Population
As of 2021, Madagascar is home to approximately 28.92 million people.
Language
The official languages of Madagascar are Malagasy and French. We advise that you have a translator app on your phone as English is not widely spoken.
Religion
The majority (85%) of Malagasy are Christian, 3% are Muslim, 4.5% are followers of traditional beliefs and 6.9% identify as having no religious practices or beliefs.
National Holiday
Madagascar celebrates its National Day (the day that it gained independence from France in 1960) on the 26th of June.
Holiday Calendar
1st January: New Year's Day
29th March: Martyrs Day
Monday after Easter Sunday: Easter Monday
1st May: Labour Day
3rd May: Eid ul-Fitr
26th May: Ascension Day
6th June: Whit Monday
26th June: Independence Day
10th July: Eid Al Adha
15th August: Assumption Day
1st November: All Saints' Day
25th December: Christmas Day
History
Madagascar's first settlers arrived around 2,000 years ago, and were of Indonesian or mixed Indonesian/African descent. Arab traders entered the scene in 800-900 A.D., initiating trade along the northern coast. The 1500s marked Madagascar's Feudal Era, with battles among immigrant groups vying for control. Despite attempts by the Portuguese, French, Dutch and English to establish trade settlements, the fierce resistance of local Malagasy warriors thwarted their efforts. The West was ruled by the Sakalavas in the 1700s, while the Merina took over the rest of the island in 1810. The Merina, with ties to English missionaries, played a role in spreading Christianity. In 1896, France established colonial rule after an invasion in 1883. Following uprisings in 1918 and 1947, Madagascar regained independence in 1960.
Politics
Madagascar is a semi-presidential representative democratic republic; the President serves as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The government wields executive power.
Etiquette
Greeting men and woman with a handshake is the norm in Madagascar and you'll notice that when you're engaged in a conversation with a local, they will often touch your arm, shoulder or elbow. But while personal space might not be as respected, prolonged eye contact is less typical and is often reserved as a gesture of respect.
Food
A staple Malagasy dish is centred around rice with a modest amount of sauce, vegetables and meat. Due to its island setting, Madagascar has wonderful fresh seafood, offering lobster, diverse fish and exquisite shellfish prominently featured in coastal menus. For the meat lovers, zebu (beef) steak served with a flavourful green peppercorn sauce is a must try. Malagasy dishes generally aren't heavily spiced, but for a zesty kick, try sakay, a chili relish readily available - be careful, as this dish does pack quite the spicy punch.
Drink
It's strongly recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Madagascar and opt exclusively for bottled water. To drink like a local, try ranonapango (burned rice water), a popular soft drink. For those who drink alcohol, try a shot of litchel-an aperitif made from lychees.
