The issuance of badges, professional cards, and accreditations for tourist guides has resumed after a hiatus since 2019.
The Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, Lucie Vololoniaina Rafaralahy, announced the reactivation of this procedure in Antananarivo on Monday, which is now conditional upon a skills assessment.
The initiative aims to strengthen the professionalism of guides and improve the quality of services offered to visitors. Candidates must demonstrate their aptitude for the profession before obtaining the required documents. This measure is crucial in a sector where the skills of guides play a significant role in welcoming tourists, providing information on visited sites, and promoting Malagasy heritage.
The announcement was made during a ceremony dedicated to strengthening professional qualifications in the tourism sector. On this occasion, reference documents for training in package tour agency and ecotourism service management were presented. Diplomas were also awarded to national tour guides through the Validation of Acquired Experience (VAE) program. This mechanism allows professionals already in the field, but lacking certified diplomas, to have their practical skills officially recognized.
The professionalization of guides is a major issue for the tourism sector. Well-trained professionals contribute to better reception conditions, provide reliable information, and help visitors discover the country’s natural and cultural heritage. This initiative relies on a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts and the Ministry of Technical Education and Vocational Training, with support from the International Organization of La Francophonie.
Beyond the resumption of issuing professional documents, the approach aims to better regulate tourism professions and adapt training to current sector requirements. Recognizing skills and improving services are levers to enhance the attractiveness of Madagascar as a destination and foster economic benefits for local communities.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-28 06:09:19 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/professionnalisation-les-guides.html
