05 Oct 2026

Madagascar’s President Colonel Michaël Randrianirina has urged Malagasy living abroad to remain united and avoid allowing political differences to divide them, saying the diaspora has an important role to play in the country’s development.

Speaking during a meeting with the Malagasy community in Gaborone on Saturday, Mr Randrianirina said national unity was essential as Madagascar worked to address the political and institutional challenges facing the country.

He acknowledged that political differences existed within Malagasy society but urged citizens, including those living abroad, to focus on finding solutions rather than deepening divisions.

President Randrianirina said his engagement with Malagasy communities outside the country was intended to listen to their concerns, receive criticism, and gather ideas that could contribute to Madagascar’s development.

The meeting also highlighted the role of the diaspora in supporting Madagascar’s economic progress. 

President Randrianirina encouraged the diaspora to remain connected to their home country and contribute through investment, expertise, business, and other forms of economic engagement.

Members of the Malagasy community in Botswana, many of whom work with regional institutions, raised concerns about Madagascar’s engagement with the Southern African Development Community (SADC). 

They called for stronger communication between Madagascar’s government institutions and SADC structures.

The community also highlighted the need to ease movement between Madagascar and Botswana, particularly through more accessible visa arrangements.

They argued that improved mobility could help expand trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Agriculture was cited as an area with significant potential for greater cooperation, with participants pointing to opportunities for Madagascar to improve the distribution and export of agricultural produce to markets in the region.

President Randrianirina’s meeting with the diaspora formed part of his state visit to Botswana, during which he also held talks with President Duma Boko on strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

The visit comes as Madagascar seeks to deepen its engagement with SADC and strengthen cooperation with countries in the region. ends