The Malagasy Delegation Presents its Priorities for a Greener Future

Madagascar faces a dual challenge: energy scarcity and environmental degradation. Nearly 90% of the population still uses charcoal for cooking and wood for construction.

Faced with this situation, the country is now seeking to move towards cleaner energy while protecting its natural resources. It is within this context that a Malagasy delegation, led by Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, President of the Refoundation of the Republic, is participating in the Abu Dhabi Sustainable Development Week (ADSW 2026).

Organized by Masdar, a pioneering renewable energy company, the event brings together leaders, investors, and experts from around the world. The goal is to find concrete solutions for more sustainable development. For Madagascar, this participation represents a unique opportunity to strengthen its relations with the United Arab Emirates and to present its energy transition projects.

Before entering the exhibition center, Colonel Randrianirina noted that this international meeting serves to promote strong economic diplomacy, focused on the energy and tourism sectors. The country aims to demonstrate its progress in institutional stability and the implementation of reforms capable of attracting investors.

In his address, the Head of State emphasized that recent difficulties related to water and electricity supply have highlighted the need to strengthen the national energy sector. He indicated that the country’s development success will depend on access to sufficient and sustainable energy. According to him, Madagascar possesses significant natural resources, including sun, wind, and water, but still requires appropriate technical and financial means to fully harness them.

The country now intends to gradually replace thermal power plants with hybrid and renewable energy solutions. Colonel Randrianirina commended the United Arab Emirates’ experience in this area and their investment of over $4.5 billion in Africa. “We don’t see them as mere investors, but as long-term partners,” he stated.

During the four days of the ADSW, the delegation participated in several panels and bilateral meetings. The Malagasy representatives presented concrete projects to attract funding, strengthen technical cooperation, and encourage the development of modern energy infrastructure. Discussions also focused on training young Malagasy people for careers related to sustainable energy.