Madagascar

Population: 20 million. Languages: Malagasy, French. Religions: traditional, Christian.

52% of Malagasy citizens practice indigenous religious beliefs. 40% are Christian, but many of the Christian churches incorporate indigenous practices, such as communication with the dead.

Madagascar was a French colony until 1960, after which it endured numerous political crises and suffered from inept economic policy, notably under the authoritarian rule of Admiral Didier Ratsiraka. After the latest political crisis in 2002, President Ravalomanana began many reform projects with the aim of boosting the economy, particularly by attracting more foreign investment. However, the country remains one of the world's poorest.

Link man

Correspondence team leader

CBM activities The first visit to Madagascar was made by Andrew Robson in 2003 to advertise the Bible Correspondence Course. Two further trips were made in 2004 and 2005 to meet contacts and to place further advertisements. About 90 people have requested the course. Simon and Gemma Tarry made a six-month visit in 2007.

Ecclesias None.

French literature