Madagascar

National name: Repoblikan’i Madagasikara

Government
Multiparty republic.

Geography
Madagascar lies in the Indian Ocean off the southeast coast of Africa opposite Mozambique. The world’s fourth-largest island. The country’s low-lying coastal area gives way to a central plateau. The once densely wooded interior has largely been cut down.

Historical Background
Formerly an independent kingdom, Madagascar became a French colony in 1896, but regained its independence in 1960. During 1992-93, free presidential and National Assembly elections were held, ending 17 years of single-party rule. In 1997, in the second presidential race, Didier RATSIRAKA, the leader during the 1970s and 1980s, was returned to the presidency. The 2001 presidential election was contested between the followers of Didier RATSIRAKA and Marc RAVALOMANANA, nearly causing secession of half of the country. In April 2002, the High Constitutional Court announced RAVALOMANANA the winner.

Facts & Figures

Name

MADAGASCAR

Capital

Antananarivo

Government

Caretaker government

Language

Malagasy, French

Religion

Approximately 50% of the country's population practice traditional religion,

Area

587,041 km2 (45th) 226,597 sq mi 

Population

2009 estimate 20,653,556[2] (55th) 1993 census 12,238,914

Currency

Malagasy ariary (MGA)