Madagascar and Chad strengthen ties through new cooperation plans

Antananarivo and N’Djamena deepen bilateral relations with fresh economic and diplomatic initiatives.

An official visit by Madagascar’s President of the Refoundation, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, to N’Djamena has marked a turning point in the relationship between the two nations. The visit, coinciding with Chad’s 66th Independence Day celebrations on August 11, 2026, underscored the growing momentum in African solidarity and economic collaboration.

Economic and infrastructure collaboration takes center stage

The high-level engagement began with a meeting between Randrianirina and Chad’s President, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, where they explored avenues for enhanced cooperation. Discussions centered on strengthening economic ties, infrastructure development, and shared strategic interests. Randrianirina emphasized the transformative potential of intra-African partnerships, stating, “African nations must unite and support one another to drive progress across the continent.”

The visit also included a ceremonial parade at N’Djamena’s Place de la Nation, where Randrianirina, President Déby Itno, and Guinea-Bissau’s President General Horta N’Tam participated in military festivities, symbolizing the depth of their diplomatic ties.

Reigniting historical partnerships

Randrianirina acknowledged that while Madagascar and Chad have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, economic and trade exchanges have waned in recent years. However, both nations share a legacy of French colonial history, achieving independence in 1960 after adopting republican status in 1958. This common background offers a strong foundation for renewed collaboration.

In a bid to solidify these efforts, President Déby Itno is scheduled to visit Antananarivo, where further discussions on joint economic projects and infrastructure investments are expected. The goal is to revitalize bilateral ties and unlock new opportunities for mutual growth.