. Les sorties en cabaret, en boîte de nuit ou en soirées privées sont des habitudes qui font animer les coins de rue de la capitale. 

Anoka Bagasy , Une scène de fraternité musicale

IR : Professeur Rasoloarison, après la crise politique qui a conduit Madagascar à un gouvernement de&nbsp;transition en 2009 et à la création soudaine d'un nouveau parti politique, le régime HVM, en 2013, Madagascar est-il prêt pour une nouvelle transition? PR : Eh bien, quand on parle de transition politique ou de gouvernement provisoire, cela signifie qu'il y a un régime en place qui détient et contrôle tous les pouvoirs d'une manière non démocratique. C'est là que l'expression "transition" prend tout son sens. Tout a commencé en 1972 avec la manifestation des étudiants demandant au président Philibert Tsiranana de quitter son poste au cours de son second mandat. Ils criaient sur tous les toits qu’il était un dictateur. Le même événement a conduit le pays à une autre manifestation "anti-dictateur" en 1991, et la récente manifestation&nbsp;a eu lieu en 2009, comme vous l'avez mentionné, avec le même régime dictatorial sur toutes les lèvres. Et nous voici en 2023, nous entendons à nouveau le même mot. La question est de savoir pourquoi nous avons besoin d'une transition politique? IR : S'agit-il d'un besoin ou d'un manque de maîtrise politique ? PR : Ecoutez, les Malagasy, surtout les politiciens malagasy, sont habitués à cette pensée culturelle du consensus à tous les niveaux. C'est comme si on avait foi en ce consensus pour diriger le pays afin d'éviter tout malentendu. Cela veut dire que s'il y a un régime qui ne respecte pas du tout le système démocratique, il sera anti-démocratique pour lui d'organiser des élections. De ce fait, les partis politiques vont réfléchir et proposer un consensus avant d'organiser une élection. Mais ce que j'ai compris, c'est que la structure de transition sera le point focal de la décision d’ensemble d'organiser des élections. En fait, personne ne sera priviligié. Alors, la structure de transition politique est-elle bonne ou mauvaise pour la nation?&nbsp;C'est le point important de notre discussion. IR : Oui, mais après 15 ans de la dernière structure de gouvernement intérimaire, les séquelles sont toujours là, nous ne nous en sommes pas encore remis, comment pouvons-nous gérer la vie sociale malgache si d'une manière ou d'une autre le régime actuel annonce une nouvelle transition? PR : Vous savez, si nous regardons la vie quotidienne des Malagasy, dans l'ensemble, d’accord ? Les gens luttent du jour le jour. Et si nous allons vers un autre gouvernement provisoire, je pense que ce sera un changement énorme et dangereux. La vie des gens sera plus compliquée qu'elle ne l'est actuellement. Et ce ne sera pas dans l'intérêt des gens. Nous devons ,donc, réfléchir plus profondément à la manière d'organiser des élections démocratiques. De cette manière, le régime en place ne devra pas organiser ces élections pour son profit personnel, mais plutôt pour éviter les troubles civils. C'est ce qui a été fait en 1991, lorsque le régime a donné aux associations indépendantes la liberté de contrôler toute l'organisation des élections. Là, on peut être sûr que les troubles seront réduits. Pour l'instant, l'organisation n'est pas claire. En ce qui concerne la liste électorale, il y a des complications. Antananarivo est la capitale de Madagascar, donc on peut dire que la liste électorale est sous contrôle, mais il y a toujours des choses comme des noms mal écrits, des noms qui ne sont pas enregistrés. Tout le monde sait que les gens sont fatigués de la politique. Ils ne veulent même pas vérifier la véracité de leur nom. IR : Cette frustration est-elle due à une négligence ou à un simple ras-le-bol ?&nbsp; PR : Ils ne croient plus en aucune structure politique. Les gens sont épuisés. Ils luttent pour survivre chaque jour. Comment peuvent-ils avoir la motivation de vérifier leurs noms ? IR : Combien de transitions le système politique malgache a-t-il dû traverser avant de devenir aussi désespéré ? PR : De 1972 à 1975, ce qui a conduit à la deuxième République. De 1991 à 1993, ce qui nous a conduit à la troisième République. Et nous avons également eu 2009, qui nous a conduit à la quatrième République. Chaque fois que le pays change de République, il y a toujours une transition. Au total, nous avons eu trois gouvernements provisoires ou transitions politiques. Donc, si nous avons une nouvelle transition, est-ce qu'elle mènera à une autre République ou est-ce que ce sera juste une structure transitoire pour organiser des élections ? IR : Cela figure-t-il dans la loi constitutionnelle ou s'agit-il d'une décision facile à prendre ?&nbsp; PR : La raison pour laquelle la structure politique de transition est transformée en République est que le gouvernement intérimaire élabore une nouvelle Constitution pour mettre en place la nouvelle République. Le gouvernement intérimaire est convaincu que l'ancienne Constitution n'a pas bien fonctionné et qu'elle doit donc être modifiée. La nouvelle Constitution sera la Constitution de la nouvelle République. Donc si, en cette période d'élections, on peut penser que c'est le moment de mettre en place une structure de transition, des questions se posent : la structure de transition est-elle créée en vue des élections ou pour modifier la loi constitutionnelle afin de parvenir à une autre République ? IR : Mais pourquoi toujours la changer, est-ce que cela montre que le système politique malagasy est faible ou non maîtrisé ?&nbsp; PR : Pourquoi ? Parce que, si on regarde la Loi constitutionnelle qui a suivi ici, elle a toujours mis en avant le système présidentiel. Pour améliorer cela, le système présidentiel doit être revu, mais dès qu'un nouveau président prend ses fonctions, le même système présidentiel est utilisé à nouveau. C'est pourquoi nous avons encore cette structure transitoire qui demande que la structure existante soit modifiée. Mais dans ce pays, les gens ne comprennent pas la signification des termes "pouvoir" et "gouvernement". L'idée sous-jacente n'est pas claire pour eux. C'est parce que le mot "GOUVERNEMENT" est mal compris qu'on le confond avec la notion de "POUVOIR". Tout le monde s'accorde à dire que le Président de la République a tous les pouvoirs, qu'il décide de tout ce qui concerne le pays.&nbsp;Mais encore une fois, il faut que ceux qui dirigent ce pays maîtrisent ce que sont le pouvoir républicain et la structure démocratique.&nbsp;&nbsp;Govina DAMYJournaliste indépendant19 Juin 2023.Antananarivo, Madagascar. Remerciements au Professeur Jeannot Rasoloarison.&nbsp;&nbsp; Photo&nbsp;: Razanamparany Andrianirina Raymond Bernard


Déjà relayée par les médias, l'opinion publique commence à s'interroger sur une nouvelle transition cette année, même si le gouvernement actuel souligne que la campagne présidentielle aura bien lieu. Confirmé ou non, en route ou non, le Professeur Jeannot Rasoloarison, enseignant-chercheur au Département d'Histoire de Madagascar, a accepté de donner sa propre version de la situation politique malgache actuelle.

 "Une nouvelle transition ne serait pas dans l'intérêt des Malagasy!", Pr. Jeannot Rasoloarison.

Grand paradoxe existentiel. Une des premières destinations touristiques de la planète Terre, Madagascar fait rêver plus d’une personne car il n’a rien à envier à d’autres îles. Qualifiée d’unique, la Grande île attire de plus en plus d’investisseurs et des multinationales internationaux tellement il y a encore une multitude de choses à y faire. En effet, après les soixante-quatre (64) longues années de colonisation, cela semble de plus en plus compliqué pour les habitants de ce pays insulaire de se relever. Les riches s’enrichissent, les moyens restent dans leur simple confort résilient, et les démunis survivent. Mais encore, les traces de la génération colonisatrice piétinent la génération actuelle qui rêvasse de lui ressembler. Chaque année, des milliers de sortants diplômés arrivent sur le marché de l’emploi. Ceci explique le taux de chômage exponentiel, et l’ultime option est de se frayer un chemin pour l’Extérieur. «&nbsp;Je suis en train de préparer mes papiers pour aller à l’étranger, n’importe où sauf ici. Je ne sais pas si je vais passer ou pas, mais je ferais tout pour partir. Ma mère a puisé dans son économie pour ce voyage, je n’ai pas le droit de le faillir.», dixit Heriniaina D., &nbsp;nouveau bachelier. En réalité, si ce jeune homme veut à tout prix partir, c’est parce qu’il espère un avenir prospère en France, l’autre pays, jadis, persécuteur. Cependant, pendant que certains préparent leurs passeports, leurs papiers administratifs, trouver un garant potentiel, et prier pour un rendez-vous à temps au TLS Contact, d’autres voyant la potentialité du pays font les mêmes démarches pour s’y installer. &nbsp;N'importe où sauf Madagascar. Cela peut être, certainement, vu telle une belle relation diplomatique entre Madagascar et la France, mais semble inégale. Car les valeurs ajoutées n’apportent pas à l’un, mais plutôt à l’autre. Dans ce sens, les Malagasy vont à l’extérieur pour travailler, passer des vacances pour ceux ayant les moyens, se marier pour ceux ayant trouvé l’amour ou le «&nbsp;jackpot&nbsp;», ou ils sont boursiers, etc. Si l’on se réfère aux quelques personnes interviewées localement, la majorité veut partir et laisser le pays entre les mains de ceux croyant encore à son développement. Sauf qu’il existe des milliers de raisons pour lesquelles un citoyen malagasy décide d’abandonner pour mieux vivre. «&nbsp;Je suis partie car j’ai travaillé dans un domaine qui ne se concordait pas aux études que j’avais faites. En plus, le salaire était modique. Mon rêve était de partir pour l’Allemagne, la Suisse, l’Autriche, le Lichtenstein. Quoique, j’ai dû économiser de l’argent, et ma famille m’a aidée pour ce faire, car mes salaires réunis durant des années n’ont pas pu m’offrir ce dont je voulais. Actuellement, je rentre plutôt en Allemagne, mais pas à Madagascar. Je n’avais pas du tout pensé à me marier avec un étranger, mais me voilà&nbsp;», indique M.L étudiante et résidente dans la capitale allemande. Les motifs du départ sont, généralement, pour le bien des enfants, et qu’ils ne partent pas de leur propre gré, mais forcés par la vie, et particulièrement par le système qui ne favorise pas le bien de la population. D’autres ont vendu héritage car la poche financière ne leur permette pas. &nbsp;Plusieurs d’entre eux ont économisé durant, certains ont emprunté de l’argent, mais si le traditionnel malagasy rentre toujours au pays, d’autres ne veulent qu’y passer des vacances et retourner ailleurs. Ils sont devenus «&nbsp;la Diaspora&nbsp;». &nbsp;Aux environs de 250.000 éparpillés dans le monde. Toutefois, ils ne sont pas les seuls, ceux que l’on a posé les questions au centre –ville d’Analakely sont assez clairs dans leurs propos, ils ne pensent plus avoir un meilleur lendemain en restant dans ce pays. Celui-ci, nous allons le dénommer Martin R, homme de 47 ans, marié et a quatre enfants. «&nbsp;Mes parents ont tout fait pour que je quitte Madagascar. Ils ont vendu des héritages, ils ont usé de leurs connaissances. Mais, en vain.&nbsp;Je pense que je ne suis pas chanceux. Je voudrais que mes enfants y fassent leur carrière et rentrer s’ils veulent. Vous savez, j’ai des amis qui sont partis. Ce sont des vrais «&nbsp;vazaha&nbsp;» aujourd’hui.&nbsp;», raconte-t-il. Des vrais «&nbsp;Vazaha&nbsp;», en effet, pour signifier des véritables hommes blancs ou des véritables français. L’on voit sur son visage, la déception et la désolation. Ceci étant, Madagascar se vide de plus en plus de son jeune espoir qui est très prisé ailleurs, surtout ceux qui sont dans l’informatique et la technologie. Néanmoins, certains Malagasy se présentent comme regrettant cette colonisation qui a tant décimé dans son pays. Aux environs de 250.000 Malagasy sont éparpillés un peu partout dans le monde, selon la direction de la Diaspora au sein du Ministère des Affaires Etrangères. Seulement, d’après le premier responsable de ce département, il se peut qu’il y en ait beaucoup plus, mais souvent, ils sont en situation irrégulière. «&nbsp;Les Malagasy n’aiment pas s’enregistrer au Consulat, ils ont peur de l’administration. Et cela peut être de la simple ignorance, négligence qui les mène à une situation irrégulière dû à leur séjour expiré ou autres raisons. Et si jamais, ils ont été victimes d’une injustice, ou d’abus, et bien, c’est toujours difficile pour le Consulat de s’en charger, car il n’y a rien concernant ces derniers.&nbsp;» Effectivement, c’est essentiel de passer par le Consulat pour avoir une carte consulaire attestant leur séjour pour leur protection. &nbsp;&nbsp;84% en France. Dans le registre de ce ministre, le pourcentage des Malagasy résidant à l’extérieur se répartit comme ceci&nbsp;; 84 % en France, 5% aux Comores, 3% au Canada, 1%, en l’Italie et 1% en Belgique. Pour l’Archipel des Comores, il existe des clandestins venant surtout de la ville de Mahajanga qui sont enregistrés nulle part passant par voyage maritime. «&nbsp;Nous ne sommes pas tous des clandestins ici, mais, effectivement, il y a des Malagasy , principalement, ceux originaires de la Région Boeny qui vivent là sans documents administratifs légaux. L’on ignore comment ils ont fait pour passer la douane. », indique une source anonyme joint sur Messenger de la Grande Comores. &nbsp;En 2022, il y a aux environs 100.000 Malagasy en France. Ils sont définis comme des travailleurs immigrants. En Europe, ce sont les étudiants qui gonflent ces chiffres. Dans le continent africain, c’est plus les diligents du secteur privé qui sont au premier rang de la liste.&nbsp;Aux Amériques, en Asie, et dans la région de l’Océan indien&nbsp;; île Maurice et île Mayotte, ce sont plus de travailleurs domestiques, des mains d’œuvres et des universitaires. «&nbsp;L’île Maurice est en train de ramasser toutes les mains-d’œuvre du pays. Nous venons ici car le salaire est bien loin tentant et loin devant de celui proposé à Madagascar, même avec la même boite. &nbsp;Néanmoins, la donne a changé, aujourd’hui, même les valeurs sûres du pays sont beaucoup mieux traitées ici. Nous n’aurons, certainement, pas le même traitement que les Mauriciens, mais c’est beaucoup plus mieux.&nbsp;», selon une autre source originaire de Madagascar résident dans cette île voisine. &nbsp;Perspective d’avenir incertain. Pour en savoir plus de ces départs massifs, sociologue Raoelison Gabriel Harimamy nous a donnés sa version, «&nbsp;Les Malagasy quittent Madagascar car il n’y a plus de perspective d’avenir.&nbsp;La réussite éducative ne garantit plus ni la réussite professionnelle, ni financière. Les jeunes veulent fuir la situation, la corruption, le trafic d’influence, et l’extérieur représente un rêve de meilleurs horizons. ». &nbsp;Il y a majoritairement 61% de femmes, contre 39% des hommes, à l’étranger. &nbsp;Et la plupart de ceux qui veulent partir sont plus des femmes. D’après cette même direction, ce sont les études qui ont commencé l’histoire de la diaspora malagasy, puis vient le travail. «&nbsp;La diaspora malagasy est hautement qualifiée, mais très silencieuse, elle est, d’ailleurs, la première diaspora sub-saharienne en France, devant le Sénégal.&nbsp;», atteste le même responsable.&nbsp;Elle intervient entre autres dans le secteur public et le secteur privé. Pour le premier, il s’agit, apparemment, de soutien à l’éducation, de la lutte contre la corruption, de la bonne gouvernance, de la santé, de l’agriculture, de l’appui bénévolat, ou encore du transfert de compétences. Et pour le deuxième, il s’agit plutôt de l’immobilier, la TIC, de l’artisanat, du commerce, ou encore de l’environnement. &nbsp;En outre, il existe aussi des situations où c’est le Malagasy même qui dissuade le retour au bled.&nbsp;C’est le cas de Mme A.O, ancienne diaspora de la Grande Comores, son retour fut tout un débat. «&nbsp;Le jour où mon entourage a su que je me préparai pour rentrer à Madagascar, tout le monde me l’a déconseillée, voire, dissuadée. On m’a dit que les gens risquaient leur vie pour quitter, et moi, pourquoi je voudrais y retourner&nbsp;? Ce fut un déclic, et cela m’a donnée plus envie de rentrer. », s’est-elle exprimée, joint sur WhatsApp. &nbsp;Direction de la diaspora. En définition, la Diaspora est une appellation de l’ensemble d’une communauté venant du même pays, résidant, travaillant, ou vivant dans un autre pays. &nbsp;C’est un capital humain potentiel pour leur pays d’origine si elle arrive à se réunir et à se transformer en une poignée de force. Ces dernières années, la diaspora commence de plus en plus à investir au pays. La communauté malagasy d’outre-continent comme le Canada, l’île Maurice, les Seychelles en collaboration avec le Gouvernement en place de 2013 a sorti le décret portant sur la suspension des travailleurs émigrants au Moyen-Orient avec les abus dont ils ont subi. D’après les explications de cette même direction, les travailleurs domestiques enregistrés au Liban sont de 500 dont 300 illégaux. &nbsp;Pour le travail au Canada, la plupart du temps, cela passe par l’Ambassade concernée, c’est à elle de contrôler, de surveiller le demandeur. Une fois que tout cela est effectué, le Ministère des Affaires Etrangères passe à l’action pour les paperasses administratives, ensuite, ils iront au Ministère du travail, de l’emploi, de la Fonction publique, de lois sociales. Puis, le MAE donne le Visa après avoir bien lu et approuvé le contrat visé par l’Ambassade de Madagascar au Canada pour l’enregistrement pré-consulaire. Selon cette direction, sa mission entre dans la mobilisation pour le développement de Madagascar, l’assistance et la protection, la négociation des soucis diplomatiques, le respect des droits humains s’il y a incarcération quelque part, l’évacuation sanitaire, etc. &nbsp;D’après un autre témoignage, une femme regrette de ne pas être allée plutôt, car c’est toujours mieux d’être ailleurs dans tous les sens du terme. Nonobstant, les Malagasy n’oublient pas leur patrie peu importe où ils trouvent. En résumé, les témoignages ont démontré que si le système changeait et améliorait la vie de la population, personne ne serait parti, il n’y a pas mieux que chez soi. Dans tous les cas, si tout le monde partait, qui resterait&nbsp;et prendrait soin de Madagascar ? Govina DAMY Independent Reporter 02 Septembre 2023 Antananarivo, Madagascar. Photo&nbsp;: Razanamparany Andrianirina Raymond Bernard

Des papiers souvent préfabriqués, des préparatifs coûtant presque l’économie d’une vie, des retours à zéro pour avoir le meilleur. Aujourd’hui, nombreux Malagasy quittent l’une des plus belles îles et l’une des plus convoitées au monde, Madagascar, pour une semblance d’un avenir beaucoup plus prometteur. La plupart d’entre eux vont être dans la main-d’œuvre comme agent de maison, des métiers souvent dénigrants et dénigrés au pays, mais qui valent mieux côté salaire dans d’autres. Pour les plus chanceux, ils signeront des CDD, Contrats à Durée Déterminée.  En effet, si le Malagasy avait le moyen, il serait longtemps parti, car les quelques interviewés dans le centre-ville d’Antananarivo, neuf (9) sur dix (10) voudraient emballer leur valise pour aller en France, premier choix de destination. « Andafy », signifiant littéralement « à l’étranger », devient une convoitise, voire, une quête pour nombreux jeunes n’ayant plus d’espoir pour et dans leur propre pays. 

Départ exponentiel des Malagasy, Le système oblige l’« Andafy »

From 1,700 Ariary to 1,000 Ariary in Two Weeks Farmers in Belobaka are currently harvesting vary asotry or vary aloha, a rice variety sown between June and August 2025. This early cultivation is intended to anticipate the maintso ahitra period (rice growth) and, above all, to finance the 2026 agricultural season. This year, however, the strategy has failed. “At the beginning of November, the price was still normal, at 1,700 Ariary per kilo. As soon as the harvest began, collectors suddenly lowered the price to 1,000 Ariary,” says Eline, a mother of a family. “With such a low price, it is almost impossible to prepare for the next season. I had to borrow money from a relative, with interest,” she laments. In Madagascar, despite the presence of investment banks and financial institutions, access to credit remains extremely limited for small-scale farmers, forcing them to rely on informal and risky financing solutions. Faced with this situation, local authorities have taken no concrete action. No regulatory or protection mechanisms have been introduced. “The drop in prices is partly due to the poor condition of the roads. And in a liberal economy, the State cannot intervene,” explains a representative of the Bongolava Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This justification has been poorly received by farmers, especially since road rehabilitation works were carried out this year in the municipality as part of a regional project. Collectors Accused of Abuses Located just 70 kilometers from the district of Tsiroanomandidy, or about three hours by road, Belobaka remains relatively accessible. Yet collectors-mostly from the neighboring district of Imeritsiatosika-cite logistical difficulties to justify the price drop. Comparisons with other regions raise serious questions. In Maevatanana, a rice collector claims that the price of paddy rice remains stable at around 1,800 Ariary per kilo. Meanwhile, in Antananarivo’s markets, the price of a kapoaka of white rice ranges between 800 and 1,000 Ariary, depending on quality. Since one kilo of paddy yields approximately 3.5 cup of white rice, the gap between what farmers receive and urban market prices is striking. “We are in total hardship. We sell our rice at a very low price, but we buy basic necessities at exorbitant prices,” complains another mother of a family. “Last year, it wasn’t like this. Maybe the collectors are taking advantage of political instability. We don’t know where this ‘refoundation’ is leading us,” she adds. The rural municipality of Belobaka is the main rice-producing area in the Bongolava region. More than 90% of the population depends directly on rice farming, the economic and social backbone of the community. Without swift intervention-whether institutional or regulatory-this price collapse could have long-term consequences: widespread indebtedness, reduced future production, and worsening rural poverty.&nbsp;Kanto KennedyIndependent Reporter22 December 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo: Andry Jacques Bruel / Independent Reporter - IR / Madagascar 2025&nbsp;

In the rural municipality of Belobaka, in Madagascar’s Bongolava region, rice collectors are taking advantage of the national situation to impose extremely low prices on farmers. Within just two weeks, the price of a kilo of paddy rice has fallen from 1,700 Ariary to 1,000 Ariary, plunging producers into an alarming economic situation. This sudden drop threatens the stability of a community already weakened by insecurity and the lack of public support.



Local Rice Prices in Belobaka: Collectors Impose 1,000 Ariary per Kilo, Strangling Farmers

Acting in the Face of Crises and Sharing Experience For Viviane Rahariniaina, this new edition primarily allows her voice to reach a wider audience. “This text was born from the field, from the realities I experience every day,” she explains. The book opens with a global assessment: economic crises, persistent inequalities, declining citizen trust. In the face of these challenges, she asks: how can one act when room for maneuver seems limited? “Hope is not an abstract feeling. It is a daily construction, often fragile, but necessary,” she writes. The chapters trace her journey, from creating citizen collectives to local initiatives, highlighting the central role of education and social entrepreneurship. Clear-sighted, she also shares her resistances, doubts, and failures: “Building hope is not about waiting for things to change; it’s about accepting to act within existing constraints.” At the crossroads of testimony and manifesto, the book calls for refusing resignation and viewing each local initiative as a political act. “Refusing the unacceptable is already a form of resistance,” she affirms. Collective action transforms individual vulnerabilities into shared strengths. As a social entrepreneur and founder of Fleurs Éveillées Madagascar, Viviane Rahariniaina positions this work within the continuity of her engagement with women, youth, and local communities. “I wanted this book to be useful, not just read,” she says. Published by L’Harmattan, Building Hope now reaches an international audience, demonstrating that civic engagement can bring real change when sustained over time. “Writing is another way to act. If this book can encourage even one person to move from intention to action, it will have fulfilled its mission.” Lucas Rahajaniaina Independent Reporter December 19, 2025 Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo provided by Viviane Rahariniaina/Independent Reporter-IR/Madagascar/2025

Through her book, Viviane Rahariniaina places Malagasy civic engagement at the heart of the international debate. Available since December 4 in L’Harmattan bookstores in France, Building Hope: An Act of Resistance marks a new milestone in Viviane Rahariniaina’s journey. Initially self-published, the book now appears in an enriched edition, revised in collaboration with the publisher. Across twenty chapters, the author examines civic engagement as a response to social crises and inequalities, drawing on her field experience in Madagascar.



Bâtir l’Espoir : Viviane Rahariniaina’s Book Sparks Debate

Addressing Health and Environmental Challenges In Madagascar, many women still rely on industrial menstrual products, which contain high amounts of plastic and sometimes traces of dioxins. These products pose health risks, especially with prolonged use, and contribute to massive plastic pollution, worsening the environmental crisis on the island. Women aged 15 to 45 are the most affected, highlighting the urgent need for safer and more sustainable alternatives. SEBIO draws on ancestral knowledge: before industrial products arrived, Malagasy women used cyperus, an aquatic plant with absorbent and antibacterial properties. The startup modernizes this approach by combining cyperus and banana fibers, offering biodegradable, comfortable, and women’s health-friendly sanitary protection. "My personal experience with harmful menstrual products, combined with conversations with other women in my community, revealed a pressing need for safer solutions," explains Andriambelozaka Tianasoa Avotriniaina Liane, co-founder of the startup. For context, the African Climate Innovation Challenge (ACIC) is an annual competition designed to support young African entrepreneurs in developing innovative solutions to combat climate change. The event provides winners with funding, personalized incubation programs, and mentorship, enabling them to scale their high-impact projects. In 2025, the final brought together participants from several African countries, showcasing the continent’s diversity and potential: Madagascar (SEBIO), Morocco (Jafife), Togo (Rôbalôtô), Cameroon (EcoFibre), Kenya (Zuripacks, Pollen Patrollers), Nigeria (Trashcoin), Uganda (Helton Traders Limited), Ghana (Eastern Freshaura), and Sierra Leone (Greentech Bioenergy). Women’s Economic Empowerment These projects span a wide range of innovations: reducing plastic pollution, transforming agricultural waste into energy or sustainable packaging, combating food waste, and protecting pollinators for resilient food systems. Together, they demonstrate the dynamism of African youth and their ability to propose practical solutions to environmental challenges. Beyond the ecological aspect, SEBIO supports the economic empowerment of local women: each pad is sewn by Malagasy seamstresses, creating jobs and highlighting local craftsmanship. Laboratory testing has optimized absorption and texture, ensuring a reliable solution suited to the daily needs of women, whether they study, work, or move freely. Environmentally, SEBIO helps reduce plastic waste flows in Madagascar, a critical issue for the island facing alarming plastic pollution. The project exemplifies how local innovation and sustainability can come together to address societal and climate challenges. Looking ahead, the initiative plans to expand its product range: wipes, reusable underwear and menstrual products, tampons, and adult diapers. This expansion will allow SEBIO to reach a broader market while keeping sustainability at the heart of its operations. By combining traditional knowledge, local innovation, and environmental responsibility, SEBIO illustrates the potential of African entrepreneurship to transform societies sustainably, while contributing to pollution reduction and the improvement of women’s health. Govina DAMYIndependent ReporterDecember 19, 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarThanks to our collaborators Photo: SEBIO / Independent Reporter-IR / Madagascar / 2025&nbsp;

During the African Climate Innovation Challenge (ACIC) 2025, held on November 29 in Kampala, Uganda, a Malagasy project captured significant attention: SEBIO, a startup combining innovation, women’s health, and environmental protection. Led by two passionate co-founders, the project develops biodegradable sanitary pads made from cyperus and banana fibers, inspired by traditional Malagasy knowledge while addressing modern sustainability challenges.



Women, Health, and the Planet: SEBIO Reinvents Menstrual Protection in Africa

De 1 700 Ar à 1 000 Ar en deux semaines Les paysans de Belobaka sont actuellement en pleine récolte du vary asotry ou vary aloha, un riz semé entre juin et août 2025. Cette culture précoce permet d’anticiper la période de maintso ahitra (croissance du riz) et surtout de financer la campagne agricole de 2026. Mais cette année, le calcul ne tient plus. « Le prix était encore normal début novembre, à 1 700 Ar le kilo. Dès que la récolte a commencé, les collecteurs ont brusquement baissé le prix à 1 000 Ar », témoigne Eline, mère de famille. « Avec un prix aussi bas, il est presque impossible de préparer la prochaine saison. J’ai dû emprunter de l’argent à un proche, avec des intérêts. » , se désole -t- elle. &nbsp;À Madagascar, en effet, malgré la présence de banques d’investissement et d’institutions financières, l’accès au crédit reste extrêmement limité pour les petits exploitants agricoles, contraints de se tourner vers des solutions informelles et risquées. Face à cette situation, les autorités locales brillent par leur inaction. Aucun dispositif de régulation ou de protection des producteurs n’a été mis en place. « La baisse des prix est en partie liée à l’état dégradé des routes. Et dans un pays à économie libérale, l’État ne peut pas intervenir », explique un représentant de la Chambre de Commerce et de l’Industrie de Bongolava. Une justification qui passe mal auprès des paysans, d’autant plus que des travaux de réhabilitation routière ont été réalisés cette année dans la commune, dans le cadre d’un projet régional. Des collecteurs accusés d’abus Située à seulement 70 km du district de Tsiroanomandidy, soit environ trois heures de route, Belobaka reste relativement accessible. Pourtant, les collecteurs - majoritairement originaires du district voisin d’Imeritsiatosika - invoquent les difficultés logistiques pour justifier la chute des prix. La comparaison avec d’autres régions soulève toutefois des interrogations. À Maevatanana, un collecteur affirme que le kilo de paddy se négocie toujours autour de 1 800 Ar. Pendant ce temps, sur les marchés d’Antananarivo, le prix du kapoaka de riz blanc varie entre 800 et 1 000 Ar, selon la qualité. Sachant qu’un kilo de paddy produit environ 3,5 kapoaka de riz blanc, l’écart entre le prix payé aux paysans et celui pratiqué sur les marchés urbains interroge. « On est dans la galère totale. On vend notre riz à bas prix, mais on achète les produits de première nécessité à des prix exorbitants », se lamente une autre mère de famille. « L’an dernier, ce n’était pas comme ça. Peut-être que les collecteurs profitent de l’instabilité politique. On ne sait pas où nous mène cette refondation. » avance-t-elle. &nbsp;La commune rurale de Belobaka est pourtant le premier bassin rizicole de la région Bongolava. Plus de 90 % de la population dépend directement de la riziculture, pilier économique et social de la communauté. Sans intervention rapide - qu’elle soit institutionnelle ou réglementaire - cette chute des prix pourrait avoir des conséquences durables : endettement massif, baisse de la production future et aggravation de la précarité rurale. Kanto KennedyIndependent Reporter22 Decembre 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarRemerciements à nos collaborateurs Photo : Andry Jacques Bruel /Copyright/Independent Reporter - IR /Madagascar 2025

Dans la commune rurale de Belobaka, région Bongolava, les collecteurs de riz profitent de la conjoncture nationale pour imposer un prix dérisoire aux producteurs. En l’espace de deux semaines, le kilo de paddy est passé de 1 700 Ar à 1 000 Ar, plongeant les paysans dans une situation économique alarmante. Une chute brutale qui menace l’équilibre d’une communauté déjà fragilisée par l’insécurité et le manque de soutien public.



Prix du riz local à Belobaka : Les collecteurs imposent 1 000 Ar le kilo et étranglent les paysans

Agir face aux crises et partager son expérience Pour Viviane Rahariniaina, cette nouvelle édition permet avant tout de porter sa voix plus loin. « Ce texte est né du terrain, des réalités que je vis chaque jour », explique-t-elle. L’ouvrage s’ouvre sur un constat global : crises économiques, inégalités persistantes, recul de la confiance citoyenne. Face à ces défis, elle interroge : comment agir lorsque les marges de manœuvre semblent limitées ? « L’espoir n’est pas un sentiment abstrait. C’est une construction quotidienne, souvent fragile, mais nécessaire », écrit-elle. Les chapitres retracent son parcours, de la création de collectifs citoyens aux actions locales, en soulignant le rôle central de l’éducation et de l’entrepreneuriat social. Lucide, elle partage aussi ses résistances, ses doutes et ses échecs : « Bâtir l’espoir, ce n’est pas attendre que les choses changent, c’est accepter d’agir avec les contraintes existantes. » À la croisée du témoignage et du manifeste, le livre appelle à refuser la résignation et à considérer chaque initiative locale comme un acte politique. « Refuser l’inacceptable est déjà une forme de résistance », affirme-t-elle. L’action collective transforme alors les vulnérabilités individuelles en forces partagées. Entrepreneure sociale et fondatrice de Fleurs Éveillées Madagascar, Viviane Rahariniaina inscrit cet ouvrage dans la continuité de son engagement auprès des femmes, des jeunes et des communautés locales. « Je voulais que ce livre soit utile, pas seulement lu », confie-t-elle. Publié chez L’Harmattan, Bâtir l’espoir s’adresse désormais à un public international, démontrant que l’engagement citoyen peut produire de réelles transformations lorsqu’il s’inscrit dans la durée. « L’écriture est une autre manière d’agir. Si ce livre peut encourager ne serait-ce qu’une personne à passer de l’intention à l’action, il aura rempli sa mission. » Lucas RahajaniainaIndependent Reporter19 Décembre 2025Antananarivo, MadagascarRemerciements à nos collaborateurs Photo fournie par Viviane Rahariniaina/Independent Reporter-IR&nbsp;/Madagascar /2025

Par son ouvrage, Viviane Rahariniaina inscrit l’engagement citoyen malgache dans le débat international. Disponible depuis le 4 décembre dans les librairies L’Harmattan en France, Bâtir l’espoir : Un acte de résistance marque une nouvelle étape dans le parcours de Viviane Rahariniaina. D’abord autoédité, l’ouvrage paraît aujourd’hui dans une version enrichie, retravaillée avec l’éditeur. À travers vingt chapitres, l’auteure analyse l’engagement citoyen comme réponse aux crises sociales et aux inégalités, en s’appuyant sur son expérience de terrain à Madagascar.



Bâtir l’espoir : L’ouvrage de Viviane Rahariniaina suscite le débat

Une réponse aux défis sanitaires et environnementaux À Madagascar, de nombreuses femmes dépendent encore de protections menstruelles industrielles, contenant de grandes quantités de plastique et parfois des traces de dioxines. Ces produits présentent des risques sanitaires, surtout en cas d’usage prolongé, et contribuent à une pollution plastique massive, aggravant la crise environnementale sur l’île. Les femmes âgées de 15 à 45 ans sont les plus touchées, soulignant l’urgence de proposer des alternatives plus sûres et durables. SEBIO puise dans la mémoire et les pratiques ancestrales : avant l’arrivée des produits industriels, les femmes malgaches utilisaient le cypérus, une plante aquatique aux qualités absorbantes et antibactériennes. La startup modernise cette approche en combinant cypérus et fibres de bananier, offrant ainsi une protection hygiénique biodégradable, confortable et respectueuse de la santé des femmes. « Mon expérience personnelle avec les produits menstruels nocifs, ainsi que les échanges avec d’autres femmes de ma communauté, ont révélé un besoin criant de solutions plus sûres », explique Andriambelozaka Tianasoa Avotriniaina Liane, cofondatrice de la start-up. Pour rappel, l’African Climate Innovation Challenge (ACIC) est une compétition annuelle visant à soutenir les jeunes entrepreneurs africains dans le développement de solutions innovantes pour lutter contre le changement climatique. L’événement offre aux lauréats financement, programme d’incubation personnalisé et mentorat, leur permettant de mettre à l’échelle leurs projets à fort impact. En 2025, la finale a réuni des participants issus de plusieurs pays africains, illustrant la diversité et le potentiel du continent : Madagascar (SEBIO), Maroc (Jafife), Togo (Rôbalôtô), Cameroun (EcoFibre), Kenya (Zuripacks, Pollen Patrollers), Nigeria (Trashcoin), Ouganda (Helton Traders Limited), Ghana (Eastern Freshaura) et Sierra Leone (Greentech Bioenergy). Autonomie économique des femmes Ces projets couvrent une large gamme d’innovations : réduction de la pollution plastique, transformation des déchets agricoles en énergie ou en emballages durables, lutte contre le gaspillage alimentaire, et protection des pollinisateurs pour des systèmes alimentaires résilients. Ensemble, ils montrent le dynamisme de la jeunesse africaine et sa capacité à proposer des solutions concrètes aux défis environnementaux. Au-delà de l’aspect écologique, SEBIO soutient l’autonomie économique des femmes locales : chaque serviette est cousue par des couturières malgaches, créant des emplois et valorisant le savoir-faire local. Les tests en laboratoire ont permis de perfectionner l’absorption et la texture des produits, garantissant une solution fiable et adaptée aux besoins quotidiens des femmes, qu’elles étudient, travaillent ou se déplacent librement. Sur le plan environnemental, il contribue à réduire les flux de plastique à Madagascar, un enjeu crucial pour l’île confrontée à une pollution plastique alarmante. Le projet illustre comment innovation locale et durabilité peuvent s’unir pour répondre à des défis sociétaux et climatiques. Dans le futur, l’initiative prévoit d’élargir sa gamme de produits : lingettes, culottes et protections menstruelles réutilisables, tampons et couches pour adultes. Cette expansion permettra de toucher un marché plus large tout en gardant la durabilité au centre des opérations. En combinant savoirs traditionnels, innovation locale et responsabilité environnementale, SEBIO illustre le potentiel de l’entrepreneuriat africain à changer durablement les sociétés, tout en contribuant à la lutte contre la pollution et au renforcement de la santé des femmes. &nbsp;Govina DAMY Independent Reporter19 Décembre 2025Antananarivo, Madagascar Remerciements à nos collaborateurs Photo: SEBIO/Independent Reporter-IR/Madagascar/2025 &nbsp;

Lors de l’African Climate Innovation Challenge (ACIC) 2025, qui s’est tenu le 29 novembre dernier à Kampala, en Ouganda, un projet malgache a particulièrement retenu l’attention : SEBIO, une startup qui allie innovation, santé des femmes et protection de l’environnement. Porté par deux cofondatrices passionnées, le projet développe des serviettes hygiéniques biodégradables à base de fibres de cypérus et de bananier, s’inspirant d’un savoir-faire traditionnel malgache tout en répondant aux enjeux modernes de durabilité.



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