Transforming Madagascar into a sustainable and reliable tourist destination

The Madagascar Tourism Confederation (CTM) recently organized a roundtable on the theme, « Key Strategies for Promoting Sustainable Tourism in Madagascar ». The focus was on transforming challenges into opportunities in this rapidly growing sector.

Lova Ratovomalala, Executive Director of the CTM, emphasized that the primary goal is to unite tourism professionals, defend their interests, and foster a shared vision for the development of Madagascar’s tourism industry. Representing 100 members and nearly 700 official companies, the CTM acts as the official voice of the private tourism sector, serving as a liaison with the government and international partners.

At the roundtable, the discussions centered on the concept of sustainable tourism, which Ratovomalala explained rests on three pillars : people, the environment, and the economy. To position Madagascar as a reliable and sustainable destination, the first steps involve improving essential infrastructure, including air transportation and road networks. Ensuring the safety and security of visitors also remains a significant challenge that needs to be addressed.

Beyond infrastructure, the promotion of sustainable tourism requires close cooperation between the government and the private sector. Bold policies, structural reforms, and strong collaboration among stakeholders are essential to achieving these goals. Awareness campaigns and training programs, both crucial to the sustainable development of tourism, should be prioritized. Additionally, the long-awaited adoption of a new tourism code, which the private sector has been advocating for nearly a decade, is vital to aligning with sustainability standards.

With the right commitment and resources, Madagascar has the potential to emerge as a leading destination for sustainable tourism in the region.