Country Information
| Sovereign State | Yes |
| Country Codes | MG, MDG |
| Official Name | Republic of Madagascar |
| Continent | Africa |
| Capital | Antananarivo |
| Government Type | Unitary semi-presidential constitutional republic |
| Currency | Malagasy Ariary (MGA) |
| Calling Code | +261 |
| Member Of | United Nations, African Union, Southern African Development Community, Francophonie, Indian Ocean Commission |
| Population | Approximately 28 million (as of 2023) |
| Total Area | Around 587,041 square kilometers |
| Highest Point | Maromokotro (2,876 meters or 9,436 feet) |
| Lowest Point | Indian Ocean (sea level) |
| GDP Per Capita | Estimated $520 USD (as of 2023) |
| Life Expectancy | Around 67 years (as of 2023) |
| Internet TLD | .mg |
Madagascar National Anthem
Ry Tanindrazanay malala ô!
Oh, beloved land of our ancestors!
To you we give our hearts and our bodies.
Oh, beautiful Madagascar.
Our love for you will not perish.
Flags of Neighboring Countries
History of the Madagascar Flag
The flag of Madagascar was adopted on October 14, 1958, two years before the country gained independence from France in 1960. The design and colors of the flag hold deep significance and reflect Madagascar’s identity and history.
The flag consists of two horizontal bands of red and green and a white vertical band on the hoist side. The red and white colors were taken from the flag of the Merina Kingdom, which predated French colonization, symbolizing the country’s sovereignty. Red also stands for sovereignty, while white signifies purity and green represents hope and the Hova, a class of free citizens in Madagascar.
The flag’s establishment was a significant step in Madagascar’s journey towards independence, signifying a break from colonial rule and the start of a new era. The colors were carefully chosen to avoid association with political parties and to represent a united and independent Madagascar.
Throughout Madagascar’s history, the flag has been a symbol of national pride and unity. It is displayed prominently in national events, celebrations, and public buildings. The flag also symbolizes Madagascar’s rich cultural heritage, blending traditional Malagasy and colonial influences.
Madagascar’s flag is unique among African nations, as it does not utilize the traditional Pan-African colors of red, yellow, and green. This distinctiveness reflects Madagascar’s unique geographical and cultural position as an island nation off the southeast coast of Africa, with a diverse population and history.