Yet another search for an operator. The State has once again launched a call for expressions of interest to select a “renowned international hotel operator for the management and operation of the Sheraton Ivato hotel.” The verbal communication regarding this initiative was approved on Thursday during the Council of Ministers.
The Ivato five-star hotel, which has been idle for over fifteen years despite investments estimated at several million dollars, represents a dormant asset that the State is seeking to monetize. Bringing it back into operation would generate tax revenue, create direct and indirect jobs in the hospitality and service sectors, and stimulate the local economy through catering, transport, and handicrafts.
The arrival of a top-tier international operator would send a positive signal for the Malagasy destination and its capacity to host business events and international summits. The development of MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) could thus increase the foreign currency generated by the tourism sector, a strategic pillar in the national goal of reaching one million visitors by 2028.
This establishment is one of the infrastructures built under the Marc Ravalomanana regime to host the African Union summit, initially scheduled for Madagascar in 2009. However, the political crisis that occurred that same year, leading Andry Rajoelina to head the transition, resulted in the cancellation of the summit in the Great Island.
While other infrastructures built for the 2009 African Union summit, such as the presidential villas in Antanetibe Antehiroka or the Ivato International Conference Center, have since found a purpose, this is not yet the case for the Ivato five-star hotel. The establishment is still looking for an operator.
At one point, the Sheraton group had considered establishing a hotel there. Massive recruitment drives were even launched for an opening planned in 2017. But the project remains stalled. The State has repeatedly relaunched the search for partners to manage the operation of this infrastructure, without success. In July 2025, a new path was mentioned by the then-President, Andry Rajoelina, regarding his project to host the sub-regional hub of the United Nations for the Indian Ocean. The Ivato Five-Star Hotel was identified to house this future strategic office of the United Nations system.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-14 11:38:39 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://2424.mg/tourisme-letat-recherche-un-exploitant-pour-lhotel-cinq-etoiles-divato/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tourisme-letat-recherche-un-exploitant-pour-lhotel-cinq-etoiles-divato
