Crisis Brief : Madagascar Gen Z Protests

Location:

Antananarivo and other cities across Madagascar.

Started:

25 September 2025. The population of Madagascar, mainly young people from Gen Z, took to the streets to demand their rights and draw attention to chronic power blackouts and water shortages.

Main actors:

• Protesters: Primarily youth, including “Leo Délestage” activists, students, and civil society groups.

• Government: President Andry Rajoelina, who recently dissolved his cabinet and dismissed PM Christian Ntsay.

• Security forces: Police and military deployed to enforce curfew and disperse crowds.

• Other voices: The Malagasy Episcopal Church calling for peace; Southern African Development Community (SADC) urging calm.

What is happening:

On 25 September, demonstrators filled the streets of Antananarivo and other cities to protest chronic power blackouts and water shortages. Initially focused on basic services, the demonstrations soon evolved into a broader outcry against poor governance and corruption, with protesters demanding that President Rajoelina step down. While the marches began peacefully, they escalated after security forces used tear gas and rubber bullets, resulting in casualties (figures remain disputed). In response, Rajoelina dissolved his government and pledged reforms, but public anger persists, and protesters continue to demand systemic changes.

Why it started:

Daily hardships, including rolling blackouts, lack of clean water, and rising living costs, have fueled frustration over years of government mismanagement and corruption. Mobilized through social media and inspired by other Gen Z-led movements across Africa, young people have organized mass protests under the banner of the “Leo Délestage” (“Fed up with blackouts”) movement.

What’s at stake:

Human lives are at risk if confrontations between protesters and security forces continue. Madagascar is experiencing its most severe unrest in years, putting the government’s legitimacy under strain. The protests have highlighted a growing generational divide, with youth increasingly alienated from leadership. Beyond national borders, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is closely monitoring the situation, as instability in Madagascar could have ripple effects across the Southern African region.

Why it matters now:

The protests reflect sustained public pressure on the government to address longstanding grievances. With the government dissolved, dialogue is ongoing with various interest groups to seek a solution. Protests have entered a sustained phase, with youth refusing to retreat until leadership changes occur. While the dismissal of the government shows that the crisis is exerting pressure on authorities, it may not satisfy all demands. The outcome will shape not only Madagascar’s governance but also the trajectory of youth-driven protest movements across Africa.

References

1. Africanews. (2025, October 1). Madagascar: Protests ongoing to demand president's resignation as police presence grows. Africanews. https://www.africanews.com/2025/10/01/madagascar-protests-ongoing-to-demand-presidents-resignation-as-police-presence-grows/

2. AllAfrica. (2025, September 26). Madagascar: Deadly protests erupt in Madagascar over chronic blackouts and water cuts. AllAfrica. https://allafrica.com/stories/202509260315.html

3. Reuters. (2025, October 2). Madagascar youth protesters suspend marches in capital for 24 hours. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/madagascar-youth-protesters-suspend-marches-capital-24-hours-2025-10-02/