Development potential Vast resources, biodiversity, and a young population

The country has a young population, and at the economic hub in the capital one can witness the potential for innovative entrepreneurship. The country's natural conditions mean that environmentally friendly energy can be produced in the form of solar, wind and hydropower. And Madagascar's natural beauty and diversity are among its greatest assets. This biodiversity is invaluable globally because it is so unique. Tourism is already an important economic factor and can be further developed – on a sustainable basis. Ecotourism in particular is a potential new source of income for the people.

And the country's biodiversity also offers opportunities for research into and the use of medicinal and healing plants. However, efforts to increase economic activity and secure the basis for people's livelihoods need to be harmonised with the conservation and sustainable use of the remaining rainforest.

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Chameleon in Madagascar

Mining, too, can contribute to sustainable development. Madagascar has rich deposits of titanium, nickel, bauxite and graphite. However, resource extraction must not lead to far-reaching environmental degradation, and the revenue must benefit the people, for example through funding for government services. At this point, child labour in the mines and corruption and a focus on personal gain among the elites are still major impediments to national development.