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Madagascar

Madagascar 2023 IFRC network annual report, Jan-Dec (7 August 2024)

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Madagascar is the largest island in the Indian Ocean with an area of 591,896 square kilometres. Its population is about 28 million with an annual growth rate of about 3 per cent. The country possesses significant potential in natural resources. Despite this abundance, Madagascar remains one of the poorest nations globally. Political instability, weak institutions and poor governance have impeded the country’s economic progress. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic and assorted disasters impacting Madagascar have worsened the deceleration of the nation’s economy. Presently, as per the World Bank, 81 per cent of Malagasy individuals live below the poverty threshold of 1.9 USD/ capita/day.

The current famine in the country’s southern region represents a significant issue. Poor living conditions, particularly related to sanitation and hygiene, have led to a reduced life expectancy for Malagasy citizens. According to WaterAid Madagascar, around 70 per cent of the population lacks proper sanitation, and 89 per cent do not have access to modernized toilets. Consequently, there is a high risk of major infectious diseases spreading among the population. Additionally, over half of the country’s children suffer from severe malnutrition. The country is also highly susceptible to climatic upheavals, including hurricanes, floods, locust infestations and public health emergencies. The southern region of the country is grappling with security troubles due to armed cattle thefts.