Madagascar has taken the helm of the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG), placing the country at the heart of regional efforts to combat illicit financial flows.
This dual responsibility was formalized in Kigali, Rwanda, during the 52nd meeting of the Task Force of Senior Officials and the 26th meeting of the Council of Ministers, held from August 31 to September 4. Dr. Herinjatovo Aimé Ramiarison, Minister of Economy and Finance, has become the President of the ESAAMLG Council of Ministers, while Dr. Haja Lalao Razanamanana, Director General of the Financial Intelligence Unit (Samifin), now leads the Task Force of Senior Officials.
The ESAAMLG is a regional body tasked with promoting international standards to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Its mission includes evaluating the anti-money laundering frameworks of its member states and fostering regional cooperation.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, this mandate reflects Madagascar’s determination to actively engage in the fight against financial crimes and protect its national economy. The country has set four key priorities for its presidency, including leading the 3rd cycle of ESAAMLG evaluations with exemplary solidarity, strengthening the fight against illicit financial flows related to natural resources and environmental crime, improving statistical management systems, and enhancing risk-based supervision for virtual asset service providers.
Beyond regional coordination, this presidency carries significant national stakes. Madagascar must demonstrate effectiveness in its own domestic anti-money laundering efforts, particularly by improving inter-agency coordination and the traceability of financial flows. The Malagasy presidency will culminate in August 2027, when the country will host the next meeting of the ESAAMLG Council of Ministers.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-07 06:08:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/blanchiment-de-capitaux-madagascar.html
