A tropical cyclone that swept across the island of Madagascar killed at least 20 people and displaced thousands more. On the flipside, there is a cycle of extreme weather, mostly drought in southern Africa which has left some 20 million facing hunger.

Cyclone Gamane wreaks havoc in Madagascar

Madagascar's Parliament has passed a law which allows chemical and, in some cases, surgical castration of those found guilty of raping a minor.&nbsp;

The move has prompted criticism from international rights groups, but activists in the country have supported it. The activists claim that the move is an appropriate deterrent to curb a "rape culture".&nbsp;

The law was passed on February 2, and the Senate, the upper house, ratified it last week. Now, the High Constitutional Court must validate it by signing it into law by President Andry Rajoelina.&nbsp;

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The topic was initially brought up in December by the president and his government sought a legal amendment in the island nation of 28 million people.&nbsp;

According to Justice Minister Landy Mbolatiana Randriamanantenasoa, the law is needed due to a rise in child rape cases.&nbsp;

In a report by the news agency The Associated Press, she stated that 600 incidences of rape of minors were registered in 2023, with 133 occurring as early as January this year.&nbsp;

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As quoted, she said, "Madagascar is a sovereign country which has the right to modify its laws in relation to circumstances and in the general interest of the people. The current penal code has not been enough to curb the perpetrators of these offences."&nbsp;

The law noted that surgical castration "will always be pronounced" for those guilty of raping a child under the age of 10.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the cases of rape against children between the ages of 10 and 13 will be punished by surgical or chemical castration. The rape of minors aged between 14 and 17 will be punished by chemical castration.&nbsp;

Randriamanantenasoa said, "We wanted to protect children much more. The younger the child, the greater the punishment."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Mauritius' Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India-Mauritius ties

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<h2>The law faces criticism&nbsp;</h2>

The law has been criticised by the rights group Amnesty International, which termed it as "inhuman and degrading treatment" that was inconsistent with the country's constitutional laws.&nbsp;

Nciko wa Nciko, an adviser for Madagascar at Amnesty, said that the law should rather focus on protecting victims.&nbsp;

"On the island, complaint procedures and trials are not carried out anonymously. There is a lack of confidence in the Malagasy criminal justice system, due to opacity and corruption. And reprisals against rape victims are frequent. However, the law does not combat these factors," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Madagascar's Parliament has passed a law which allows chemical and, in some cases, surgical castration of those found guilty of raping a minor. The move has prompted criticism from international rights groups, but activists in the country have supported it.

Madagascar's Parliament has passed a law which allows chemical and, in some cases, surgical castration of those found guilty of raping a minor. The move has prompted criticism from international rights groups, but activists in the country have supported it. The activists claim that the move is an appropriate deterrent to curb a "rape culture". The law was passed on February 2, and the Senate, the upper house, ratified it last week. Now, the High Constitutional Court must validate it by signing it into law by President Andry Rajoelina. Also read: UK politician apologises for claiming Israel ‘allowed’ October 7 attack The topic was initially brought up in December by the president and his government sought a legal amendment in the island nation of 28 million people. According to Justice Minister Landy Mbolatiana Randriamanantenasoa, the law is needed due to a rise in child rape cases. In a report by the news agency The Associated Press, she stated that 600 incidences of rape of minors were registered in 2023, with 133 occurring as early as January this year. Also read: Infant girl dies in Kansas City after mother mistakenly puts her in oven instead of crib As quoted, she said, "Madagascar is a sovereign country which has the right to modify its laws in relation to circumstances and in the general interest of the people. The current penal code has not been enough to curb the perpetrators of these offences." The law noted that surgical castration "will always be pronounced" for those guilty of raping a child under the age of 10. Meanwhile, the cases of rape against children between the ages of 10 and 13 will be punished by surgical or chemical castration. The rape of minors aged between 14 and 17 will be punished by chemical castration. Randriamanantenasoa said, "We wanted to protect children much more. The younger the child, the greater the punishment." Watch: Mauritius' Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India-Mauritius ties × The law faces criticism The law has been criticised by the rights group Amnesty International, which termed it as "inhuman and degrading treatment" that was inconsistent with the country's constitutional laws. Nciko wa Nciko, an adviser for Madagascar at Amnesty, said that the law should rather focus on protecting victims. "On the island, complaint procedures and trials are not carried out anonymously. There is a lack of confidence in the Malagasy criminal justice system, due to opacity and corruption. And reprisals against rape victims are frequent. However, the law does not combat these factors," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Madagascar to castrate child rapists after parliament passes controversial law

Voting has ended in Madagascar’s presidential election after a turbulent campaign period marred by boycotts and allegations of election irregularities.

Madagascar Polls: Round 1 voting concludes

There’s a lot at stake in Madagascar. The incumbent president, Andry Rajoelina, is facing a turbulent path to re-election as protests and legal challenges rock the political landscape. Rajoelina, who has held a firm grip on power for years, is determined to continue his tenure. Despite a history of ups and downs, he remains resolute in his quest for re-election

Madagascar: Rajoelina optimistic of being re-elected | World of Africa

Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country.

Angelo Ravelonarivo, the police prefect in the capital, during a media briefing, said that the decision to adopt the measure was taken after "various acts of sabotage".

It follows "various acts of sabotage" including the "burning of a polling station", he said.

He said that the curfew would come into force at 09:00 pm (1800 GMT) on Wednesday and last until 04:00 am the next day.

The elections are scheduled to open at 06:00 am and close at 05:00 pm on Thursday (Nov 16). This comes after more than a month of staged street demonstrations.

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The Indian Ocean island nation has been dazed by a ferocious battle between President Andry Rajoelina, who is running for re-election, and most opposition leaders, who have claimed that an "institutional coup" was in favour of the incumbent.&nbsp;

<h2>Opposition candidates call on voters to disregard elections</h2>

Out of 12 opposition candidates, nearly 10 on Tuesday (Nov 14), urged the voters to disregard the elections taking into consideration the vote's regularity.

"We appeal to everyone not to vote. Conditions for a transparent presidential election, accepted by all, have not been met," said Roland Ratsiraka, one of the protesting candidates.

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"We do not want to participate in this fraud, it is a joke on Madagascar."

Since October, the opposition leaders have illegally staged street demonstrations in the capital city that have on an average drawn a dozen supporters and have been regularly dispersed by police.

Rajoelina, 49, has rebuffed criticism and expressed confidence that he will win another term in the first round.

His government has repeatedly denounced the protests as moved by a "desire to overthrow power" and to "sabotage the electoral process", accusing the opposition of "threatening the stability of the country".

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country.

Amid heightened political tensions, authorities in Madagascar imposed a curfew on Wednesday (Nov 15) a day ahead of the presidential elections scheduled on Thursday (Nov 16), after a majority of opposition candidates boycotted the polls in the country. Angelo Ravelonarivo, the police prefect in the capital, during a media briefing, said that the decision to adopt the measure was taken after "various acts of sabotage". It follows "various acts of sabotage" including the "burning of a polling station", he said. He said that the curfew would come into force at 09:00 pm (1800 GMT) on Wednesday and last until 04:00 am the next day. The elections are scheduled to open at 06:00 am and close at 05:00 pm on Thursday (Nov 16). This comes after more than a month of staged street demonstrations. Also read: Greenhouse gas concentration hit record high in 2022: UN The Indian Ocean island nation has been dazed by a ferocious battle between President Andry Rajoelina, who is running for re-election, and most opposition leaders, who have claimed that an "institutional coup" was in favour of the incumbent. Opposition candidates call on voters to disregard elections Out of 12 opposition candidates, nearly 10 on Tuesday (Nov 14), urged the voters to disregard the elections taking into consideration the vote's regularity. "We appeal to everyone not to vote. Conditions for a transparent presidential election, accepted by all, have not been met," said Roland Ratsiraka, one of the protesting candidates. Also read: Watch | Earthquakes in Iceland cause massive cracks on roads, smoke rises from ground "We do not want to participate in this fraud, it is a joke on Madagascar." Since October, the opposition leaders have illegally staged street demonstrations in the capital city that have on an average drawn a dozen supporters and have been regularly dispersed by police. Rajoelina, 49, has rebuffed criticism and expressed confidence that he will win another term in the first round. His government has repeatedly denounced the protests as moved by a "desire to overthrow power" and to "sabotage the electoral process", accusing the opposition of "threatening the stability of the country". (With inputs from agencies)

Madagascar imposes curfew in Antananarivo ahead of presidential elections

Six prominent presidential candidates in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;told AFP on Monday they plan to boycott this week's elections, worsening a political crisis engulfing the country.

The six, who are part of a larger grouping of opposition candidates holding almost daily protests for weeks, said they will not take part in Thursday's vote and will urge their supporters not to cast their ballot.&nbsp;

"We will call (on people) not to go and vote," said presidential hopeful Marc Ravalomanana, 73, one of two former presidents to join calls for a boycott.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean island nation has been shaken by a fierce battle between President Andry Rajoelina, who is running for re-election, and most opposition leaders.

Almost all the 12 opposition candidates in the running have led near daily, unauthorised marches in Antananarivo, for more than a month, protesting at what they have called an "institutional coup" that favours the incumbent.

The demonstrations that have in average drawn a few hundred supporters have been regularly dispersed by police.&nbsp;

On Saturday, security forces fired teargas and detained 11 protesters at yet another rally.&nbsp;

"I will not stand for election, that is very clear," said Hery Rajaonarimampianina, 65, another former president who was in the running to replace Rajoelina.&nbsp;

Last week, the head of the lower house of parliament, who leads a mediation group to find a way out of the crisis, called for the suspension of the presidential elections, to ensure "peace" and "harmony".

"The situation is deleterious. There is no calm, it is not the time to hold elections," said candidate Auguste Paraina, 69. The opposition grouping supports a suspension of the electoral process. &nbsp;

But a spokeswoman for Rajoelina called the request a "far-fetched idea".

The outgoing president held his last campaign rally in Antananarivo on Sunday in front of a fervent crowd of several thousand people donning t-shirts bearing his image.

"I'm going to win, that's for sure, and in the first round," he told AFP in an interview at the weekend.

'Rigged vote'&nbsp;

Rajoelina, 49, became Africa's youngest head of state in 2009 when he took power on the back of a coup.&nbsp;

After not running in the 2013 election due to international pressure, he was voted back into power in 2018 and has since held the reins in a country that remains among the poorest in the world despite vast natural resources.

The show of support for the president at the weekend "means nothing" said Roland Ratsiraka, 57, another opposition candidate, hinting at the common practice of paying people to attend political rallies in the country.&nbsp;

The European Union, the United States and other members of the international community have expressed "deep concern" at the political tensions and denounced the excessive use of force against the opposition.

A source at&nbsp;Madagascar's electoral commission said some irregularities have already been reported, including some would-be voters being pressured not to register.&nbsp;

The crisis erupted in September after Rajoelina resigned in line with the constitution in order to run for re-election.

The president of the Senate was supposed to take over but declined for "personal reasons", leaving the task to a "collegial government" headed by the prime minister, an ally of Rajoelina.

The move was accepted by the Constitutional Court, which also dismissed appeals to have Rajoelina's candidacy declared void over his dual French nationality, sparking opposition anger.

Detractors believe that under local laws the President was to lose Madagascan nationality and with it the ability to lead the country because of the naturalisation, which was revealed by the media in June.&nbsp;

In Itaosy, an eastern suburb of Antananarivo, a few hundred people joined a peaceful opposition march on Monday.

"It's a rigged vote," said Sandra Rafarasoa, 33, standing outside her modest repair shop for two-wheelers.&nbsp;

Voters in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;were initially due to head to the polls on November 9, but the top court in October ordered that the elections be postponed after a presidential candidate was injured during a demonstration.&nbsp;

The date for a potential second round vote on December 20 was kept unchanged.

Thursday's election "will not take place", said Hajo Andrianainarivelo, 56, another opposition candidate.

Six prominent presidential candidates in Madagascar told AFP on Monday they plan to boycott this week's elections, worsening a political crisis engulfing the country.

Six prominent presidential candidates in Madagascar told AFP on Monday they plan to boycott this week's elections, worsening a political crisis engulfing the country. The six, who are part of a larger grouping of opposition candidates holding almost daily protests for weeks, said they will not take part in Thursday's vote and will urge their supporters not to cast their ballot. "We will call (on people) not to go and vote," said presidential hopeful Marc Ravalomanana, 73, one of two former presidents to join calls for a boycott. The Indian Ocean island nation has been shaken by a fierce battle between President Andry Rajoelina, who is running for re-election, and most opposition leaders. Almost all the 12 opposition candidates in the running have led near daily, unauthorised marches in Antananarivo, for more than a month, protesting at what they have called an "institutional coup" that favours the incumbent. The demonstrations that have in average drawn a few hundred supporters have been regularly dispersed by police. On Saturday, security forces fired teargas and detained 11 protesters at yet another rally. "I will not stand for election, that is very clear," said Hery Rajaonarimampianina, 65, another former president who was in the running to replace Rajoelina. Last week, the head of the lower house of parliament, who leads a mediation group to find a way out of the crisis, called for the suspension of the presidential elections, to ensure "peace" and "harmony". "The situation is deleterious. There is no calm, it is not the time to hold elections," said candidate Auguste Paraina, 69. The opposition grouping supports a suspension of the electoral process. But a spokeswoman for Rajoelina called the request a "far-fetched idea". The outgoing president held his last campaign rally in Antananarivo on Sunday in front of a fervent crowd of several thousand people donning t-shirts bearing his image. "I'm going to win, that's for sure, and in the first round," he told AFP in an interview at the weekend. 'Rigged vote' Rajoelina, 49, became Africa's youngest head of state in 2009 when he took power on the back of a coup. After not running in the 2013 election due to international pressure, he was voted back into power in 2018 and has since held the reins in a country that remains among the poorest in the world despite vast natural resources. The show of support for the president at the weekend "means nothing" said Roland Ratsiraka, 57, another opposition candidate, hinting at the common practice of paying people to attend political rallies in the country. The European Union, the United States and other members of the international community have expressed "deep concern" at the political tensions and denounced the excessive use of force against the opposition. A source at Madagascar's electoral commission said some irregularities have already been reported, including some would-be voters being pressured not to register. The crisis erupted in September after Rajoelina resigned in line with the constitution in order to run for re-election. The president of the Senate was supposed to take over but declined for "personal reasons", leaving the task to a "collegial government" headed by the prime minister, an ally of Rajoelina. The move was accepted by the Constitutional Court, which also dismissed appeals to have Rajoelina's candidacy declared void over his dual French nationality, sparking opposition anger. Detractors believe that under local laws the President was to lose Madagascan nationality and with it the ability to lead the country because of the naturalisation, which was revealed by the media in June. In Itaosy, an eastern suburb of Antananarivo, a few hundred people joined a peaceful opposition march on Monday. "It's a rigged vote," said Sandra Rafarasoa, 33, standing outside her modest repair shop for two-wheelers. Voters in Madagascar were initially due to head to the polls on November 9, but the top court in October ordered that the elections be postponed after a presidential candidate was injured during a demonstration. The date for a potential second round vote on December 20 was kept unchanged. Thursday's election "will not take place", said Hajo Andrianainarivelo, 56, another opposition candidate.

Six presidential candidates in Madagascar call for election boycott

The first round of Madagascar's Presidential election, initially scheduled for November 9, has been postponed by a week following the injury of former President Marc Ravalomanana during an opposition demonstration. The election, in which incumbent president Andry Rajoelina is a candidate, has been in the making for several weeks in a climate that continues to deteriorate.

Madagascar: Opposition candidates protest 'institutional coup' | World Of Africa

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has resigned after he was officially confirmed as a candidate in the Indian Ocean Island nation's presidential elections scheduled for November 9, according to the country's constitutional court.

Madagascar's constitution requires a sitting head of state, who wants to contest a presidential election, to first resign.

Rajoelina sent his resignation letter to the court on Saturday following confirmation of his candidature in the elections, the High Constitutional Court said in a statement late on Saturday.

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The president of the senate is supposed to assume presidential powers when the head of state resigns but the court said the senate head, Herimanana Razafimahefa, had declined to take over.

"For personal reasons, he will not be able to fully exercise the responsibilities that the office of Head of State requires," the court said referring to Razafimahefa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madagascar-fm-calls-indo-pacific-a-legitimate-vision-bats-for-peaceful-military-ties-with-india-474163">Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India</a>

Instead, the court said, presidential power would now be exercised by the government collectively with the prime minister as the head.

Also on Saturday, Madagascar's High Court published the official list of presidential candidates. Of the 28 contenders, 13 were selected, including Rajoelina and two former presidents Marc Ravalomanana and Hery Rajaonarimampianina.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-12-killed-80-injured-in-a-stampede-in-madagascar-capital-antananarivo-629291">At least 12 killed, 80 injured in stampede at stadium in Madagascar capital Antananarivo</a>

Madagascar is hoping for its third peaceful election since the upheaval of 2009, when Rajoelina ousted President Marc Ravalomananain in a coup, prompting an exodus of foreign investors from the Indian Ocean island. 
 
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Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has resigned after he was officially confirmed as a candidate in the Indian Ocean Island nation's presidential elections scheduled for November 9, according to the country's constitutional court.

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has resigned after he was officially confirmed as a candidate in the Indian Ocean Island nation's presidential elections scheduled for November 9, according to the country's constitutional court. Madagascar's constitution requires a sitting head of state, who wants to contest a presidential election, to first resign. Rajoelina sent his resignation letter to the court on Saturday following confirmation of his candidature in the elections, the High Constitutional Court said in a statement late on Saturday. ALSO READ | Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina reportedly survives assassination attempt The president of the senate is supposed to assume presidential powers when the head of state resigns but the court said the senate head, Herimanana Razafimahefa, had declined to take over. "For personal reasons, he will not be able to fully exercise the responsibilities that the office of Head of State requires," the court said referring to Razafimahefa. ALSO READ | Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India Instead, the court said, presidential power would now be exercised by the government collectively with the prime minister as the head. Also on Saturday, Madagascar's High Court published the official list of presidential candidates. Of the 28 contenders, 13 were selected, including Rajoelina and two former presidents Marc Ravalomanana and Hery Rajaonarimampianina. ALSO READ | At least 12 killed, 80 injured in stampede at stadium in Madagascar capital Antananarivo Madagascar is hoping for its third peaceful election since the upheaval of 2009, when Rajoelina ousted President Marc Ravalomananain in a coup, prompting an exodus of foreign investors from the Indian Ocean island. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Madagascar president resigns ahead of polls in November

At least 12 people were killed Friday in a crowd stampede at a stadium in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo, the prime minister of the Indian Ocean nation Christian Ntsay said.

12 dead, over 80 injured in Stadium stampede in Madagascar

At least 12 people were killed, and 80 others injured on Friday (August 25th) in a stampede at a stadium in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo.

The stampede, as per a Xinhua News Agency report citing government sources, happened at the entrance to the Barea stadium in the Madagascan capital, prior to the opening ceremony of the 11th Indian Ocean Games.

Talking to reporters at a hospital in Antananarivo, the nation's Prime Minister Christian Ntsay said: "The provisional toll shows 12 dead and some 80 injured."&nbsp;

<h2>How it happened</h2>

As per AFP, the stampede occurred at the entrance of the Barea stadium, where a crowd of some 50,000 spectators were there for the opening ceremony of the Indian Ocean Island Games.

Red Cross said that the toll which currently stands at 12 may climb. The cause for the stampede is not clear as of now.

Talking to AFP, Antsa Mirado, a communications manager with the Red Cross speculated that "There were a lot of people at the entrance," this as per him may have triggered a stampede.

<h2>The aftermath</h2>

In a televised speech, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina called for a minute of silence for the victims.

Rajoelina, who was present at the opening ceremony, said: "A tragic event occurred because there was pushing. There were injuries and deaths at the entrance."

TV broadcasts show people looking disoriented and surprised as they search for their shoes amid belongings that were scattered during the tragic stampede.

Pictures from within the stadium, shared on social media, show the stands packed with spectators ahead of the Island Games' opening.

The Indian Ocean Island Games are a multidisciplinary sports competition that will be held in Madagascar until September 3rd. For the past 40 years, these games have been organised every four years across various islands in the south-west Indian Ocean. The last edition of the games was held in Mauritius.

(More to follow)

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At least 12 people were killed, and 80 others injured on Friday (August 25th) in a stampede at a stadium in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo. The stampede, as per a Xinhua News Agency report citing government sources, happened at the entrance to the Barea stadium in the Madagascan capital, prior to the opening ceremony of the 11th Indian Ocean Games.

At least 12 people were killed, and 80 others injured on Friday (August 25th) in a stampede at a stadium in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo. The stampede, as per a Xinhua News Agency report citing government sources, happened at the entrance to the Barea stadium in the Madagascan capital, prior to the opening ceremony of the 11th Indian Ocean Games. Talking to reporters at a hospital in Antananarivo, the nation's Prime Minister Christian Ntsay said: "The provisional toll shows 12 dead and some 80 injured." How it happened As per AFP, the stampede occurred at the entrance of the Barea stadium, where a crowd of some 50,000 spectators were there for the opening ceremony of the Indian Ocean Island Games. Red Cross said that the toll which currently stands at 12 may climb. The cause for the stampede is not clear as of now. Talking to AFP, Antsa Mirado, a communications manager with the Red Cross speculated that "There were a lot of people at the entrance," this as per him may have triggered a stampede. The aftermath In a televised speech, Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina called for a minute of silence for the victims. Rajoelina, who was present at the opening ceremony, said: "A tragic event occurred because there was pushing. There were injuries and deaths at the entrance." TV broadcasts show people looking disoriented and surprised as they search for their shoes amid belongings that were scattered during the tragic stampede. Pictures from within the stadium, shared on social media, show the stands packed with spectators ahead of the Island Games' opening. The Indian Ocean Island Games are a multidisciplinary sports competition that will be held in Madagascar until September 3rd. For the past 40 years, these games have been organised every four years across various islands in the south-west Indian Ocean. The last edition of the games was held in Mauritius. (More to follow) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 12 killed, 80 injured in stampede at stadium in Madagascar capital Antananarivo

The president of Madagascar is under fire when documents revealed that Andry Rajoelina is French. The revelation implies that he signed a contract with Paris in 2014 to get French citizenship.

Leaked documents show Madagascar's President to be partially French

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21. The storm initially caused damage in southern Africa in late February, displacing thousands of people in both nations.

It has been whirling over the Indian Ocean for 32 days and may become the longest-lasting storm on record. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) describes the storm's loop as "exceptional" from a meteorological standpoint. Hurricane John, sometimes known as Typhoon John, was the most elongated storm on record, lasting 31 days in 1994.&nbsp;

Given that Cyclone Freddy has been weakening over the previous 32 days, the World Meteorological Organization said it would take several months to determine if it has surpassed John's record. Freddy has already smashed records for its strength and the 8,000-kilometer (5,000-mile) journey across the Indian Ocean.

The cyclone formed off the north Australian coast in early February and travelled hundreds of kilometres across the southern Indian Ocean, impacting Mauritius and La Réunion before the landfall in Madagascar and Mozambique two weeks later.

Mozambique is now ready for a second landfall while dealing with the storm's rains and flooding. According to the UN World Food Programme, Freddy has already touched over 160,000 people. Meanwhile, Madagascar has received around three times its monthly regular rainfall in the last week.

The southwest Indian Ocean has cyclone season from November to April. Environment experts believe climate change is increasing cyclones, making them longer, wetter, and more frequent. After spanning the whole Indian Ocean for a month, Freddy is on track to become the longest-lived tropical cyclone in history, according to the United Nations meteorological organisation.

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21.

After striking Madagascar for the second time on Monday, Cyclone Freddy might make landfall in Mozambique later this week. Four people died on the Indian Ocean island, raising Freddy's death toll to 21. The storm initially caused damage in southern Africa in late February, displacing thousands of people in both nations. It has been whirling over the Indian Ocean for 32 days and may become the longest-lasting storm on record. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) describes the storm's loop as "exceptional" from a meteorological standpoint. Hurricane John, sometimes known as Typhoon John, was the most elongated storm on record, lasting 31 days in 1994. Given that Cyclone Freddy has been weakening over the previous 32 days, the World Meteorological Organization said it would take several months to determine if it has surpassed John's record. Freddy has already smashed records for its strength and the 8,000-kilometer (5,000-mile) journey across the Indian Ocean. The cyclone formed off the north Australian coast in early February and travelled hundreds of kilometres across the southern Indian Ocean, impacting Mauritius and La Réunion before the landfall in Madagascar and Mozambique two weeks later. Mozambique is now ready for a second landfall while dealing with the storm's rains and flooding. According to the UN World Food Programme, Freddy has already touched over 160,000 people. Meanwhile, Madagascar has received around three times its monthly regular rainfall in the last week. The southwest Indian Ocean has cyclone season from November to April. Environment experts believe climate change is increasing cyclones, making them longer, wetter, and more frequent. After spanning the whole Indian Ocean for a month, Freddy is on track to become the longest-lived tropical cyclone in history, according to the United Nations meteorological organisation.

Cyclone Freddy update: After Madagascar, rising alerts in Mozambique; Might set new record with return

Cyclone Freddy struck Madagascar late on Feb 21 with gusts of up to 180 km per hour. The storm has displaced 11,047 people & flooded 2,276 houses.

Cyclone Freddy in Madagascar

Cyclone Freddy, an intense tropical weather system battered Madagascar's east coast with heavy rain and powerful winds tearing roofs off houses and triggering a storm surge. According to reports at least one person has been killed in the cyclone.

Madagascar hit by Cyclone Freddy

In Pics | Cyclone Cheneso wrecks havoc in Madagascar, dozens killed while thousands still displaced

At least two dozen Madagascans have died and tens of thousands have been left homeless since a severe tropical storm made landfall in North-Eastern Madagascar. @mollygambhir tells you more.

Cyclone Cheneso kills dozens in Madagascar

In Madagascar, World Food Programme has established a sustainable water source. They have also set up information and communication technology in remote areas with the aim of providing essential services to the members of the community, they are hoping to do this in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way.

World Of Africa: How Climate Change is impacting Madagascar?

You must have watched the movie named Madagascar, do you remember which animal played the role of King Julian? Well, it was a ring-tailed Lemur and the concerning part about this animal is that it has been given the status of being endangered but in hindsight New Zealand's Wellington Zoo has more than doubled its population of endangered ring-tailed Lemurs.

WION Climate Tracker: Birth of four sets of ring-tailed Lemurs

After police in Madagascar opened fire on a lynch mob enraged by the abduction of an albino child, killing 19 people and many were injured critically.

According to a senior doctor, Tango Oscar described the injuries in gruesome detail, stating that nine of the 34 injured are critical and struggling to survive. The medics are awaiting an official chopper to transport them to the capital.

A police officer engaged in the shooting claimed that 500 protesters tried to force their way into the station while equipped with machetes and swords. He then claimed that police attempted to disperse the throng by firing tear gas first, followed by shots in the air. The police in the capital confirmed the toll as 11 dead and 18 injured.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-cyclone-batsirai-wreaks-havoc-in-madagascar-six-people-killed-thousands-displaced-451086">Also read |&nbsp;In Pics | Cyclone Batsirai wreaks havoc in Madagascar; Six people killed, thousands displaced</a>

A national police head during the conference said that the department tried everything to avoid confrontation including negotiating with the crowd. He continued that tear gas was used by security forces. The incident was still under investigation, as per the police who expressed their sympathies to the families of the deceased.

In Madagascar, revenge attacks are common. It is a sizable island nation in the Indian Ocean and is one of the world’s most improvised nations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/madagascar-fm-calls-indo-pacific-a-legitimate-vision-bats-for-peaceful-military-ties-with-india-474163">Also read |&nbsp;Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India</a>

Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, primarily in Africa, are affected by albinism, a hereditary condition brought on by a deficiency in melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their colour.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania are listed as the nations with the highest prevalence of these attacks.

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>(With inputs from agencies)</o:p>

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

After police in Madagascar opened fire on a lynch mob enraged by the abduction of an albino child, killing 19 people and many were injured critically. According to a senior doctor, Tango Oscar described the injuries in gruesome detail, stating that nine of the 34 injured are critical and struggling to survive.

After police in Madagascar opened fire on a lynch mob enraged by the abduction of an albino child, killing 19 people and many were injured critically. According to a senior doctor, Tango Oscar described the injuries in gruesome detail, stating that nine of the 34 injured are critical and struggling to survive. The medics are awaiting an official chopper to transport them to the capital. A police officer engaged in the shooting claimed that 500 protesters tried to force their way into the station while equipped with machetes and swords. He then claimed that police attempted to disperse the throng by firing tear gas first, followed by shots in the air. The police in the capital confirmed the toll as 11 dead and 18 injured. Also read | In Pics | Cyclone Batsirai wreaks havoc in Madagascar; Six people killed, thousands displaced A national police head during the conference said that the department tried everything to avoid confrontation including negotiating with the crowd. He continued that tear gas was used by security forces. The incident was still under investigation, as per the police who expressed their sympathies to the families of the deceased. In Madagascar, revenge attacks are common. It is a sizable island nation in the Indian Ocean and is one of the world’s most improvised nations. Also read | Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, primarily in Africa, are affected by albinism, a hereditary condition brought on by a deficiency in melanin, the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their colour. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania are listed as the nations with the highest prevalence of these attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Madagascar police confirm killing 19 people of mob enraged by the abduction of an albino child

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister&nbsp;Richard Randriamandrato&nbsp;has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, foreign minister Randriamandrato explained "We have to look forward and have a common willingness for common destiny…We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, the piracy, transnational organised crime, illegal fishing as well."

This is the first foreign ministerial visit from Madagascar to India in years. In 2018, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind visited the country during which two bilateral agreements in the field of defence cooperation and amendatory air services agreement were signed.

On close military ties, the foreign minister pointed out that "we will very soon think of establishing a memorandum of understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar."

Close maritime cooperation has been an integral part of the ongoing engagement between the two countries. Indian Navy ships—INS Jalashwa and INS Shardul—visited the country last year.

A two-member delegation from the Indian naval forces visited the country in 2019 for a special commando training of the Malagasy armed forces and marine commandos.

WION: What is your key focus for the Delhi visit?

Richard Randriamandrato: This is my first visit to India, and I am undertaking this mission because of the situation in east Europe. The war in Ukraine is a global concern and Madagascar and India abstained from voting resolutions against pros and cons to solve this conflict at the United Nations. This is one point that we need to exchange notes with my colleague, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India. Then there are global issues like climate change and the follow up of COP 26, as well as terrorism and, of course, the Indo-Pacific region. As you know, Madagascar is part of western side of Indian Ocean, so we came here responding to the invitation of Indian government and we are very honoured by that.

&nbsp;

WION: How do you characterise the India-Madagascar relationship?

Richard Randriamandrato: It is an excellent relationship. For a long time, we have had established diplomatic relations since 1960, in fact, we are celebrating the anniversary this year. So, this is an excellent cooperation in various sectors. We are very happy with that.

&nbsp;

WION: How has been cooperation amid Covid?

Richard Randriamandrato: Well, I can mention cooperation in agriculture where India continues to provide technical cooperation in detecting fertile soil where we can plant, grow rice and have better yield. We also have military cooperation.

Unfortunately, in the current context, we are a little bit criticized for why we have military cooperation with many countries like India, for example, and yet we need to continue to address the issue of national and regional defence. These are areas, especially in maritime sector, we will very soon think of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar.

The main port is on the east coast of the Island which means we are much close to India than to Europe or the Americas. These are areas we want to develop with India.

&nbsp;

WION: You mentioned military cooperation, if you can talk about how it is going in future?

Richard Randriamandrato: The Indian Navy ships —INS Jalashwa, Shardul and Kesri—were received in Madagascar during the Covid crisis in 2020 and 2021, and I recall there were navy training with the Indian Navy mobile training team, as well as transportation of materials for disaster victims. Also, donations which were provided during that time. Then there are also exchanges of experiences and visits within the framework of multilateral military events organised by India. Then also higher-level visits, there were in March 2021 in New Delhi, a meeting of Madagascar minister of national defence who came here to participate in the Indian Ocean Conference.

Then in November 2021, the chief of military also came to India. As you see, there are many opportunities for India and Madagascar to strengthen military cooperation without any biases on how we use military cooperation, be it for the Indian defence or for Madagascar. We don't have enemies in Madagascar, fortunately so it's just very friendly cooperation. It's for peaceful consideration.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your view of the Indo-Pacific vision?

Richard Randriamandrato: I think it’s a very legitimate vision, Madagascar is situated geographically on the western side of the Indian Ocean. India is in between the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. It goes without saying that we have to look forward and have a common willingness for a common destiny, so to speak.

We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, piracy, transnational organized crime, and illegal fishing as well. The Indian Ocean and Pacific are strategic oceans for any superpower, and everyone would like to have their part sharing the responsibility to address this global issue. We see the ambition to have a common understanding of how we address this issue globally within these geographic areas. There are many countries that are concerned with these issues, and we need to enhance dialogue that we go in the same direction in the near future,

&nbsp;

WION: Do you see some practical cooperation? like Colombo security conclave. You helped India become a member of the Indian Ocean Commission, the Djibouti Code of Conduct.

Richard Randriamandrato: As rightly said, India will be an observer of the Indian Ocean Commission as Madagascar is the chair of the commission for this year. And, we are going to make sure India will play a major role to ensure that. India is a superpower, economic and military in this region. So I think, that like this Raisina Dialogue 2022, India can send messages to neighbouring countries, to say, for example, in Sri Lanka that we need to continue avoiding any tension because that will create frustration for countries but these are difficult issues. It has economic consequences as well as social and political unrest so we shall be very prudent in finding the right balance so that Sri Lanka first of all and all neighbouring countries are in peaceful comfort.

&nbsp;

WION: You're the chair of the Indian Ocean Commission, is anything being planned?

Richard Randriamandrato: In a year, there will be the summit and I am going to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India to come and attend that summit in Madagascar. That will be a symbolic, important sign of the quality of the relationship between Madagascar and India and also in this context of the Indo-Pacific vision.

&nbsp;

WION: So, can we see more high-level engagements?

Richard Randriamandrato: He is going to come very soon. President Andry Rajoelina is invited to come in June, and it’s an honour for my country, honour to visit India and strengthen the cooperation and relation with India.

&nbsp;

WION: Climate change is another big worry for the region. How is your country trying to fight this scourge?

Richard Randriamandrato: First of all, our population has natural resilience, but unfortunately these days we encounter many disasters from four cyclones, even now in April there was another cyclone. It is unusual, and we have to, maybe, correct the way we prepare the population for such a natural disaster. You cannot stop cyclones. No technological solution to avoid. By the way, sometimes cyclone also brings rains, which we need for growing rice in Madagascar.

Fortunately, we have fewer rains due to climate change but with this cyclone, we correct the flow of water in the river. We have better irrigation but at the same time, we have to mitigate the bad impact of the cyclone, as it destroys houses, trees, roads. So, we are now making sure populations at lower levels are much more prepared. We will develop a policy to have a buffer stock of rice during the rainy season, which is from December to April, so that we don't have shortages of crops. We are well prepared but never protected from such a natural disaster.

&nbsp;

WION: What is your government's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict?

Richard Randriamandrato: We are far from that war, from such a conflict. It is a competition for domination in this part of eastern Europe. Russia, who for 20 or years even before that, had always said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union there must be consideration of their strategic defence. Of course, later on, many pro-Soviet countries joined the EU and NATO.

We know the story of what is happening, US and Russia have nuclear capabilities competing to be more influential in Ukraine. Ukraine wishes to join European Union and maybe also the NATO, so that brings a lot of confusion in having a diplomatic dialogue in a peaceful manner. Unfortunately, the UN seems to have no teeth to establish such a peaceful environment, but I personally believe sooner or later we will listen to those who have not chosen for having a biased vision.

India, Madagascar and 58 countries abstained from such a radical position. I spoke to Indian minister Jaishankar that we need to have a neutral position and include South Africa and other countries who favour peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Europe. But unfortunately, I hear so much negative feedback for the time being. The tension is rising, and we continue to exchange notes and continue to have a good spirit, it is a very complicated geostrategic situation in Europe. But we are very far from that, and we don't want to get involved in any pros or cons position. We are taking a position according to our culture, our history. That is why we are much aligned with India and South Africa in that conflict.

&nbsp;

WION: Lot of worries regarding China. India and China's ties have not been good since last year due to what happened at LAC, and there are worries over the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, especially with illegal fishing. What is your take on that?

Richard Randriamandrato: Nelson Mandela once said your enemy is not our enemy. Let me borrow that. We may have issues with China on illegal fishing and other issues as well, but we are not an enemy&nbsp;of China, and we have no enemy in Madagascar. We cooperate with everybody who would like to support us in developing our island. So, I hope the border issue will be solved between India and China. But as far as Madagascar is concerned, we have no problem with China, for the time being, we continue to cooperate and solve problems diplomatically.

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean.

The visiting Madagascar Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato has called the “Indo-Pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in the southwestern Indian Ocean. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, foreign minister Randriamandrato explained "We have to look forward and have a common willingness for common destiny…We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, the piracy, transnational organised crime, illegal fishing as well." This is the first foreign ministerial visit from Madagascar to India in years. In 2018, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind visited the country during which two bilateral agreements in the field of defence cooperation and amendatory air services agreement were signed. On close military ties, the foreign minister pointed out that "we will very soon think of establishing a memorandum of understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar." Close maritime cooperation has been an integral part of the ongoing engagement between the two countries. Indian Navy ships—INS Jalashwa and INS Shardul—visited the country last year. A two-member delegation from the Indian naval forces visited the country in 2019 for a special commando training of the Malagasy armed forces and marine commandos. WION: What is your key focus for the Delhi visit? Richard Randriamandrato: This is my first visit to India, and I am undertaking this mission because of the situation in east Europe. The war in Ukraine is a global concern and Madagascar and India abstained from voting resolutions against pros and cons to solve this conflict at the United Nations. This is one point that we need to exchange notes with my colleague, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India. Then there are global issues like climate change and the follow up of COP 26, as well as terrorism and, of course, the Indo-Pacific region. As you know, Madagascar is part of western side of Indian Ocean, so we came here responding to the invitation of Indian government and we are very honoured by that. WION: How do you characterise the India-Madagascar relationship? Richard Randriamandrato: It is an excellent relationship. For a long time, we have had established diplomatic relations since 1960, in fact, we are celebrating the anniversary this year. So, this is an excellent cooperation in various sectors. We are very happy with that. WION: How has been cooperation amid Covid? Richard Randriamandrato: Well, I can mention cooperation in agriculture where India continues to provide technical cooperation in detecting fertile soil where we can plant, grow rice and have better yield. We also have military cooperation. Unfortunately, in the current context, we are a little bit criticized for why we have military cooperation with many countries like India, for example, and yet we need to continue to address the issue of national and regional defence. These are areas, especially in maritime sector, we will very soon think of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding where we can also develop technical cooperation for maritime port in Madagascar. The main port is on the east coast of the Island which means we are much close to India than to Europe or the Americas. These are areas we want to develop with India. WION: You mentioned military cooperation, if you can talk about how it is going in future? Richard Randriamandrato: The Indian Navy ships —INS Jalashwa, Shardul and Kesri—were received in Madagascar during the Covid crisis in 2020 and 2021, and I recall there were navy training with the Indian Navy mobile training team, as well as transportation of materials for disaster victims. Also, donations which were provided during that time. Then there are also exchanges of experiences and visits within the framework of multilateral military events organised by India. Then also higher-level visits, there were in March 2021 in New Delhi, a meeting of Madagascar minister of national defence who came here to participate in the Indian Ocean Conference. Then in November 2021, the chief of military also came to India. As you see, there are many opportunities for India and Madagascar to strengthen military cooperation without any biases on how we use military cooperation, be it for the Indian defence or for Madagascar. We don't have enemies in Madagascar, fortunately so it's just very friendly cooperation. It's for peaceful consideration. WION: What is your view of the Indo-Pacific vision? Richard Randriamandrato: I think it’s a very legitimate vision, Madagascar is situated geographically on the western side of the Indian Ocean. India is in between the Pacific and the Indian Ocean. It goes without saying that we have to look forward and have a common willingness for a common destiny, so to speak. We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, piracy, transnational organized crime, and illegal fishing as well. The Indian Ocean and Pacific are strategic oceans for any superpower, and everyone would like to have their part sharing the responsibility to address this global issue. We see the ambition to have a common understanding of how we address this issue globally within these geographic areas. There are many countries that are concerned with these issues, and we need to enhance dialogue that we go in the same direction in the near future, WION: Do you see some practical cooperation? like Colombo security conclave. You helped India become a member of the Indian Ocean Commission, the Djibouti Code of Conduct. Richard Randriamandrato: As rightly said, India will be an observer of the Indian Ocean Commission as Madagascar is the chair of the commission for this year. And, we are going to make sure India will play a major role to ensure that. India is a superpower, economic and military in this region. So I think, that like this Raisina Dialogue 2022, India can send messages to neighbouring countries, to say, for example, in Sri Lanka that we need to continue avoiding any tension because that will create frustration for countries but these are difficult issues. It has economic consequences as well as social and political unrest so we shall be very prudent in finding the right balance so that Sri Lanka first of all and all neighbouring countries are in peaceful comfort. WION: You're the chair of the Indian Ocean Commission, is anything being planned? Richard Randriamandrato: In a year, there will be the summit and I am going to invite the Minister of Foreign Affairs of India to come and attend that summit in Madagascar. That will be a symbolic, important sign of the quality of the relationship between Madagascar and India and also in this context of the Indo-Pacific vision. WION: So, can we see more high-level engagements? Richard Randriamandrato: He is going to come very soon. President Andry Rajoelina is invited to come in June, and it’s an honour for my country, honour to visit India and strengthen the cooperation and relation with India. WION: Climate change is another big worry for the region. How is your country trying to fight this scourge? Richard Randriamandrato: First of all, our population has natural resilience, but unfortunately these days we encounter many disasters from four cyclones, even now in April there was another cyclone. It is unusual, and we have to, maybe, correct the way we prepare the population for such a natural disaster. You cannot stop cyclones. No technological solution to avoid. By the way, sometimes cyclone also brings rains, which we need for growing rice in Madagascar. Fortunately, we have fewer rains due to climate change but with this cyclone, we correct the flow of water in the river. We have better irrigation but at the same time, we have to mitigate the bad impact of the cyclone, as it destroys houses, trees, roads. So, we are now making sure populations at lower levels are much more prepared. We will develop a policy to have a buffer stock of rice during the rainy season, which is from December to April, so that we don't have shortages of crops. We are well prepared but never protected from such a natural disaster. WION: What is your government's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Richard Randriamandrato: We are far from that war, from such a conflict. It is a competition for domination in this part of eastern Europe. Russia, who for 20 or years even before that, had always said that after the collapse of the Soviet Union there must be consideration of their strategic defence. Of course, later on, many pro-Soviet countries joined the EU and NATO. We know the story of what is happening, US and Russia have nuclear capabilities competing to be more influential in Ukraine. Ukraine wishes to join European Union and maybe also the NATO, so that brings a lot of confusion in having a diplomatic dialogue in a peaceful manner. Unfortunately, the UN seems to have no teeth to establish such a peaceful environment, but I personally believe sooner or later we will listen to those who have not chosen for having a biased vision. India, Madagascar and 58 countries abstained from such a radical position. I spoke to Indian minister Jaishankar that we need to have a neutral position and include South Africa and other countries who favour peaceful resolution of the conflict in eastern Europe. But unfortunately, I hear so much negative feedback for the time being. The tension is rising, and we continue to exchange notes and continue to have a good spirit, it is a very complicated geostrategic situation in Europe. But we are very far from that, and we don't want to get involved in any pros or cons position. We are taking a position according to our culture, our history. That is why we are much aligned with India and South Africa in that conflict. WION: Lot of worries regarding China. India and China's ties have not been good since last year due to what happened at LAC, and there are worries over the Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, especially with illegal fishing. What is your take on that? Richard Randriamandrato: Nelson Mandela once said your enemy is not our enemy. Let me borrow that. We may have issues with China on illegal fishing and other issues as well, but we are not an enemy of China, and we have no enemy in Madagascar. We cooperate with everybody who would like to support us in developing our island. So, I hope the border issue will be solved between India and China. But as far as Madagascar is concerned, we have no problem with China, for the time being, we continue to cooperate and solve problems diplomatically.

Madagascar FM calls Indo-Pacific a ‘legitimate vision’; bats for peaceful military ties with India

The visiting Madagascar Foreign minister Richard Randriamandrato has called "Indo pacific vision a legitimate vision", an important remark given the country's key location in south western Indian ocean. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the foreign minister Randriamandrato explained "we have to look forward and have a common willingness for common destiny..." explaining "We have to strengthen dialogues to make sure that we address the issue of terrorism, the piracy, trans national organized crime, illegal fishing as well."

Madagascar FM calls Indo Pacific legitimate vision; bats for peaceful military cooperation with India

Madagascar FM Richard Randriamandrato spoke to WION on Climate Change. Watch this report to know more.

Madagascar FM Richard Randriamandrato speaks to WION on Climate Change

Four consecutive years of drought have turned parts of southern Madagascar into a dust bowl. The once fertile region now has red sand blowing around. WION tells you more.

4 years of drought turn Southern Madagascar into a dust bowl

Madagascar authorities said Wednesday that the death toll from Tropical Cyclone Batsirai rose to 92. The cyclone had hit the country on Saturday night on the sparsely populated and agricultural eastern coastal area.

Madagascar struggles as death toll from Cyclone Batsirai nears 100

The full force of Cyclone Batsirai pounded Madagascar's eastern coast with torrential winds and rain on Saturday night.&nbsp;

The center of the tropical storm landed near Mananjary, on the east coast, and moved inland across the island. &nbsp;

The cyclone gained strength as blew across the Indian Ocean, with gale-force winds reaching peaks of 235 kilometers (145 miles) per hour, according to the island's meteorology department. &nbsp;

Batsirai, which means help in the Shona language, is classified as a dangerous storm and officials have warned it could inflict "significant and widespread damage, particularly flooding in the east, the southeast and the central highlands," said the department in a statement. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-winter-storm-over-150000-us-homes-witness-chilly-conditions-sans-power-450849" hreflang="en">After winter storm, over 150,000 US homes witness chilly conditions sans power</a>

As a precaution, 22,000 people have already been evacuated to gymnasiums, schools or churches, especially around Mananjary, on the east coast. &nbsp;

"The wind is getting stronger and there is a lot of rain. The sea is very rough. There are big waves that come down with a lot of force," Capt&nbsp;Ravahalahy Heninjoa, commander of Mananjary's gendarmerie, said on Saturday. &nbsp;

The winds have toppled many trees, and electricity has been cut since Friday night, he said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-icebreaker-begins-expedition-to-search-ernest-shackletons-wrecked-ship-endurance-off-antarctica-450827" hreflang="en">South African icebreaker begins expedition to search Ernest Shackleton’s wrecked ship Endurance off Antarctica</a>

Further inland, Antananarivo, the capital, experienced rains ahead of the cyclone and residents put sandbags on their roofs to protect against the winds. &nbsp;

Anticipating widespread destruction, most land and sea transport has been suspended on Madagascar, the world's fourth-largest island. &nbsp;

"Almost all regions of the island are at risk," the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management said, warning that the cyclone threatens nearly 600,000 of the island's 28 million people.

The full force of Cyclone Batsirai pounded Madagascar's eastern coast with torrential winds and rain on Saturday night. The center of the tropical storm landed near Mananjary, on the east coast, and moved inland across the island.

The full force of Cyclone Batsirai pounded Madagascar's eastern coast with torrential winds and rain on Saturday night. The center of the tropical storm landed near Mananjary, on the east coast, and moved inland across the island. The cyclone gained strength as blew across the Indian Ocean, with gale-force winds reaching peaks of 235 kilometers (145 miles) per hour, according to the island's meteorology department. Batsirai, which means help in the Shona language, is classified as a dangerous storm and officials have warned it could inflict "significant and widespread damage, particularly flooding in the east, the southeast and the central highlands," said the department in a statement. Also Read: After winter storm, over 150,000 US homes witness chilly conditions sans power As a precaution, 22,000 people have already been evacuated to gymnasiums, schools or churches, especially around Mananjary, on the east coast. "The wind is getting stronger and there is a lot of rain. The sea is very rough. There are big waves that come down with a lot of force," Capt Ravahalahy Heninjoa, commander of Mananjary's gendarmerie, said on Saturday. The winds have toppled many trees, and electricity has been cut since Friday night, he said. Also Read: South African icebreaker begins expedition to search Ernest Shackleton’s wrecked ship Endurance off Antarctica Further inland, Antananarivo, the capital, experienced rains ahead of the cyclone and residents put sandbags on their roofs to protect against the winds. Anticipating widespread destruction, most land and sea transport has been suspended on Madagascar, the world's fourth-largest island. "Almost all regions of the island are at risk," the National Office for Risk and Disaster Management said, warning that the cyclone threatens nearly 600,000 of the island's 28 million people.

Cyclone Batsirai's high winds and rain pound Madagascar

A tropical storm Ana which made landfall on Monday has wreaked havoc in three African countries, it has killed at least 34 people in Madagascar, three people in Mozambique and has killed one person in Malawi. The tropical storm has also knocked out power in the South East African nation.

Tropical storm Ana batters Madagascar, Mozambique and Malawi, kills 38 people

Flash floods triggered by torrential rains have battered Madagascar's capital resulting in deaths of at least about 10 people and rendering almost about 12000 people homeless.

Flash floods leave 10 dead, 12000 homeless in Madagascar

Flash floods triggered by torrential rains have battered Madagascar's capital resulting in deaths of at least about 10 people and rendering almost about 500 people homeless.

10 casualties with over 500 people displaced due to flash floods in Madagascar

A government minister in Madagascar has said he swam for 12 hours to safety after his helicopter crashed at sea during a rescue mission. Two other security officials travelling with him in the helicopter also survived the crash.

Police Minister swims for 12 hours after his chopper crashes at sea

A Minister in Madagascar has miraculously survived a helicopter crash. Serge Gelle turned his helicopter seat as a flotation device and swam for 12 hours to shore. Palki Sharma brings you his story.

Gravitas: "Swam for 12 hours" : How This Minister survived a chopper crash

A Madagascar minister was one of two survivors of a helicopter crash off Madagascar's northeastern coast Tuesday who then swam for almost 12 hours to shore, authorities said.

Police and port authorities said they were still searching for two other passengers after the crash Monday. The cause of the crash wasn't immediately known.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coronavirus-findings-omicron-no-less-severe-than-delta-covid-impacts-sperm-count-438905" hreflang="en">Coronavirus findings: Omicron no less severe than Delta, Covid impacts sperm count</a>

Apparently, after ejecting themselves from the aircraft, both Serge Gelle, the country's state secretary for police, and a fellow policeman&nbsp;reached land in the seaside town of Mahambo separately on Tuesday morning, port authority chief Jean-Edmond Randrianantenaina said.

In a video post on social media, the 57-year-old Gelle can be seen&nbsp;still wearing his camouflage uniform, lying exhausted on a deck chair.

"My time to die hasn't come yet," says the general, adding he is cold but not injured.

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♦️Le GDI Serge GELLE, un des passagers de l'hélicoptère accidenté hier a été retrouvé sain et sauf ce matin du côté de Mahambo. 
☑️ Les sapeurs sauveteurs de la #4°UPC ont également retrouvé le carcasse de l'hélicoptère au fond de la mer. <a href="https://t.co/sP2abwTMwB">pic.twitter.com/sP2abwTMwB</a>
— Ministère de la Défense Nationale Madagascar (@MDN_Madagascar) <a href="https://twitter.com/MDN_Madagascar/status/1473178643224530946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He and the others were flying in a helicopter to inspect a shipwreck off the northeastern coast on Monday morning.&nbsp;

Adding 18 more bodies to the previous toll, police chief Zafisambatra Ravoavy announced Tuesday that 39 people died in the disaster.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/17-dead-68-missing-after-cargo-ship-sinks-off-madagascars-northeastern-coast-438641">17 dead, 68 missing after cargo ship sinks off Madagascar’s northeastern coast</a>

In an earlier statement, Ravoavy told news agency AFP that Gelle had used a seat of the helicopter as a flotation device.

"He has always had great stamina in sport, and he's kept up this rhythm as minister, just like a thirty-year-old," he said.

"He has nerves of steel."

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: "Swam for 12 hours" : How This Minister survived a chopper crash

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-swam-for-12-hours-how-this-minister-survived-a-chopper-crash-439132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After serving in the police for more than 30 years, Gella became a minister as a result of a cabinet reshuffle in August.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Madagascar minister was one of two survivors of a helicopter crash off Madagascar's northeastern coast Tuesday who then swam for almost 12 hours to shore, authorities said.

A Madagascar minister was one of two survivors of a helicopter crash off Madagascar's northeastern coast Tuesday who then swam for almost 12 hours to shore, authorities said. Police and port authorities said they were still searching for two other passengers after the crash Monday. The cause of the crash wasn't immediately known. Also read | Coronavirus findings: Omicron no less severe than Delta, Covid impacts sperm count Apparently, after ejecting themselves from the aircraft, both Serge Gelle, the country's state secretary for police, and a fellow policeman reached land in the seaside town of Mahambo separately on Tuesday morning, port authority chief Jean-Edmond Randrianantenaina said. In a video post on social media, the 57-year-old Gelle can be seen still wearing his camouflage uniform, lying exhausted on a deck chair. "My time to die hasn't come yet," says the general, adding he is cold but not injured. ♦️Le GDI Serge GELLE, un des passagers de l'hélicoptère accidenté hier a été retrouvé sain et sauf ce matin du côté de Mahambo. ☑️ Les sapeurs sauveteurs de la #4°UPC ont également retrouvé le carcasse de l'hélicoptère au fond de la mer. pic.twitter.com/sP2abwTMwB — Ministère de la Défense Nationale Madagascar (@MDN_Madagascar) December 21, 2021 × He and the others were flying in a helicopter to inspect a shipwreck off the northeastern coast on Monday morning. Adding 18 more bodies to the previous toll, police chief Zafisambatra Ravoavy announced Tuesday that 39 people died in the disaster. Also read | 17 dead, 68 missing after cargo ship sinks off Madagascar’s northeastern coast In an earlier statement, Ravoavy told news agency AFP that Gelle had used a seat of the helicopter as a flotation device. "He has always had great stamina in sport, and he's kept up this rhythm as minister, just like a thirty-year-old," he said. "He has nerves of steel." Watch | Gravitas: "Swam for 12 hours" : How This Minister survived a chopper crash After serving in the police for more than 30 years, Gella became a minister as a result of a cabinet reshuffle in August. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazing feat! Madagascar Minister swims for 12 hours to reach shore after helicopter crash

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