Crime/Safety in Madagascar

naraj New member

Member since 08 November 2018

narajNew member08 November 2018 06:18:21

Hello. I’m considering a move (with my wife and small children) to either Diego Suarez, or more likely Fort Dauphin or Ile Sainte Marie. Reading online, most visitors to Madagascar appear to say it is pretty safe compared to most developing countries, but some others say it is very dangerous. Since my family will be going with me, I want to get an accurate picture of the safety situation before making a final decision, but opinions seem to be all over the place. How dangerous do you think it would be for us in Fort Dauphin, Ile Sainte Marie or Diego Suarez? Thanks in advance.

manoaratefy New member

Member since 04 December 2018

manoaratefyNew member04 December 2018 06:21:57

Good morning,

I currently live in Madagascar and I think that it is pretty safe. I would prefer Diego Suarez of Sainte Marie island. Rumor has it that the southern part of the island is more dangerous. (not proved)

Also, would you consider another cities? I was in Nosy Be and found this island the most secure as it has the smart city project.

Now, I'm living in Antsirabe (167 km from Antananarivo) and enjoy it. Antsirabe is a small city where 80% people know each other. It is also secure in the downtown (19 years living in Antsirabe, neve got security issue).

naraj New member

Member since 08 November 2018

narajNew member04 December 2018 07:04:04

Thanks for the info. Antsirabe seems like it may be the nicest non-beach city in Madagascar, but I miss the ocean, so I that’s why I am considering the others. I was under the impression that the security situation in Nosy Be is going downhill a bit. I read a nightmarish story online regarding a family’s personal experience there of being violently robbed inside their home by a group of robbers and they seemed to think the risk is increasing. While not most tourists’ 1st choice, I love the natural setting (windy and surrounded by mountains and ocean) of Fort Dauphin and I’m hoping the rumors are exaggerated.

K Henry04 Member

Member since 22 April 2015

K Henry04Member18 March 2019 10:33:20

Yes Fort Dauphin would be a better pick. Not only is it close to the ocean but it has an international flights to Reunion if you have to leave the country fast for medical reasons or for a nice vacation. No need to travel back to Tana. No matter where you live now crime is increasing everywhere. So please be safe and hire a watchman for your house. Also always be careful & aware. Remember you are a foreigner. Although Malagasy people are friendly and helpful to visitors. There seems to be an increase of robbery in day time too

TropicAlex Banned

Member since 05 April 2016

TropicAlexBanned18 March 2019 14:35:06

1696

crime and safety depends on how you plan to move here and your status as a an immigrant in the Malagasy community. What is your status for you to move to Madagascar with your family?

TropicAlex Banned

Member since 05 April 2016

TropicAlexBanned21 March 2019 22:54:23

1696

here is a good read about your question.
https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=559975

Your status into the country will make the difference. Such as will the company you work with place you in a safe neighborhood and a guarded community. Pay for school which is expensive for foreigners .