In a historic visit — the first by a Malagasy head of state in Cairo since diplomatic relations were established in 1970 — Colonel Andry Rajoelina Randrianirina and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi sealed five cooperation agreements covering sectors vital to Madagascar's economy.
Five agreements across strategic sectors
The two countries signed five memorandums of understanding covering renewable energy, water desalination, agriculture, healthcare and infrastructure. These areas reflect Madagascar's most pressing needs: energy access (only one-third of the population is electrified), food security and health coverage.
On the Egyptian side, GAFI — the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones — is coordinating private sector mobilisation. Egypt positions itself as a structural investor, drawing on its experience in large-scale solar plant construction and cost-effective desalination technology.
A partnership anchored in COMESA
Both nations are members of COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa), which facilitates trade flows and cross-investment within a shared regulatory framework. The visit was also marked by a gesture of solidarity: Egypt had provided humanitarian aid to Madagascar following Cyclone Gezani.
Madagascar's president raised the prospect of opening a resident embassy in Cairo — a signal of intent to sustain the partnership long-term. A business roundtable held in Antananarivo in early August brought together Malagasy operators and GAFI representatives to identify priority projects.
Why it matters
For Madagascar, Egypt represents an alternative to traditional partners and access to cutting-edge energy and water technologies. For Egypt, the island offers a market of over 30 million people and a gateway to Southern Africa. If this bilateral economic diplomacy translates into concrete projects, it could reshape Madagascar's energy and agricultural landscape over the coming decade.
Source: L'Express Madagascar / Amwal Al Ghad / Newsmada — July–August 2026