MADAGASCAR

Compiled from the November 2003 Background Note and supplemented with additional information from the State Department and the editors of this volume. See the introduction to this set for explanatory notes.

Official Name:
Republic of Madagascar

PROFILE
PEOPLE AND HISTORY
GOVERNMENT
POLITICAL CONDITIONS
ECONOMY
FOREIGN RELATIONS
U.S.-MALAGASY RELATIONS
TRAVEL

PROFILE

Geography

Area: 592,800 sq. km. (228,880 sq. mi.).

Cities: Capital—Antananarivo (pop. about 1,300,000). Other cities—Antsirabe (about 500,000), Mahajanga (about 400,000), Toamasina (about 450,000).

Terrain: Mountainous central plateau, coastal plain.

Climate: Moderate interior, tropical coasts.

People

Nationality: Noun and adjective—Malagasy.

Population: (2000) 15,467,300.

Annual growth rate: (2000) 4.7%.

Ethnic groups: 18 Malagasy tribes; small groups of Comorians, French, Indians, and Chinese.

Religions: Traditional beliefs 47%, Christian 45%, Muslim 7%.

Languages: Malagasy (official), French.

Education: Years compulsory—5. Attendance—65%. Literacy—53%.

Health: Infant mortality rate—90/1,000. Life expectancy—55 yrs.

Work force: (2000) 8 million. Agriculture—80%; industry—7%.

Government

Type: Republic.

Independence: June 26, 1960.

Constitution: Entered into force in March 1998.

Branches: Executive—president, prime minister, cabinet. Legislative—National Assembly and Senate. Judicial—Supreme Court, High Court of Justice, Constitutional High Court.

Subdivisions: Six autonomous provinces (faritany).

Political parties: There are more than 130 with a dozen major ones, including the ruling party I Love Madagascar (TIM), Pillar and Podium for the Development of Madagascar (AREMA), Militants for the Development of Madagascar (MFM), Be Judged by your Work (AVI), Work, Truth and Harmonized Development (AFFA), National Union for Development and Democracy (UNDD), Social Democrat Party (PSD), Reflection and Action Group for Development in Madagascar (GRAD-Ilo afo), Rally for Social Democracy (RPSD), Economic Liberalism and Democratic Action for Reconstruction Party (LEADER-Fanilo), Independence and Renewal Party of Madagascar (AKFM-Fanavoazana).

Suffrage: Universal at 18.

National holiday: June 26.

Economy

GDP: (U.S.$million) $3,877.

GDP per capita: $269.

Unemployment: 23%.

Natural resources: Graphite, chrome, coal, bauxite, ilmenite, nickel, gold, tar sands, semiprecious stones, and hardwoods.

Agriculture: (29% of GDP) Products—rice, livestock, seafood, coffee, vanilla, sugar, cloves, cotton, sisal, peanuts, and tobacco.

Industry: (14% of GDP) Types—processed food, clothing, textiles, mining, paper, refined petroleum products, glassware, construction, soap, cement, tanning.

Trade: (2000) Exports—$1,061 million: apparel, shrimp, vanilla, coffee, sugar, cloves, graphite, essential oils, industrial and gemstones. Major export markets—France, U.S., Germany, Japan, Singapore, Italy, EU. Imports (2000)—$1,464 million: consumer goods, foodstuffs, crude oil, machinery and vehicles, iron and steel, electronics, computers and accessories. Major suppliers—EU, France, Iran, Japan.

PEOPLE AND HISTORY

Madagascar's population is predominantly of mixed Asian and African origin. Recent research suggests that the island was uninhabited until Indonesian seafarers arrived in roughly the first century A.D., probably by way of southern India and East Africa, where they acquired African wives and slaves. Subsequent migrations from both the Pacific and Africa further consolidated this original mixture, and 18 separate tribal groups emerged. Asian features are most predominant in the central highlands people, the Merina (3 million) and the Betsileo (2 million); the coastal people are of more clearly African origin.

The largest coastal groups are the Betsimisaraka (1.5 million) and the Tsimihety and Sakalava (700,000 each).

The Malagasy language is of Malayo-Polynesian origin and is generally spoken throughout the island. French is spoken among the educated population of this former French colony. English is becoming more widely spoken and in 2003 the government began a pilot project of introducing the teaching of English into the primary grades of 44 schools, with hopes of taking the project nationwide.

Most people practice traditional religions, which tend to emphasize links between the living and the dead. They believe that the dead join their ancestors in the ranks of divinity and that ancestors are intensely concerned with the fate of their living descendants. The Merina and Betsileo reburial practice of famadihana, or "turning over the dead" celebrate this spiritual communion. In this ritual, relatives' remains are removed from the family tomb, rewrapped in new silk shrouds, and returned to the tomb following festive ceremonies in their honor.

About 45% of the Malagasy are Christian, divided almost evenly between Roman Catholic and Protestant. Many incorporate the cult of the dead with their religious beliefs and bless their dead at church before proceeding with the traditional burial rites. They also may invite a pastor to attend a famadihana. While many Christians continue these practices, others consider them to be superstitions that should be abandoned. Many of the Christian churches are influential in politics. In the coastal regions of the provinces of Mahajanga and Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), Muslims constitute a significant minority. Muslims are divided between those of Malagasy ethnicity, Indo-Pakistanis, and Comorians.

The written history of Madagascar began in the seventh century A.D., when Arabs established trading posts along the northwest coast. European contact began in the 1500s, when Portuguese sea captain Diego Dias sighted the island after his ship became separated from a fleet bound for India. In the late 17th century, the French established trading posts along the east coast. From about 1774 to 1824, it was a favorite haunt for pirates, including Americans, one of whom brought Malagasy rice to South Carolina.

Beginning in the 1790s, Merina rulers succeeded in establishing hegemony over the major part of the island, including the coast. In 1817, the Merina ruler and the British governor of Mauritius concluded a treaty abolishing the slave trade, which had been important in Madagascar's economy. In return, the island received British military and financial assistance. British influence remained strong for several decades, during which the Merina court was converted to Presbyterianism, Congregationalism, and Anglicanism.

The British accepted the imposition of a French protectorate over Madagascar in 1885 in return for eventual control over Zanzibar (now part of Tanzania) and as part of an overall definition of spheres of influence in the area. Absolute French control over Madagascar was established by military force in 1895-96, and the Merina monarchy was abolished.

Malagasy troops fought in France, Morocco, and Syria during World War I. After France fell to the Germans, the Vichy government administered Madagascar. British troops occupied the strategic island in 1942 to preclude its seizure by the Japanese. The Free French received the island from the United Kingdom in 1943.

In 1947, with French prestige at low ebb, a nationalist uprising was suppressed after several months of bitter fighting. The French subsequently established reformed institutions in 1956 under the Loi Cadre (Overseas Reform Act), and Madagascar moved peacefully toward independence. The Malagasy Republic was proclaimed on October 14, 1958, as an autonomous state within the French Community. A period of provisional government ended with the adoption of a constitution in 1959 and full independence on June 26, 1960.

GOVERNMENT

In March1998, Malagasy voters approved a revised Constitution. The principal institutions of the Republic of Madagascar are a presidency, a parliament (National Assembly and Senate), a prime ministry and cabinet, and an independent judiciary. The president is elected by direct universal suffrage for a 5-year term, renewable twice.

The National Assembly consists of 160 representatives elected by direct vote every 5 years. The last election was held in December 2002. The Senate consists of 90 senators, two-thirds elected by local legislators and other Grand Electors and one-third appointed by the president, all for 6-year terms. A prime minister and council of ministers carries out day-to-day management of government. The president appoints the prime minister.

The prime minister and members of Parliament initiate legislation, and the government executes it. The president can dissolve the National Assembly. For its part, the National Assembly can pass a motion of censure and require the prime minister and council of ministers to step down. The Constitutional Court approves the constitutionality of new laws.

Territorial administration is to be determined by legislation. In an effort to decentralize administration, the Constitution calls for the six provinces (faritany) to become autonomous. The six provinces are Antananarivo, Mahajanga, Antsiranana, Toamasina, Fianarantsoa, and Toliary.

Principal Government Officials
Last Updated: 1/30/04

President: Ravalomanana, Marc

Prime Minister: Sylla, Jacques

Vice Prime Min. for Transportation, Public Works, & Regional Administration: Ramandimbiarison, Zazah

Min. of Agriculture & Animal Husbandry: Andriarimanana, Harrison

Min. of Civil Service, Labor, & Social Laws: Razafindralambo, Vola Dieudonne, Dr.

Min. of Commerce & Consumer Affairs: Ralison, Alphonse

Min. of Communication: Rakotoarivelo, Mamy

Min. of Defense: Behajaina, Petera, Gen.

Min. of Economy, Finance, & Budget: Radavidson, Andriamparany

Min. of Education: Razafinjatovo, Hajanirina

Min. of Energy & Mines: Rabarison, Jacquis

Min. of Environment: Rabotoarison, Charles Sylvain, Gen.

Min. of Foreign Affairs: Ranjeva, Marcel, Gen.

Min. of Health: Rasamindrakotroka, Andry

Min. of Higher Education: Ranjivason, Jean Theodore

Min. of Industry & Handicrafts: Razafimihary, Mejamirado

Min. of Interior: Soja, Andre

Min. of Justice: Ratshiharivala, Henriette

Min. of Labor & Social Affairs: Rodelys, Maharavo

Min. of Population: Andriampanjava, Jacob Felicien

Min. of Posts & Telecommunications: Clermont, Mahazaka

Min. of Public Works: Lahiniriko, Jean

Min. of Scientific Research: Edouard, Alidina

Min. of Technical & Professional Education: Blaise, Zoana

Min. of Tourism & Culture: Rabenirina, Jacques

Min. of Urban & Regional Planning: Reboza, Julien

Min. of Waters & Forests: Oneste, Alibay Jonshon

Min. of Youth & Sports: Randrianjatovo, Henri Francois

Sec. of State for Decentralization: Eniavosoa,

Sec. of State for Fisheries & Ocean Resources: Hippolyte, Rarison Ramaroson, RAdm.

Sec. of State for Foreign Trade: Rakotonirainy, Henri

Sec. of State for Public Security: Razakanirina, Lucien Victor, Gen.

Governor, Central Bank: Ravelojaona, Gaston

Ambassador to the US: Andrianarivelo, Narisoa

Permanent Representative to the UN, New York: Andrianarivelo Razafy, Zina

Madagascar maintains an embassy in the United States at 2374 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 (tel. 202-265-5525).

POLITICAL CONDITIONS

Madagascar's first President, Philibert Tsiranana, was elected when his Social Democratic Party gained power at independence in 1960 and was reelected without opposition in March 1972. However, he resigned only 2 months later in response to massive antigovernment demonstrations. The unrest continued, and Tsiranana's successor, Gen. Gabriel Ramanantsoa, resigned on February 5, 1975, handing over executive power to Lt. Col. Richard Ratsimandrava, who was assassinated 6 days later. A provisional military directorate then ruled until a new government was formed in June 1975, under Didier Ratsiraka.

During the 16 subsequent years of President Ratsiraka's rule, Madagascar continued under a government committed to revolutionary socialism based on the 1975 Constitution establishing a highly centralized state. National elections in 1982 and 1989 returned Ratsiraka for a second and third 7-year presidential term. For much of this period, only limited and restrained political opposition was tolerated, with no direct criticism of the president permitted in the press.

With an easing of restrictions on political expression, beginning in the late 1980s, the Ratsiraka regime came under increasing pressure to make fundamental changes. In response to a deteriorating economy, Ratsiraka relaxed socialist economic policies and instituted some liberal, private-sector reforms. These, along with political reforms like the elimination of press censorship in 1989 and the formation of more political parties in 1990, were insufficient to placate a growing opposition movement known as Hery Velona or "Active Forces." A number of already existing political parties and their leaders, among them Albert Zafy and Rakotoniaina Manandafy, anchored this movement which was especially strong in Antananarivo and the surrounding high plateau.

In response to largely peaceful mass demonstrations and crippling general strikes, Ratsiraka replaced his prime minister in August 1991 but suffered an irreparable setback soon thereafter when his troops fired on peaceful demonstrators marching on his suburban palace, killing more than 30.

In an increasingly weakened position, Ratsiraka acceded to negotiations on the formation of a transitional government. The resulting "Panorama Convention" of October 31, 1991, stripped Ratsiraka of nearly all of his powers, created interim institutions, and set an 18-month timetable for completing a transition to a new form of constitutional government. The High Constitutional Court was retained as the ultimate judicial arbiter of the process.

In March 1992, a widely representative National Forum organized by the Malagasy Christian Council of Churches (FFKM) drafted a new Constitution. Troops guarding the proceedings clashed with pro-Ratsiraka "federalists" who tried to disrupt the forum in protest of draft constitutional provisions preventing the incumbent president from running again. The text of the new Constitution was put to a nationwide referendum in August 1992 and approved by a wide margin, despite efforts by federalists to disrupt balloting in several coastal areas.

Presidential elections were held on November 25, 1992, after the High Constitutional Court had ruled, over active forces objections, that Ratsiraka could become a candidate. Runoff elections were held in February 1993, and the leader of the Hery Velona movement, Albert Zafy, defeated Ratsiraka. Zafy was sworn in as President on March 27, 1993. After President Zafy's impeachment by the National Assembly in 1996 and the short quasi-presidency of Norbert Ratsirahonana, the 1997 elections once again pitted Zafy and Ratsiraka, with Ratsiraka this time emerging victorious. A National Assembly dominated by members of President Ratsiraka'a political party AREMA subsequently passed the 1998 Constitution, which considerably strengthened the presidency.

In December 2001, a presidential election was held in which both major candidates claimed victory. The Ministry of the Interior declared incumbent Ratsiraka of the AREMA party victorious. Marc Ravalomanana contested the results and claimed victory. A political crisis followed in which Ratsiraka supporters cut major transport routes from the primary port city to the capital city, a stronghold of Ravalomanana support. Sporadic violence and considerable economic disruption continued until July 2002 when Ratsiraka and several of his prominent supporters fled to exile in France. In addition to political differences, ethnic differences played a role in the crisis and continue to play a role in politics. Ratsiraka is from the Betsimisarka tribe of Toamasina. Ravalomanana comes from the Merina tribe of Antananarivo.

After the end of the 2002 political crisis, President Ravalomanana began many reform projects, forcefully advocating "rapid and durable development" and the launching of a battle against corruption. December 2002
legislative elections gave his newly formed TIM (Tiako-i-Madagasikara—I Love Madagascar) Party a commanding majority in the National Assembly. In November 2003 municipal elections for mayors were held in two rounds (one rural, one urban). Results were still being counted at the time of this writing. The first phase of the November 2003 elections was held in a calm, workman-like atmosphere that bespeaks the Ravalomanana' government's growing mastery of the intricacies of election organization on a national scale.

Following the crisis of 2002, the President replaced provincial governors with appointed PDSs (Presidents des Delegations Speciales). Plans to decentralize governmental powers are still in process, and some powers are, indeed, being devolved to local and provincial levels.

ECONOMY

Successive Malagasy Governments have liberalized economic structures, initially under pressure form international financial institutions but increasingly of their own accord. An initial privatization program (1988-1993) and the development of an export processing zone (EPZ) regime in the early 1990s were key milestones in this effort. A period of significant stagnation from 1991-96 was followed by 5 years of solid economic growth and accelerating foreign investment, driven by a second wave of privatizations and EPZ development. A 6-month political crisis triggered by a dispute over the outcome of the presidential elections held in December 2001 virtually halted economic activity in much of the country in the first half of 2002. Real GDP dropped 12.7% for the year 2002, inflows of foreign investment dropped sharply, and the crisis tarnished Madagascar's budding reputation as an AGOA standout and a promising place to invest. The crisis was resolved, and President Ravalomanana launched ambitious recovery programs, including multiple efforts to restore the confidence of the private sector.

Post-crisis confidence-building measures included a recovery plan developed in collaboration with the private sector and donors and presented at a "Friends of Madagascar" conference organized by the World Bank in Paris in July 2002. Donor countries demonstrated a high level of confidence in the new government by pledging $1 billion in assistance over 5 years. The Malagasy Government identified road infrastructure as its principle priority and underlined its commitment to public-private partnership by establishing a joint public-private sector steering committee. The government also advanced the preparation of its Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) through a broad consultative process, holding a national workshop in March 2003 to discuss the draft. The document has now been approved by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Foreign trips by President Ravalomanana to Germany, Switzerland, France, and the United States doubled as trade missions through the participation of Malagasy economic operators. The Malagasy Government worked cooperatively with the U.S. Embassy and private sector organizations to conduct a "Madagascar Day" event in Johannesburg in December 2002 targeted at U.S. firms in South Africa; an "AGOA in Madagascar" conference in January 2003; and to host in November 2003 a "Trade Mission" which produced 12 Memoranda of Understanding between U.S. firms and Malagasy public and private sector entities. At the November 2003 "Friends of Madagascar I I" conference, major donor nations and institutions expressed satisfaction with the government's macroeconomic strategy, applauded the country's projected 9% real GDP growth rate, and noted that the government was on track with IMF Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) targets.

In 2000, Madagascar embarked on the preparation of a Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP) under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. The boards of the IMF and World Bank concurred in December 2000 that the country is eligible under the HIPC Initiative, and Madagascar has reached the decision point for debt relief. On March 1, 2001, the IMF Board granted the country $103 million for 2001-03 under the PRGF. Resources freed up from HIPC will be directed toward improving access to health, education, rural roads, water, and direct support to communities. In addition, on March 7, 2001, the Paris Club approved a debt cancellation of $161 million. On February 28, 2001, the African Development Bank approved under the HIPC a debt cancellation of $71.46 million and granted in June 2001 an additional credit of $20 million to fight against AIDS and poverty. In October 2003 the U.S. Government sent the Government of Madagascar a draft bilateral agreement to implement interim debt relief. Another agreement will be required to implement debt forgiveness upon Madagascar's completion of its poverty reduction program. The World Bank will review both that program and the Bank's Country Assistance Strategy, to which it is closely related, in November 2003. The IMF Board is scheduled to review Madagascar's performance under the PRGF in December 2003.

The political crisis of 2002 seriously hampered economic growth, and some infrastructure was damaged. Macroeconomic figures document the impact of the 2002 political crisis. The current account deficit as a percentage of GDP reached 5.9% in 2002 as compared with 1.3% in 2001 due primarily to a 50% fall in exports. Real GDP contracted by over 12%. The inflation rate hit 15.8%. Foreign investor confidence was shaken. Recognizing that fact, the Ravalomanana government quickly put in place business-friendly economic and financial policies and began to actively solicit foreign investment. Those policies build upon Madagascar's traditional appeal to investors, which stems from its competitive, trainable work force. More than 200 investors, particularly garment manufacturers, have organized under the country's Export Processing Zone (EPZ) system since it was established in 1989. The absence of quota limits on textile imports to the European market under the Lome Convention has helped stimulate this growth. In addition, Madagascar's eligibility for AGOA has significantly increased Malagasy exports to the U.S. and foreign investment in Madagascar. The Madagascar-U.S. Business Council was formed in Madagascar in 2002. In 2003, The U.S.-Madagascar Business Council was formed in the United States in May 2003, and the two organizations continue to explore ways to work for the benefit of both groups.

Partial figures for 2003 show that Madagascar's economic performance is expected to improve dramatically in 2003. The current account deficit as a percentage of GDP should fall to 4.3% as exports have rebounded to their pre-crisis level. Final figures are expected to show a significant increase in exports. Real GDP growth is projected to reach 9%. The inflation rate has fallen to less than 2% and could average zero for the calendar year. Madagascar's debt ratio, which had reached 46% in 1996, is estimated at 15.4% in 2000. Within an overall framework of poverty reduction, the HIPC Initiative would enable the country to reduce its debt service ratio to 5.5% in 2003, and remain at around 5% throughout the projection period 2000-19.

The government of President Ravalomanana is aggressively seeking foreign investment and is tackling many of the obstacles to such investment, including combating corruption, reforming land-ownership laws, encouraging study of American and European business techniques, and active pursuit of foreign investors. President Ravalomanana rose to prominence through his agro-foods TIKO company, and is known for attempting to apply many of the lessons learned in the world of business to running the government.

FOREIGN RELATIONS

While Madagascar has historically been perceived as on the margin of mainstream African affairs, in July 2003 it eagerly rejoined the African Union after a 14-month hiatus triggered by the 2002 political crisis. From 1978 until 1991, then-President Ratsiraka emphasized independence and nonalignment and followed an "all points" policy stressing ties with socialist and radical regimes, including North Korea, Cuba, Libya, and Iran. Taking office in 1993, President Albert Zafy expressed his desire for diplomatic relations with all countries. Early in his tenure, he established formal ties with South Korea and sent emissaries to Morocco.

Starting in 1997, globalization encouraged the government and President Ratsiraka to adhere to market-oriented policies and to engage world markets. External relations reflect this trend, although Madagascar's physical isolation and strong traditional insular orientation have limited its activity in regional economic organizations and relations with its East African neighbors. It enjoys closer and generally good relations with its Indian Ocean neighbors—Mauritius, Réunion, and the Comoros Islands. Active relationships with Europe, especially France, Germany, and Switzerland, as well as with Britain, Russia, Japan, India, and China have been strong since independence.

President Ravalomanana has stated that he welcomes relations with all countries interested in helping Madagascar to develop. He has consciously sought to strengthen relations with Anglophone countries as a means of balancing traditionally strong French influence.

U.S.-MALAGASY RELATIONS

Relations with the United States date to the middle 1800s. The two countries concluded a commercial convention in 1867 and a treaty of peace, friendship, and commerce in 1881. Traditionally warm relations suffered considerably during the 1970s, when Madagascar expelled the U.S. ambassador, closed a NASA tracking station, and nationalized two U.S. oil companies. In 1980, relations at the ambassadorial level were restored.

Throughout the troubled period, commercial and cultural relations remained active. In 1990, Madagascar was designated as a priority aid recipient, and assistance increased from $15 million in 1989 to $40 million in 1993. Recent U.S. assistance has contributed to a population census and family planning programs; conservation of Madagascar's remarkable biodiversity, private sector development, agriculture, democracy and governance initiatives; and media training. The Ravalomanana government is especially positive about ties with the United States.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials

Antananarivo (E), 14 & 16, rue Rainitovo Antsahavola Antananarivo 101, Republic of Madagascar, Tel [261] (20) 22-21257 or 22-20956, Cellular [261] 030-23-80900, Fax 22-34539. Work Week: Mon-Thur, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m; Fri, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Last Modified: Monday, December 22, 2003

TRAVEL

Consular Information Sheet
January 6, 2004

Country Description: Madagascar, also known as the "Great Red Island," is a developing island nation off the east coast of Africa. The primary languages are French and Malagasy. French is not generally spoken outside of major cities. Antananarivo, the capital, enjoys a temperate climate, but the island has a wide range of microclimates ranging from rain forests in the northeast to desert in the southwest. Facilities for tourism are available, but vary in quality.

Entry Requirements: A passport and visa are required. Visas should be obtained in advance, although airport visas are available in Antananarivo, the only city with a major international airport. Limited international flights to/from nearby islands of Comoros, Mayotte and Reunion fly from airports in Mahajanga, Toamasina, Nosy Be and Antsiranana. Travelers who opt to obtain an airport visa should expect delays upon arrival. Evidence of yellow fever immunization is required for all travelers who have been in an infected zone within 6 months of their arrival in Madagascar.

Travelers may obtain the latest information and details on entry requirements from the Embassy of the Republic of Madagascar, 2374 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008; telephone (202) 265-5525/6; website http://www.embassy.org/madagascar; or the Malagasy Consulate in New York City, (212) 986-9491. Honorary consuls are located in Philadelphia, San Diego, and Houst on. Overseas, inquiries may be made at the nearest Malagasy embassy or consulate.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

Safety and Security: Madagascar completed a transition to a multiparty democracy in 1993 and held an orderly presidential election in 1996. The disputed 2001 presidential election resulted in numerous, large demonstrations and scattered violence. President Marc Ravalomanana consolidated his position in mid-2002, and calm has returned to Madagascar. Legislative elections were held in December 2002 without violence. Municipal elections held in November 2003 were mostly uneventful, although some small-scale disturbances occurred in the western port city of Mahajanga. Travelers should maintain security awareness at all times and should avoid political gatherings and street demonstrations.

Taking photographs of airports or military installations is prohibited.

Crime: The major concerns for visitors to Antananarivo are crimes of opportunity such as pick-pocketing and purse snatching, and theft from residences and vehicles. Although these are generally non-violent, incidents involving violence by assailants, particularly when the victim resists, do take place especially, when the victim is confronted by multiple persons. To reduce the risk of being victimized, travel in groups and avoid wearing expensive jewelry in public. Valuable items should never be left in an unattended vehicle. Walking at night, whether alone or in a group, is not considered safe in urban areas, including in the vicinity of Western-standard hotels. Organized gangs of bandits are known to patrol areas where foreigners who are perceived to be wealthy congregate. Although crimes such as burglary do occur in areas outside the capital, the threat of confrontational crime is less common in rural areas.

In May 1999, there was a series of robberies at Libanona Beach and Peak Saint Louis, in the Fort Dauphin area, perpetrated by a person representing himself as a guide. U.S. citizens should hire only an authorized guide and be cautious when visiting Libanona Beach, Peak Saint Louis, or other isolated areas.

The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The pamphlets A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa provide useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general. Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.gpoaccess.gov, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

Medical Facilities: There are foreign physicians in Antananarivo representing a broad range of specialties. The hospitals in Antananarivo vary greatly in standards of care. Medical care outside of Antananarivo has not been evaluated, and caution and good judgment should be exercised when seeking hospital and medical services. A Seventh Day Adventist dental clinic offers emergency procedures, a laboratory and x-ray facilities.

Medications, generally of French origin, are readily available in Antananarivo. If one needs to refill a prescription from home, it is important to carry a prescription from your personal doctor listing the medicine's generic name. Outside of Antananarivo, medications may not be available. Travelers should have a supply of any needed medication before arriving in Madagascar. Americans who will be carrying medications with them to Madagascar should contact the Malagasy Embassy in Washington, DC regarding any restrictions on imports.

Medical Insurance: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and insurance companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.

When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the United States may cost well in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page.

Other Health Information: Malaria is prevalent, particularly in the coastal regions. There is also a high reported incidence of sexually transmitted diseases.

Travelers should drink bottled water or carbonated beverages. Local water is not potable. Water purification tablets may be used as necessary.

Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Madagascar is provided for general reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Fair
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor to Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor

In Madagascar, one drives on the right side of the road, yielding the right of way to vehicles coming in from the left. Most major intersections and traffic circles have police directing traffic. If a policeman has his back to you at an intersection, you are required to stop. Seat belts, child safety seats, and motorcycle helmets are not required in Madagascar. If you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol your car will be impounded for a few days and you will have to pay a fine. If you are involved in an accident involving injuries and/or deaths, there is a mandatory court case. The losing party of the court case must then pay all costs.

Except for Antananarivo's main streets and a few well-maintained routes to outlying cities, most roads are in disrepair. Night travel by private or public transportation outside Antananarivo is discouraged due to poor lighting and road conditions. Roads tend to be narrow and winding with many one-lane bridges and blind curves. Most vehicles tend to drive in the center of the road unless another vehicle is present. Local practice is to blow the horn before going around a curve, to let others know of one's presence. Few pedestrian crosswalks or working traffic signals exist.

Travel within Antananarivo can be difficult with poor road signage and an abundance of one-way streets.

Taxis are plentiful and are generally reasonably priced. Expect to bargain for the fare prior to getting into the vehicle. Most accidents are pedestrian-related, due to narrow roads and lack of sidewalks on many streets.

Rental cars generally come with a driver who is responsible for maintaining the vehicle and sometimes acts as a tour guide. Public transportation is unreliable and vehicles are poorly maintained. Rail services are very limited and unreliable. Arrangements can be made for a private train to travel to certain destinations.

The Ministry of Public Works, telephone [261](20)22-318-02 is Madagascar's authority responsible for road safety. During an emergency, visitors to Antananarivo can contact local police by telephoning 17, by dialing 22-227-35, or by dialing 030-23-801-40 (cellular). American citizens can also call the U.S. Embassy at 22-212-57/58/59 if assistance is needed in communicating with law enforcement officials. Ambulance services are available in Antananarivo with Espace Medical at 22-625-66 or 22-219-72; with Clinique Ampasanimalo at 22-235-55 or 030-23-801-45 (cellular); or with Polyclinique Ilafy at 22-425-66/69.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service by local carriers at present, or economic authority to operate such service, between the U.S. and Madagascar, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Madagascar's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards.

For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at (618) 229-4801.

Domestic and international air services operate regularly but are subject to delays and occasional breakdowns. Air Madagascar often changes in-country flight schedules, based on how full the flight is, with little or no prior warning to passengers. Overbooking is also common.

Criminal Penalties: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Malagasy law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Madagascar are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Disaster Preparedness: Madagascar is prone to tropical storms. Storm season is generally December through the end of February. Storms primarily affect the coasts, although large storms may reach the capital, Antananarivo. Storms that affect the shipping ports may limit fuel and food supplies elsewhere in the country. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov.

Children's Issues: For information on international adoption of children, international parental child abduction, and international child support enforcement issues, please refer to our Internet site at http://www.travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone (202) 736-7000.

Registration/Embassy Location: U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, and to obtain updated information on travel and security in Madagascar. The U.S. Embassy is located at 14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, Antananarivo. The mailing address is B.P. 620, Antsahavola, Antananarivo, Madagascar; telephone [261] (20) 22-212-57; fax [261] (20) 22-345-39. The Embassy's home page is located at http://www.usmission.mg.