Strengthening the linguistic and professional skills of Bajaj (tricycle) drivers is a key priority in Mahajanga. The goal is to improve the quality of service for local users and better meet the expectations of tourists visiting the city. In this context, the second wave of training for Bajaj drivers for the 2025-2026 period was officially launched on Saturday, October 10, at the Akôry Haly House of Communication and Culture in Mangarivotra.
A total of 300 drivers, representing less than 10% of the city’s registered tricycle drivers, are participating in a three-month training program focused on language skills and professionalism. The initiative is led by the association ‘Citoyens actifs de Mahajanga’ (CAM) with funding from the Malagasy Vocational Training Fund (FMFP).
“The training program includes French and English courses, as well as training in first aid, tourism, and traffic regulations. The registration fee is 1,000 ariary,” explained the training manager. “The objective is to strengthen skills and professionalism in the performance of their duties,” she added.
This training is a continuation of efforts to improve the services provided by Bajaj drivers in Mahajanga. A first session was organized in 2023. In 2025, to mark its 50th anniversary, the Alliance Française de Mahajanga (AFM) also supported the city hall by offering free French courses to drivers to help them communicate better with clients.
Despite these initiatives, the behavior of Bajaj drivers and the quality of their services remain unsatisfactory to users. Non-compliance with traffic laws is a major concern, particularly passenger overloading, which often occurs when drivers evade law enforcement. Speeding, reckless overtaking, and sudden U-turns are also frequent, increasing accident risks and compromising road safety.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-16 06:24:22 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/mahajanga-les-conducteurs-de-bajaj-se.html