AGP Executive Report

Mining Governance: Mozambique President Daniel Chapo signed a law requiring the state, via ENM, to hold a minimum 15% free-carried, non-dilutable stake in all mining ventures and to push local mineral processing—part of a wider African trend to capture more value from battery-critical resources. Madagascar-Russia Ties: Madagascar’s chargé d’affaires ad interim says Russia remains a “reliable” partner, citing cooperation beyond security into healthcare and media, after Madagascar’s communications minister signaled openness to Russian media collaboration. Diplomacy & Trade: Indonesia and Madagascar agreed to deepen ties through a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) and mutual visa exemptions for diplomatic and service passport holders, with minerals and energy flagged as priority areas. Regional Fisheries Oversight: SADC renewed the board of the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre (MCSCC) in Maputo, keeping Stanley Ndara as chair and emphasizing a regional register of fishing vessels to curb illegal fishing. Public Safety & Health: A regional forum in Nairobi brought together nuclear regulators from nine African countries to strengthen safety for nuclear and radiation use in healthcare, supported by the IAEA. Local Disaster: In eastern Madagascar, 11 artisanal gold miners died in a landslide at a Vatomandry site; authorities ordered the site closed to prevent further incidents.

Diplomacy & Regional Ties: Indonesia’s foreign minister said Jakarta and Türkiye will refocus international attention on the Palestinian cause, after Middle East strikes diverted attention from Gaza. Foreign Policy & Madagascar Links: In Jakarta, Indonesia’s Alice N’Diaye meeting also produced a plan to deepen ties via a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) and new visa exemptions for diplomatic and service passport holders, with Indonesia pitching Madagascar as a gateway to Africa’s minerals. Maritime Security: France detained the master of the “shadow fleet” tanker Tagor in the Atlantic, accusing false-flagging and sanctions evasion; Russia called it illegal and “international piracy,” as enforcement pressure on Iranian and Russian-linked shipping intensifies. World Cup Politics & Mobility: Morocco’s World Cup preparations continued with a 4-0 friendly win over Madagascar, while defender Zakaria El Ouahdi reportedly missed travel due to a US visa issue. Domestic Safety & Governance: Madagascar authorities say 11 artisanal gold miners died in a Vatomandry landslide; the mayor ordered the site closed to prevent further mining. Regional Fisheries Governance: SADC renewed the board of the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre, keeping Madagascar’s Rijasoa Fanazava on the board.

Diplomacy & Trade: Indonesia and Madagascar moved to deepen ties in Jakarta, signing a deal to set up a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) and agreeing visa exemptions for diplomatic and service passport holders, with both sides pointing to mining, energy, finance and the creative economy as near-term priorities. Regional Security & Food Costs: S&P warned that the Iran war is straining Africa’s energy and food systems, with fuel and fertilizer disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz expected to hit import-dependent economies like Madagascar hardest within 6–18 months. Mining Safety: Eleven artisanal gold miners died in a Vatomandry landslide; the mayor ordered the site closed as authorities investigate. Sports Diplomacy: Morocco thrashed Madagascar 4-0 in a World Cup warm-up in Rabat, with Ismael Saibari scoring twice and Soufiane Rahimi adding a penalty. Russia Ties: Madagascar’s Russian envoy said Russia remains a “reliable” partner, including in healthcare and media cooperation. Regional Fisheries Governance: SADC reappointed Stanley Ndara to chair the MCSCC board, with Madagascar’s Rijasoa Fanazava among members as the region pushes tougher illegal fishing controls.

Climate & Courts: A landmark case is being heard by the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights on states’ duties to protect people from the climate crisis and shift away from environmentally harmful economies. Regional Fisheries Governance: SADC has reappointed Stanley Ndara to chair the Regional Fisheries Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre board, keeping Madagascar’s Rijasoa Fanazava on the board and prioritizing the Regional Register of Fishing Vessels and reduced donor reliance. Madagascar in International Spotlight (Sports): Morocco hosted Madagascar in a World Cup warm-up in Rabat, leading 2-0 at halftime and winning 4-0 overall, with Ismael Saibari scoring twice. Aviation Connectivity: Ethiopian Airlines will start thrice-weekly direct flights Addis Ababa–Port Louis from July 12, replacing prior codeshare routing via hubs including Antananarivo. Maritime Law & Sanctions: France seized the Russia-linked tanker Tagor in the Atlantic; reports say it was registered under Madagascar’s flag before alleged false-flag changes, drawing Kremlin accusations of “international piracy.” World Cup Build-Up: More friendlies are scheduled ahead of the 2026 tournament, with Morocco–Madagascar among the key African fixtures.

Maritime Security & Sanctions: France seized the sanctioned Russian-linked tanker Tagor in the Atlantic, ordering it toward mainland France; Macron posted video of commandos boarding, while Russia’s Kremlin called it illegal and “international piracy,” and reporting says the vessel was registered under Madagascar’s flag and suspected of false-flag switching. Regional Integration: Justice ministers and attorneys general from SADC met in Victoria Falls, with the proposed SADC Tourism UNIVISA agreement on the agenda to enable a unified visa for tourism and transit across member states. Southern Africa Fisheries: SADC reappointed fisheries observer agency chief Stanley Ndara to chair the regional fisheries monitoring control and surveillance centre, based in Maputo, as ministers also pushed for stronger participation and payment of outstanding contributions. Madagascar-Linked Diplomacy: Madagascar’s president and defence officials signaled military cooperation priorities with Russia, while a separate report says Madagascar authorities and St Petersburg agreed an industrial cooperation deal. Sports (Madagascar in Focus): Morocco take on Madagascar in a World Cup warm-up friendly, with match previews circulating ahead of the tournament.

Maritime Security & Sanctions: France seized the sanctioned Russian-linked tanker Tagor in the Atlantic, ordering it toward the French mainland; Macron said the operation was done with UK support and in line with the law of the sea, while the Kremlin called it illegal and “borderline piracy,” as the ship was reportedly registered under Madagascar’s flag and suspected of false-flag behavior. Critical Minerals & Diplomacy: Evion Group named former Australian US ambassador Arthur Sinodinos as strategic advisor to accelerate its US critical minerals push, following its Nevada fluorspar acquisition. Regional Fisheries Governance: SADC reappointed fisheries observer agency chief Stanley Ndara as chair of the regional monitoring, control and surveillance centre in Maputo, urging member states to strengthen anti-IUU enforcement and pay outstanding contributions. Madagascar–Russia Economic Links: Madagascar’s Industry ministry signed a bilateral cooperation agreement with the St. Petersburg Special Economic Zone management during PM Mamitiana Rajaonarison’s visit, alongside broader partnership talks involving Sberbank. Media & Training: Communications minister Gascar Fenosoa said Madagascar is open to cooperation with Russian media and backed an African Initiative plan for a Malagasy journalism school with online training.

Maritime Sanctions Clash: France intercepted the sanctioned Russian-linked tanker Tagor in the Atlantic and ordered it to head to France, with Macron posting commando footage and saying the ship was registered under Madagascar’s flag before suspected false-flag moves; Russia’s Kremlin called the action “international piracy,” while France says the boarding confirmed irregularities and that the crackdown targets Moscow’s sanctions-evasion “shadow fleet.” Defense & Russia Ties: Madagascar’s president said the military sphere is a priority for cooperation with Russia, citing training and equipment deliveries, as France’s interdictions keep putting Madagascar-flagged shipping in the spotlight. Regional Legal Integration: SADC justice ministers meeting in Victoria Falls put the proposed SADC Tourism UNIVISA on the agenda, aiming for a unified visa for tourism and transit across member states. SADC Fisheries Oversight: Stanley Ndara was reappointed to lead the SADC regional fisheries monitoring control and surveillance centre, with ministers urging stronger participation and payment of outstanding contributions. Media Cooperation: Madagascar’s communications minister said the country is open to cooperation with Russian media, stressing press freedom and independence, and backing an online journalism school plan.

Constitutional Showdown: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court has rejected opposition MP Antoine Rajerison’s bid to remove military ruler Col. Michael Randrianirina, saying the case was inadmissible because it didn’t meet constitutional requirements for ousting a head of state. Political Transition Watch: Randrianirina took power after Andry Rajoelina fled following youth-led protests over water and energy, and the court ruling lands as the roadmap promises a new constitution and a presidential election by end-2027 amid reports of arrests and scattered protests. Foreign Partnerships: In Moscow, Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison met Sberbank leadership and flagged cooperation in healthcare, education, tourism and AI, including 230 containers of rural medical equipment and training support. Regional Governance & Courts: The week also saw broader legal and governance attention as Madagascar’s top court again set limits on political challenges to the current leadership. Sports & National Teams: Madagascar basketball named Mickael Pivaud as men’s national coach ahead of Senegal qualifiers, while Madagascar’s political calendar continues to intersect with preparations for major regional and international events.

Constitutional Crisis in Antananarivo: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court has rejected an opposition MP’s bid to remove military ruler Colonel Michael Randrianirina, saying the challenge was inadmissible because it failed to meet constitutional requirements for removing a head of state; the ruling comes as young people press for faster reforms and rights groups allege arrests and heavy-handed policing, with a transition roadmap still promising a new constitution and a presidential election by end-2027. Moscow Deal for Development: Transitional Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison met Sberbank leadership in Moscow and flagged cooperation in healthcare, education, tourism and AI, including 230 containers of medical equipment for rural areas and training support aimed at jobs for young people. Regional Politics Meets Sports: Madagascar’s basketball federation named French coach Mickael Pivaud as men’s national team head coach ahead of Senegal qualifiers, while the country also sent an early karate delegation to Nairobi for the UFAK Region East championships, signaling continued state-linked investment in international sport. Humanitarian/Health Cooperation: UNFPA signed an MoU with the AfDB to put maternal health and demographic resilience at the center of Africa’s economic transformation, a theme that intersects with Madagascar’s own health priorities.

Constitutional Showdown: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court threw out opposition MP Antoine Rajerison’s bid to remove military ruler Col. Michael Randrianirina, saying the case was inadmissible under constitutional rules—leaving the “Refoundation of the Republic” roadmap and elections promised for 2027 on track. Prime Minister’s Foreign Ties: In Moscow, transitional Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison met Sberbank leadership and flagged cooperation in healthcare, education, tourism and AI; Sberbank is set to deliver 230 containers of rural medical equipment plus training and job-creation support. Security & Governance: Rights groups warn that protests over slow reforms have been met with arrests and heavy-handed tactics as the political transition remains fragile. Defense Cooperation: Madagascar’s armed forces minister says the country will keep expanding military cooperation with Russia, focusing on training and continued use of Russian weapons. Public Safety for Travelers: A travel-safety report highlights how quickly information, logistics and local sentiment can deteriorate during unrest—urging earlier exit planning. Sports & National Teams: Madagascar named Mickael Pivaud as men’s national basketball coach ahead of 2027 African qualifiers, while karate coverage shows the country arriving in Nairobi with medal ambitions.

Constitutional Crisis: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court has thrown out an opposition MP’s bid to remove military ruler Col. Michael Randrianirina, ruling the challenge was inadmissible because it didn’t meet the constitutional process for removing a head of state. Road to 2027: The ruling lands as Randrianirina’s “Refoundation of the Republic” roadmap keeps the country preparing for a new constitution and a presidential election by end-2027, amid rights groups’ claims of arrests and heavy-handed tactics during protests. Security & Foreign Ties: Madagascar’s defence minister says the country will keep expanding cooperation with Russia, focusing on training and continued use of Russian weapons, with Russia’s Africa Corps playing a role. Regional Sports Diplomacy: Madagascar also made headlines beyond politics—appointing Mickael Pivaud as men’s national basketball coach ahead of African qualifiers, and sending an early karate delegation to Nairobi for the UFAK Region East Championships.

Madagascar Constitutional Court: The High Constitutional Court has rejected opposition MP Antoine Rajerison’s bid to remove military ruler President Michael Randrianirina, ruling the challenge was inadmissible because it didn’t meet constitutional requirements for removing a head of state. Political Transition Watch: Randrianirina took power after Andry Rajoelina fled following youth-led protests, and the roadmap still points to a new constitution and a presidential election by end-2027 amid rights groups’ claims of crackdowns and slow reforms. Defense & Foreign Ties: Madagascar’s armed forces minister says the country will deepen cooperation with Russia on training and weapons use, citing Russian-origin equipment in the Malagasy army and new courses for servicemen. Sports—National Team: Madagascar named Mickael Pivaud as head coach of the men’s basketball team ahead of the 2027 World Cup African qualifiers in Senegal, aiming to revive hopes after a tough start. Regional Karate: Madagascar issued an early warning to hosts Kenya at the UFAK Region East Karate Championships in Nairobi, with the federation leadership promising gold across kata and kumite.

Constitutional Showdown: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court rejected an opposition MP’s bid to remove President Michael Randrianirina, saying the request was inadmissible because it didn’t meet the constitutional process for removing a head of state—amid a fragile political transition and preparations for a 2027 referendum and elections. Security & Foreign Links: Madagascar’s Armed Forces Minister said the country will deepen defence cooperation with Russia, focusing on training and continued access to Russian weapons, citing that most Malagasy army arms come from Russia. Courtroom Politics: The same ruling underscores how tightly the constitution constrains challenges to the presidency, even as youth-led protests and rights groups report arrests and heavy-handed tactics. Sports Diplomacy: Madagascar’s karate federation led an early arrival in Nairobi ahead of the UFAK Region East Karate Championships, signaling medal ambitions as regional delegations stream in. National Team Update: Mickael Pivaud was named head coach of Madagascar’s men’s basketball team, tasked with reviving World Cup qualifier hopes in Senegal. Infrastructure for Growth: A World Bank-linked upgrade to the Manambery Bridge highlights how road and bridge resilience supports Madagascar’s vanilla supply chain and tens of thousands of farmers.

High Court Ruling: Madagascar’s High Constitutional Court rejected an opposition MP’s bid to remove military ruler Colonel Michael Randrianirina, saying the challenge was inadmissible because it did not meet constitutional requirements for removing a head of state. Protests and Transition Roadmap: The decision lands as young people press for faster reforms amid scattered protests, with rights groups alleging arrests and heavy-handed tactics; a transition roadmap promises a new constitution and a presidential election by end-2027. Defense Diplomacy: Madagascar’s defense minister says the country will keep expanding cooperation with Russia, focusing on training and continued courses for using Russian weapons. Regional Sports Push: Madagascar’s karate federation says it has arrived early in Nairobi ahead of the UFAK Region East Karate Championships (May 28–31), aiming for medals across kata and kumite. Maternal Health Partnership: UNFPA and the AfDB signed an MoU to strengthen maternal health and demographic resilience across Africa, linking health outcomes to economic transformation. Vanilla and Infrastructure: A World Bank-linked upgrade to the Manambery Bridge is highlighted as key logistics for Madagascar’s vanilla economy, supporting farmers and market access.

Regional Diplomacy & Security: Madagascar’s Armed Forces Minister Maminirina Ely Razafitombo says Antananarivo will deepen defence cooperation with Russia, focusing on training and continued use of Russian weapons, after an eight-week course for 127 servicemen. Energy Security: Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison confirms an agreement with Russia’s Security Council chief Sergei Shoigu to build fuel storage facilities in Madagascar to secure supplies and blunt Gulf-linked disruptions. Humanitarian Coordination: The African Union launches a new continental humanitarian coordination platform to tighten crisis response as displacement, hunger and climate-linked disasters strain funding, with only 26.7% of needs currently met. Sports & Regional Presence: Madagascar arrives early in Nairobi as the first foreign delegation ahead of the UFAK Region East Karate Championships (May 28–31), signaling medal ambitions. Tourism & Travel Policy: The U.S. State Department lowers Madagascar’s advisory to Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution,” citing improved stability under a transitional government. Vanilla & Industry: IFF moves to create a Vanilla Innovation Centre in Madagascar, aiming to innovate at origin and protect product quality. Conservation: Fota Wildlife Park announces two critically endangered black-and-white ruffed lemur twins born April 21, with the public invited to name them.

Fuel Security Deal: Madagascar’s Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison confirmed an agreement with Russia’s Security Council chief Sergei Shoigu to build fuel storage facilities on the island, aiming to secure cheaper supplies and reduce exposure to Gulf-linked disruptions. Regional Diplomacy & Governance: A week of cabinet reshuffles abroad continues to raise questions about executive power and accountability, with Senegal dissolving the government after months of economic policy disputes. Maternal Health Partnership: UNFPA and the African Development Bank signed an MoU to strengthen maternal health and “demographic resilience,” focusing on digital training for health workers, climate-resilient health infrastructure, and better health information systems. Vanilla & Innovation: IFF is setting up a Vanilla Innovation Centre in Madagascar, adding lab analysis, extraction capabilities, and application labs to help protect quality and develop new vanilla profiles at origin. Infrastructure for Trade: The World Bank-backed upgrade of the Manambery Bridge in northeastern Madagascar highlights how road and bridge resilience supports jobs for vanilla farmers and keeps markets connected. Sports Diplomacy: Madagascar’s karate federation leaders say the country is ready to compete for gold at the East Karate Championships in Nairobi, arriving early and warning hosts Kenya not to expect an easy win.