Overview of Madagascar

Profile

Madagascar, isolated from continents through long geological history, became called the "Eighth Continent" as approximately 90% of animal and plant species became endemic, representing natural heritage island nation. Until the Merina Kingdom unified the island in the 19th century, coastal kingdoms coexisted, coming under French protection in 1896. Regained independence in 1960, currently adopting semi-presidential republic. Tourism, agriculture, and mining form economic pillars, also famous as major producer of natural vanilla and gemstones. While facing many environmental and social challenges including cyclones and forest decline, rich culture, multiethnic society, and unique food culture captivate visitors.

Official name: Republic of Madagascar
Common name: Madagascar
Numeric code: 450
Alpha-3 code: MDG
Alpha-2 code: MG
Population: About 29.6 million (2023)
Population density: About 47 people/km²
Primary languages: Malagasy, French
Major religions: Christianity, Traditional religions, Islam
National anthem: Ry Tanindrazanay malala ô (Homeland Anthem)
Calling code: +261
Internet TLD: .mg

History

Through 19th-century Merina Kingdom rise to 1896 French colonization, independence in 1960. Experiencing coups and political changes toward current Fourth Republic.

Early settlers migrated by canoe from Southeast Asia around BCE, later joined by African and Arab populations forming Malagasy people. From 17th century, coastal kingdoms prospered through Indian Ocean trade; late 18th century King Andrianampoinimerina unified central highlands. 1895 French military invasion collapsed kingdom; during colonial era, plantations and mine development advanced. Post-1960 independence transitioned through French-aligned First Republic, socialist Second Republic, multi-party Third Republic, to Fourth Republic under 2010 constitution. After post-2009 coup elections, political situation stabilizing, but development, environment, and poverty remain major challenges.

Geography & climate

Eastern steep coastal rainforests, central highland hills and rice terraces, western savanna and limestone tsingy, southern dry thorn forests distributed mosaic-like.

Tropical humid climate to savanna climate (north/east rainy, southwest semi-arid)

Area: Africa / 587041 km²
Capital: Antananarivo
Largest city: Antananarivo
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Alaotra, Lake Kinkony

Natural resources

Vanilla, Cloves, Ylang-ylang, Sapphire, Ilmenite, Nickel, Cobalt, Coal, Timber, Fishery resources, Hydropower, Tourism resources

Politics

Government: Semi-presidential republic

Economy

Currency: Malagasy Ariary (MGA)

GDP (nominal): 15.94 billion dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 59.6 billion dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Malagasy, French

Time zone: East Africa Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Merina, Betsimisaraka, Betsileo, Sakalava, Tsimihety, Bezanozano, Bara, Antandroy, Mahafaly

Life expectancy

66.2 years

Literacy rate

74%

National sports

Football, Rugby, Pétanque, Moraingy, Basketball