“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
Mark 16:15 (KJV)

Brief History of Madagascar

Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, located off the southeast coast of Africa. It has a population of approximately 31.9 million people. The capital and largest city is Antananarivo. The island is known for its unique biodiversity, with over 90% of its wildlife being endemic.

Early Settlement

• Madagascar was first settled around 500 to 700 CE by Austronesian peoples from present-day Indonesia, followed by Bantu groups from East Africa.
• The island’s isolation allowed for the evolution of unique flora and fauna.

Kingdom of Madagascar

• By the 19th century, the Kingdom of Madagascar was established, primarily ruled by the Merina dynasty.
• King Andrianampoinimerina unified the kingdom, and his son Radama I expanded its influence.

French Colonization

• In 1897, Madagascar was annexed by France, leading to a colonial period that lasted until 1960.
• The French imposed labor systems and limited access to education, which caused significant unrest.

Independence and Political Instability

• Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960.
• The country has experienced repeated political instability, including coups and civil unrest, notably the 2009 coup that led to a prolonged political crisis.

Economy

Madagascar’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with key products including rice, coffee, and vanilla.

Despite its rich natural resources, Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest countries, heavily reliant on foreign aid. The economy has been further challenged by natural disasters, including cyclones.

Wars and Conflicts

• The island has faced various conflicts, particularly during the colonial period and post-independence.
• The most significant recent conflict was the 2009 coup, which resulted in international condemnation and economic sanctions, leading to a period of political deadlock.

CIYWR in Madagascar
As with our other Revival outreaches, we purposely work with local pastors and religious leaders well in advance of our Crusades, during the Revivals, and afterwards. We have found this partnership to be the most effective in winning souls for Christ and making solid disciples of the new converts. Because of the large area, and population, we have found that we must be very strategic with our resources (both financially and with our time).

CIYWR At Work in Madagascar
CIYWR’s Evangelistic Work in Madagascar includes Open Air Crusades (city and remote), Church Healing and Salvation Revivals, and Personal Outreach.

“For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.” Luke 9:56

CIYWR’s Service Work in Madagascar includes Hospital Visits, Ministering to the Poor, and local Church Growth and Outreach.

“Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.”
Acts 2: 38,39