OSAC Country Security Report Madagascar

Last Updated: July 30, 2021 Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses Madagascar at Level 4, indicating that travelers should not travel to Madagascar due to COVID-19, and should exercise increased caution in Madagascar due to crime. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Peace Index 2021 ranks Madagascar 70 out of 163 worldwide, rating the country as being at a Medium state of peace. Crime Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Antananarivo as being a CRITICAL-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Madagascar, indicating that there may be widespread violent crime and/or organized crime present in the country, and/or that local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.

The crime emergency line in Madagascar is 117. Review the State Department’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.

Crime: General Threat

Accurate government statistics on crime rates are not available. The most common crimes involving U.S. citizens are petty theft or robbery. Skilled pickpockets are very active in downtown Antananarivo and other crowded areas of large cities. They primarily target purses, jewelry, and mobile phones for financial gain. There have been no reports of the reuse of stolen identification.

Reports of more serious crimes (e.g., home invasions) involving U.S. citizens are increasing, especially in areas with limited police/gendarme presence. While there were numerous reports of residential break-ins and home invasions in recent years, the majority appear to involve Malagasy households.

The U.S. Embassy has received an increasing (though still relatively small) number of reports of physical attacks, armed robberies, and home invasions against foreigners, particularly in Antananarivo, other large cities, and coastal tourist areas. Some of these attacks have resulted in serious injury/death to foreign nationals.

There have been allegations of security forces using official weapons to conduct home invasions and kidnappings, or loaning their issued weapons to criminal elements to do so. Highway banditry is prevalent throughout the country, especially on the major highways during the night. These incidents generally involve armed individuals operating in rural areas at night. Criminal elements are becoming bolder when selecting their victims and have been committing more crimes in public areas.

Violent confrontations between the dahalo (criminal gangs that steal cattle) and security forces have increased in several regions of Madagascar, particularly in areas south and west of the capital. Recently, there was a large, coordinated attack involving approximately 150 dahalo that left 17 civilians and two Malagasy military personnel dead.

Crime: Areas of Concern

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assaults, is common in cities around Madagascar, notably Toamasina, Mahajanga, Nosy Be, Ankarana and Montagne d’Ambre National Parks adjacent to Diego, Isalo, the area surrounding Tolagnaro/Ft. Dauphin, Batterie Beach, and north of Toliara (Tuléar). Exercise caution when traveling through these designated areas due to violent highway robberies. The region south of the National Route (RN) 7 and RN 27, including RN 10, RN 13, and the surrounding areas, is a major area of concern due to insecurity and lack of police presence. There are some excepted areas with better security in the region, including the tourist area on the coastal roads between Ambovombe and Farafangana; Fort Dauphin/Tolagnaro area; and RN 1B to the west of Antananarivo, between Tsiroanomandidy and Maintirano.

Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, and Taking Credit.

Kidnapping Threat

Kidnapping is a rare occurrence, with the exception of kidnappings within the smaller wealthy Malagasy communities, the Indo-Pakistani community, and, on rare occasion, expatriates. These kidnappings are usually business-driven and end with a paid ransom and the safe release of the victim. Most of the victims have been affluent locals or their children, especially within the Indo-Pakistani business community. Most of the kidnappings relate to business deals or local politics.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Madagascar. Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.

Drug Crime

Drug-related crimes are not a large issue in Madagascar; however, the country is a transit point to other regions for drugs. Some individuals consume drugs openly and can be under the influence of alcohol. Consult with the CIA World Factbook’s section on Illicit Drugs for country-specific information. Terrorism Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Antananarivo as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Madagascar.

The Institute for Economics & Peace Global Terrorism Index 2020 ranks Madagascar 88 out of 163 worldwide, rating the country as having a Very Low impact from terrorism.

Terrorism: General Threat

There is no known or suspected terrorist activity or active terrorist groups present in Madagascar. Prior to the current restriction of international travel, Madagascar's limited border security capabilities resulted in a permissive environment for the movement and facilitation of illicit activities, to include terrorism.

Political Violence and Civil Unrest Environment

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Antananarivo as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

Elections/Political Stability

Madagascar has a history of political unrest, including coups d’état. There are occasional, unconfirmed rumors that claim antigovernmental or opposition elements are seeking to destabilize the government. The political opposition accepted the results of the 2018 presidential election and supported a peaceful transition of power in 2019. The next national elections are scheduled for 2022.

Protest & Demonstration Activity

In the capital, Antananarivo, there is historical precedence for large groups to gather near the Presidential Palace, along Avenue de l’Independance, and near Lake Behoririka to protest various grievances. The area around Avenue de l’Independance is a symbolic location for demonstration activities due to previous events culminating in major political upheaval. The government recently denied any requests to demonstrate in these areas and deployed a heavy security presence to prevent anyone from gathering in the downtown area. There has been limited protest and demonstration activity due to COVID-19 restrictions, but there have been frequent protests at universities around Madagascar demanding the payment of student stipends. These protests escalated to confrontation, with security forces and fatalities in some cases. Other sectors, such as healthcare workers, also protest over unpaid salaries. Most protests are generally peaceful, but can escalate into a more serious situation with little to no warning.

For more information, review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest. Law Enforcement Concerns: Security Agencies

Most law enforcement and security officials in Madagascar primarily speak Malagasy; at higher and more senior levels, most speak French fluently. Many have limited or no English language skills.

National police, under the authority of the Public Security Ministry, are responsible for maintaining law and order in urban areas. The gendarmerie and military report to the National Defense Ministry. The gendarmerie is responsible for maintaining law and order in rural areas at the village level, protecting government facilities, and operating a maritime police contingent. The military is also active in rural areas, particularly to maintain order in areas affected by cattle rustling and banditry. Civilian authorities at times do not maintain effective control over the security forces. Members of the security forces have committed numerous abuses.

Police Response

Due to the lack of resources and equipment, police response from both the National Police and Gendarmerie to victims of a crime is often limited, slow, or nonexistent. This is primarily due to the lack of staffing, training, and funding, and reflects the broader economic situation. The likelihood of the security forces responding to an incident depends on availability of personnel, vehicles, and fuel for vehicles.

In major cities, the National Police are responsible for maintaining peace and security; outside of major cities, the Gendarmerie take on these responsibilities. Although the National Police and Gendarmerie normally take incidents involving foreigners seriously and deal with them quickly, there are reports indicating a failure of law enforcement response when called.

Law Enforcement Concerns: Emergency Contact/Information

The emergency line in Madagascar is 117. Transportation Security

Road Safety

Road conditions range from minimally acceptable to very poor. Authorities in Antananarivo maintain roads moderately well, except during the rainy season, when large potholes are unattended until the rains subside. Downed power and phone lines may block roads or intersections for days/weeks. Drivers share the road with pedestrians, cattle, human-powered carts, scooters, bicycles and buses, any of which may swerve/stop at a moment’s notice. Large tractor-trailers are prohibited from driving within Antananarivo city limits from 0600 to 1800, transiting the roads only at night, and do not always follow the traffic rules. The roads in most other major cities show signs of wear, including potholes and other obstructions. Nighttime driving is hazardous due to high risk of carjacking and robbery, as well as poor or nonexistent road illumination. The U.S. Embassy prohibits its personnel from driving at night outside of major cities.

Many vehicles do not meet minimal safety standards and lack working lights. Accidents, while frequent, are usually not fatal, unless scooters/motorcycles are involved. Street altercations and traffic accidents can draw large, sometimes violent crowds. The Embassy recommends that its personnel exercise caution and calm if they find themselves in a dispute, particularly in a public place. U.S. citizens who feel threatened by large crowds should seek intervention from local law enforcement and contact the U.S. Embassy immediately.

Sidewalks are rare, and roads are hazardous for foot travel due to swerving vehicles and uneven surfaces. Although there are designated pedestrian crossing signs and pathways, crossing any street involves an element of risk. Pedestrian injuries are common. Traffic law enforcement consists of stationary police posted at major intersections, typically wearing a white Traffic Police uniform or green National Police uniform within Antananarivo. Gendarmerie, usually wearing navy blue uniforms, operate vehicle checkpoints on the major roads throughout Madagascar, usually near regional borders. Uniformed police frequently flag down vehicles for inspection and verification of identification documents. Traffic enforcement is an opportunity to solicit bribes.

Local practice is to blow your car horn before going around a curve to let others know of your presence. Seatbelt use is mandatory. The use of cell phones while driving, even with a hands-free attachment, is illegal. Child safety seats are not mandatory, but highly recommended. Motorcyclists must wear helmets.

For detailed, country-specific road and vehicle safety information, read the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety.

For more information, review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Safety

The reliability, safety, and availability of taxis in Madagascar is limited. The Embassy advises its personnel not to enter taxicabs without inspecting them for operational door locks and securable windows. Travelers should hail taxis from illuminated areas, ensure that taxis have a minimum of safety equipment, negotiate the rate before departure, not enter a taxi that already has other people in it, and not enter any taxis unless they feel comfortable with the driver. The U.S. Embassy prohibits its employees from using multi-passenger taxi vans (both taxi-bes, minibuses which operate within urban centers; and taxi-brousses, which travel to outlying regions) due to the high risk of carjacking and highway robbery. Public transportation vehicles are often still in motion as passengers enter/exit. Entering and exiting vehicles is precarious, and they are not equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities.

For more information, review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights; and consider the European Union Air Safety List.

Aviation Concerns

Madagascar has taken steps in recent years to improve security at some of the international airports (Ivato-TNR, Amborovy/Mahajanga-MJN, Toliara/Tulear-TLE) where contractor-conducted passenger screening appears thorough. At other international and domestic airports, passenger screening is more limited, and passengers may not be subject to screening at all. Smuggling of gold, live animals, and other precious natural resources occurs regularly via the international airports. Airport security personnel are frequently complicit in the facilitation of smuggling activities. As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Madagascar, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Madagascar’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards.

Since October 2020, the international borders have closed to all arriving passengers, with the exception of certain travelers (e.g., diplomats, competing athletes). There are no international flights available for tourists or regular citizens. Domestic air services operate regularly but at a reduced schedule, and are subject to delays and occasional breakdowns. As of July 2021, the domestic airline Tsaradia is only operating two aircraft and often changes domestic flight schedules based on demand. The airline may cancel flights that are not full with little or no warning to passengers. Overbooking is also common. Reconfirm tickets prior to flight day, especially when flying from provincial airports.

There is a notable increase in reporting on checked luggage stolen from TNR. Criminals appear to target domestic flights, simply grabbing luggage off the luggage conveyor belt and exiting the airport. If confronted by authorities or baggage owners, they often claim they have made a mistake and return the bags.

Maritime Security

Maritime security is a major area of concern for Madagascar, with limited resources to patrol and secure the 3,000-mile long coastline. Illegal fishing and other banned maritime activities are frequent, as well as smuggling and illicit travel by boat between areas both within Madagascar and neighboring island nations. Madagascar has very limited enforcement of maritime laws, and weak controls at many ports.

Many travelers use small watercraft to transit waterways in Madagascar. Only use boats in good working condition. Boats usually do not have proper flotation devices available on board.

Personal Identity & Human Rights Concerns

Although the Malagasy constitution prohibits all forms of discrimination, to include race, gender, disability, language, and social status, no specific government institutions enforce these provisions.

Safety Concerns for Women Travelers

The law prohibits rape (including spousal rape), but does not address the gender of rape victims. Penalties range from five years to life in prison. Rape of a pregnant woman is punishable by hard labor. Authorities may add an additional two to five years’ imprisonment if the rape involves assault and battery. Authorities rarely enforce the law. In January, the government adopted a law against gender-based violence. The legislation covers violence perpetrated within the family and society, and violence perpetrated or tolerated by the state, including sexual harassment. Penalties range from six months’ to five years’ imprisonment with fines.

The law also prohibits domestic violence, which remains a widespread problem. Domestic violence is punishable by two to five years in prison and substantial fines, depending on the severity of injuries and whether the victim was pregnant. There are few shelters for battered women in the country, and many victims return to the home of their parents, who then often pressure victims to return to their abusers. Various media report a general reluctance of victims to report domestic violence. Women filing legal actions against their husbands can face criticism from their families and communities.

Sexual harassment is against the law, and penalties range from one to three years’ imprisonment and include fines. The penalty increases to two to five years’ imprisonment plus larger fines if criminals forced or pressured the victim into sexual acts or punished the victim for refusing such advances. Authorities enforce the law, but sexual harassment remains widespread.

Consider composite scores given to Madagascar by the UN Development Program (UNDP) in its Gender Development Index, measuring the difference between average achievement in three basic dimensions of human development, and Gender Inequality Index, measuring inequality in achievement in reproductive health, empowerment, and the labor market. For more information on gender statistics in Madagascar, see the World Bank's Gender Data Portal.

Review the State Department’s webpage for female travelers.

Safety Concerns for LGBTI+ Travelers

Consensual same-sex sexual relations are illegal under the age of 21. Authorities enforce this law. No law prohibits same-sex sexual conduct for those older than 21. Malagasy law contains no anti-discrimination protections for LGBTI+ persons. Although the U.S. Embassy is not aware of any recent arrests or prosecutions, penalties can include imprisonment and fines.

As evidenced by comments in occasional news items involving well known LGBTI+ personalities, members of the LGBTI+ community often continue to face considerable social stigma and discrimination within their own families, particularly in rural areas.

Review OSAC’s report, Supporting LGBT+ Employee Security Abroad, and the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI travelers.

Safety Concerns for Travelers with Disabilities

There are no sidewalks in most of the country and the roads are hazardous for foot travel due to swerving vehicles and uneven surfaces. Although there are some designated pedestrian crossings in the major cities, crossing any street involves an element of risk. Pedestrian injuries are very common. Public spaces are not wheelchair accessible.

The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities, and defines persons with disabilities as those presenting a congenital or acquired deficiency in their physical, mental, or sensory capacities. The law also provides for a national commission and regional subcommissions to promote their rights, but none has yet been set up. By law, persons with disabilities are entitled to receive health care, education, and facilitated access to public transportation, and have the right to training and employment. The law does not address access to the judicial system, information, and communications. The law also specifies the state “must facilitate, to the extent possible, access to its facilities, public spaces, and public transportation to accommodate persons with disabilities.”

However, authorities rarely enforce the rights of persons with disabilities, and the legal framework for promoting accessibility remains perfunctory. Access to education and health care for persons with disabilities also is limited due to lack of adequate infrastructure, specialized institutions, and personnel.

Safety Concerns for Travelers Based on Race, Religion, & Ethnicity

None of the 18 tribes in the country constitute a majority. There are also minorities of Indian, Pakistani, Comorian, and Chinese heritage. Ethnicity, caste, and regional solidarity often are considered in hiring and exploited in politics. A long history of military conquest and political dominance by highland ethnic groups of Asian origin, particularly the Merina, over coastal groups of African ancestry contribute to tensions between citizens of highland and coastal descent, especially in politics. The government makes efforts to address these problems by appointing diverse candidates from different regions as members of government and to other public institutions.

Review the latest U.S Department of State Report on International Religious Freedom for country-specific information.

Review OSAC’s report, Freedom to Practice, and the State Department’s webpage on security for faith- based travelers.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Generally, there is limited anti-U.S. sentiment throughout Madagascar. However, there are some disagreements between the Malagasy and French government, primarily over the ownership of several uninhabited islands to the west of Madagascar. In Antananarivo, there have been several demonstrations by various Malagasy groups at/near the French Embassy, but there has not been any associated violence.

Concerns involving the Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption &/or Transparency

Weak legislation, poor law enforcement, large geography, dilapidated infrastructure, lack of capacity/resources, and widespread corruption have made Madagascar a safe haven for illegal activities and businesses, including wildlife trafficking, deforestation, and illegal fishing.

The Embassy has received reports of police harassment, primarily solicitations for bribes related to traffic stops or while walking in public areas. Police occasionally use reasons such as stopping people in vehicles for incorrect data or visa paperwork as leverage to obtain bribes, but in some reported cases, the police simply ask for a cadeau (“gift,” code for a bribe). The U.S. Embassy recommends not paying any bribes, and reporting incidents to the Consular Section.

Significant human rights issues include: unlawful or arbitrary killings, including extrajudicial killings by government agents; torture and cases of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by government agents; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; arbitrary arrest or detention; political prisoners or detainees; serious problems with the independence of the judiciary; serious restrictions on free expression and the press, including unjustified arrests or prosecutions against journalists, censorship, and the existence of criminal libel laws; substantial interference with the freedom of peaceful assembly; serious acts of corruption; and lack of investigation of and accountability for violence against women. The government prosecutes and punishes some officials who committed abuses, whether in the security forces or elsewhere in the government; however, impunity remains a problem.

The Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index ranks Madagascar 149 out of 180 worldwide, where 1 means most transparent.

Communication Issues

The Malagasy constitution provides for freedom of expression, including for the press, but these “may be limited by respect for the freedoms and rights of others, and by the imperative of safeguarding public order, national dignity, and state security.” The government arrests journalists and activists who publicly denounce the misbehavior of public figures, often using unrelated charges to prosecute these journalists and activists. Most government actions to restrict freedom of expression occurred within the context of the national response to COVID-19, with journalists arrested or harassed for reporting failures of government officials to combat the disease effectively.

Independent media are active and express a wide variety of views, but not without restriction. The law contains several articles limiting press and media freedoms. For example, the law requires the owner of a media company to be the chief publisher. This article may permit candidates for political office, who are also media owners, to use their outlets to advocate against opponents.

The law gives the Communications Ministry far-reaching powers to suspend media licenses and seize property of media outlets if one of their journalists commits two infractions of the law. The law allows only state-owned radio and television stations the right to broadcast nationally, although this limitation is not always enforced. The country has numerous independent newspapers: more than 300 radio and television stations operate in the country, although many shifted to live call-in shows in recent years to distance themselves from editorial responsibility for content. Many of them continue to have a national audience, despite the law’s limitations. The opposition has greater access to state-run media.

The government does not restrict or disrupt access to the internet, and there are no credible reports the government monitors private online communications without appropriate legal authority.

The law prohibits insulting or defaming a government official online. According to Reporters Without Borders, “the law’s failure to define what is meant by ‘insult’ or ‘defamation’ leaves room for very broad interpretation and major abuses.” The law provides for punishment of two to five years’ imprisonment and fines for defamation.

Public access to the internet is limited mainly to urban areas. Political groups, parties, and activists use the internet extensively to advance their agendas, share news, and criticize other parties. Observers generally consider the internet (not including social media) to be among the more reliable sources of information.

The Malagasy government sometimes restricts these rights. The law includes several provisions limiting freedom of speech and expression, including broad powers of the government to deny media licenses to political opponents, seize equipment, and impose fines. In accordance with the constitution, the law restricts individuals’ ability to criticize the government publicly.

The Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index ranks Madagascar 57 out of 180 worldwide, where 1 means most freedom. The Freedom House Freedom on the Net report does not rate Madagascar’s internet freedom; its Freedom in the World report rates the country’s freedom of speech as Partly Free.

Review OSAC’s report, Lèse Majesté: Watching what you say (and type) abroad. Health Concerns

Emergency Health Services

Medical care in Madagascar is limited, especially outside of the capital. Some facilities offer medical services near or at Western standards, but any medical issues require a higher level of care will need to seek medical attention outside of Madagascar. Due to the location of the island and the ongoing COVID- 19 pandemic, it can be difficult to leave the country for emergency medical care.

Hospitals require payment up front, usually in cash, for medical services. Many will refuse service without advance payment.

Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Department’s webpage on health insurance overseas.

The U.S. Department of State has included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Madagascar, indicating that Health risks, including current disease outbreaks or a crisis that temporarily disrupts a country’s medical infrastructure, are present. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.

See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the State Department’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.

Vaccinations

The following diseases are prevalent throughout Madagascar: Malaria, Dengue Fever, Chikungunya, Diarrheal illness, Rabies, Tuberculosis, Plague, and Polio. Plague is endemic in Madagascar, where outbreaks have resurfaced nearly every year since 1980. Plague is treatable with antibiotics; seek medical treatment immediately if you experience any plague signs or symptoms.

A Yellow fever vaccination is required if traveler has been in a yellow fever endemic country within six months of arrival.

COVID-19 remains a serious public health issue in Madagascar. The Government of Madagascar received a small number of initial vaccines as part of the COVAX initiative but widespread hesitancy regarding the vaccine continues, both generally and the type initially received. Although the first shipment was not enough to vaccinate a large percentage of the population, the government was unable to use all of them before expiration. Given general hesitancy, lack of robust government support, and the limited medical infrastructure outside of major cities, vaccinations will be slow to reach the entire population.

Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.

Issues Traveling with Medications

Although pharmacies are widely present, with an array of medications available, not all types of medications are available in Madagascar. Travelers who require specific medications should bring an ample supply for the duration of their stay. The Embassy strongly recommends that travelers check with the Embassy of Madagascar regarding any prohibited medications or medications that require special permission to import.

Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

Water Quality

Local tap water is not potable and should not be consumed. Drink only bottled or distilled water.

Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?

Environmental Hazards

Cyclones (hurricanes) originating from the Mozambique Channel or the Indian Ocean commonly come ashore in Madagascar. In addition, flooding and droughts are both common occurrences and presage other environmental issues (e.g., spread of disease, locust swarms). The Embassy encourages personnel to keep a supply of water and food in their homes, as most businesses close in anticipation of the storms and supplies become scarce very quickly during emergencies.

Review OSAC’s report, Central Asia Earthquake Preparedness. Cybersecurity Concerns

There are limited cybersecurity issues in Madagascar, as there is limited penetration of the internet throughout most of the country. Although there have been allegations of technical sabotage of some websites, the internet is considered among the more reliable sources of information, as many internet servers are located outside the country.

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage. Counterintelligence Issues

There are no counterintelligence issues of note in Madagascar.

Other Security Concerns

Landmines

Madagascar has no known issues with landmines.

Import/Export Restrictions

The Government of Madagascar restricts the export of certain rare materials, to include precious gems and rosewood. Before purchasing or transporting gemstones, seek clarification of the applicable laws. Any precious materials should come with a certificate of authenticity and a certificate to allow for exportation from Madagascar.

A country-specific listing of items goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.

Photography

Photography of government buildings in Madagascar is prohibited. Many police and military forces do not like to be photographed, as well as most Malagasy citizens.

Review OSAC’s report, Picture This: Dos and Don’ts for Photography.

ID Requirements

Travelers must have a passport valid for six months from your date of entry with three blank pages. Travelers must obtain a visa to enter Madagascar, either before traveling or at the port of entry if staying less than three months. Visit the Embassy of Madagascar website or the nearest Malagasy embassy or consulate for visa information, including how to obtain a visa before traveling if you will stay longer than three months, and documents required for visa extensions.

Travelers should carry their passports with them, as police can detain individuals for being unable to identify themselves properly. Police generally do not accept U.S. driver’s licenses or copies of passports as proper identification, possibly resulting in detention until authorities can verify identification and status in the country.

Critical Infrastructure Concerns

The electrical power in Antananarivo is intermittent and frequently is down, sometimes for several hours. The local power company has limited ability to address the issue and the government has not shown the political acumen and leadership to address the inherent problems by reining in corruption within the company or by taking steps to bring more users into the paying customer base. OSAC Country Chapters

Antananarivo does not have an active Country Chapter, but is in the process of reviving one. Contact OSAC’s Africa team with any questions.

Embassy Contact Information

U.S. Embassy: Lot 207 A, Point Liberty, Andranoro-Antehiroka, Antananarivo (105)

Hours of operation: Monday-Thursday, 0800-1600; Friday, 0800-1300

Telephone: +261(20) 23-480-00

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Marine Post One: +261(33)-443-2407 Trustworthy News Sources

For timely online reports during an emergency, outlets providing live reports are: • Orange Actu website, also present on Facebook • 2424.mg website, also present on Facebook • For GasyPatriote, updates are mostly published on Patrick Raharimanana’s page, its owner • The newly (re)-launched state-owned newswire Taratra Agency, on its Facebook page • And for non-time sensitive reports, Madagascar-Tribune

Broadcast: • National TV TVM, with Facebook live broadcast • Real TV on Facebook • TV Plus on Facebook • MBS TV and radio on Facebook • VIVA TV and Radio on Facebook

Radios • National Radio RNM. While it has a Facebook page, live reports would be more directly on FM 99.2 • Radio Don Bosco (FM 93.4) • Radio Antsiva (more on FM 97.6)

Newspapers: • Newsmada group Les Nouvelles and Taratra both on the website and Facebook • L’Express on the web and on Facebook Other Helpful Info

• State Department Country Information • OSAC Risk Matrix • OSAC Travelers Toolkit • State Department Travelers Checklist • Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) • How OSAC Analysts Can Benefit Your Global Security Operations