RN6 urgently requires restoration

In recent weeks, the population of northern Madagascar has grappled with soaring food prices, a repercussion of Cyclone Gamane’s passage, which forced the closure of the vital RN6 route. This closure has triggered product shortages and price spikes in local markets.

This surge particularly impacts staple items like rice, oil, and vegetables. Cyclone-related devastation has already weakened households’ purchasing power. The rehabilitation of RN6, the sole artery linking the island’s north to other regions, is underway, disrupting road traffic and local commerce.

Moreover, the escalation in prices has ramifications for transportation costs. With RN6 closed, maritime transport becomes essential for sourcing supplies from local sources. Products transit from Ankify port to Antsiranana, while Nosy Be relies on Ankify for supplies, subsequently routed to Ampasindava. Reports from Antsiranana highlight exorbitant prices: two carrots fetch 1,500 MGA, a tomato costs 1,000 MGA, and two onions are priced at 2,000 MGA. Additionally, imported rice floods the market, commanding 1,000 MGA per cup. The Regional Directorate of Industrialization and Trade (DRIC) oversees product distribution.

Regular surveys by DRIC and SPM monitor market price dynamics, especially concerning rice. Rice prices are anticipated to stabilize as supply remains steady, with no imminent shortage expected.