Since last week, the City of Flowers has seen a massive rush and record-breaking influx of visitors. The multiplication of events is boosting the local economy.
Bush taxis are struggling to meet demand. For several days, over a thousand visitors and vacationers have been arriving in or leaving Mahajanga daily. On average, about a hundred bush taxis and as many private vehicles are recorded each day at the national bus stations of Aranta, Cotisse, and Soatrans, as well as at the city entrance.
“Statistics show that 1,063 passengers arrived at the Aranta bus station on August 5, and 799 others were recorded departing the day before. For private carriers like Cotisse, the peak was recorded on August 8 with 15 vehicles carrying 240 passengers. Meanwhile, at Soatrans, 13 vehicles with 185 passengers were recorded upon arrival on August 5. This results in an average of 1,400 passengers arriving in Mahajanga every day,” explained the regional director of the Land Transport Agency (ATT) of Mahajanga.
“We are trying to satisfy our customers. New measures have also been taken. From now on, customers can postpone their departure up to 48 hours in advance without any penalty, even if the ticket is already paid. We have improved our services,” explained a ticket agent.
In the middle of the high season, the cultural and sports agenda is attracting crowds. Events are multiplying and diversifying in Mahajanga.
The national school championships, which began last week, bring together more than 4,000 participants, not counting officials and chaperones. Added to this is the Madagascar swimming championship in a 25-meter pool, which begins today at the Les Papons pool in Saint-Gabriel and will continue for three days.
The Boeny Rally is also one of the major sporting events of the week. Having become a tradition, it attracts a loyal audience every year. The competition, which started yesterday, will end on Sunday.
Culturally, shows and concerts are also multiplying starting today. Several renowned artists will perform in various establishments in the city. Rija Ramanantoanina will give a show tonight at the Mangarivotra House of Culture, before a cabaret tomorrow at the La Promenade hotel by the sea.
The group Ambondrona will also be on stage at the Holidays hotel in Amborovy as part of the celebration of their 25-year career. Tovo J’hay will, for his part, give an exceptional evening tonight at the Vatobe hotel-restaurant.
The Koraita group from the FJKM Manarintsoa Isotry church is also expected this weekend for an evangelical concert. Furthermore, the city of Mahajanga will be the convergence point for thousands of pastors from the FJKM Reformed Church for the national pastoral retraining scheduled from August 18 to 22 at the Ziona Vaovao church.
The fourth Madagascar motorcycle championship will take place on the Saint-Gabriel road on August 22 and 23. Other cultural events are still announced starting next week.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-14 06:09:21 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/vacances-affluence-record-mahajanga.html