Several economic files are at the heart of Colonel Michaël Randrianirina’s trip to Europe, with the Volobe hydroelectric project and space cooperation among the key issues.
The trip to France and Belgium focuses on projects, investments, and financing. The Volobe hydroelectric project is a primary concern. In Paris, the Head of State is attending the International Space Summit at the Grand Palais, as Madagascar seeks to develop space technology, building on recent partnerships with Chinese firms.
The Volobe project, involving the construction of a dam on the Ivondro River in the Atsinanana region, has been stalled for nearly a decade. Negotiations between the State and the Compagnie Générale d’Hydroélectricité de Volobe (CGHV) center on the price per kilowatt-hour and the concession duration. While the company proposed 17 cents per kWh, the State aimed for 9 cents.
Developments have occurred, notably with the entry of Électricité de France (EDF) into the consortium, announced by Emmanuel Macron during his April 2025 visit. An amendment signed in July extended discussions until June 2027. In Belgium, the President is expected to discuss energy issues with European Union officials, who have expressed interest in supporting the Volobe project’s financing.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-11 06:23:46 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/diplomatie-economique-le-president-mise.html
