Madagascar has evaluated its response to irregular maritime migration during an IOM simulation exercise in Mahajanga to strengthen border coordination.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with national authorities, assessed Madagascar’s response capacity to irregular maritime migration through a three-day simulation exercise (Simex) held from July 1st to July 3rd in Mahajanga. This operation aimed to test the country’s institutional and operational capabilities in managing incidents related to irregular maritime migration.
The exercise is part of the project entitled “Creating Smarter Borders, Enhancing Regular and Safe Mobility Pathways, and Improving Connectivity and Integration in Africa through Digitalization.” Implemented by the IOM in four countries, this initiative is funded by the Japanese government with 3 million US dollars. Madagascar is among the beneficiary countries, alongside Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Côte d’Ivoire. The project also contributes to the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the protocol on the free movement of persons.
As the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration, the IOM promotes the principle that safe, orderly, and regular migration benefits both migrants and host societies.
Close Coordination
The exercise mobilized thirteen national institutions to evaluate inter-institutional coordination, as well as search and rescue, maritime security, and humanitarian response capabilities.
The northwestern coastline of Madagascar, stretching over 1,950 kilometers, constitutes one of the country’s most strategic and exposed maritime borders.
Irregular migration, human trafficking, and unregulated maritime crossings represent persistent challenges for the Great Island.
An effective response to these issues requires close coordination between multiple institutions. They are called upon to intervene in contexts often marked by strong operational pressure and the availability of incomplete information. The exercise aimed to replicate these conditions.
“This exercise allowed us to evaluate, in practice, the capacity of Malagasy institutions to coordinate their actions during a maritime incident. This type of exercise was essential. It helped identify strengths and areas requiring additional support, even before a real situation tests the system. Equipment, training, and digital systems have strengthened part of the response at Madagascar’s borders. This exercise was an opportunity to see them function together,” stated Roger Charles Evina, IOM Madagascar Chief of Mission.
Vero Andrianarisoa
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-07 06:42:51 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/securite-maritime-les-autorites-luttent.html