Marovoay

Marovoay (Malagasy pronunciation: [marʷˈvwaj]) is an urban municipality in north-western Madagascar. It belongs to the district of Marovoay, which is a part of Boeny Region. The population of the commune was estimated to be approximately 65,000 in 2001 commune census.[3]

For other places with the same name, see Marovoay (disambiguation).
Marovoay
Marovoay is located in Madagascar
Marovoay
Marovoay
Location in Madagascar
Coordinates: 16°6′40″S 46°38′38″E
Country Madagascar
RegionBoeny
DistrictMarovoay
Area
[1]
 • Total102.77 km2 (39.68 sq mi)
Elevation
[2]
48 m (157 ft)
Population
 (2001)[3]
 • Total65,000
 • Ethnicities
Sakalava Merina Betsileo
Time zoneUTC3 (EAT)
Postal code
416

Origin of the name

Marovoay means "Full of crocodiles". In 1800 this locality was called Kelimaizina, later on it was named Fihaonana before it was renamed Marovoay, a name that was given by the queen Ravahiny.[4]

It was the capital of the Sakalava Boina Kingdom, which still are predominant today but also Merina and Betsileo live in the town, mainly in the fokontany (villages) Antsatramira, Tsimahajao, Itandravaha, Soaniadanana, Mandrosoa and Ankingabe.

Economy

The region of Marovoay is the 2nd largest rice producing area in Madagascar. The majority 60% of the population of the commune are farmers, while an additional 24% receives their livelihood from raising livestock. The most important crop is rice, while other important products are cassava and sweet potatoes. Industry and services provide employment for 2% and 10% of the population, respectively. Additionally fishing employs 4% of the population.[3]

Geography

Marovoay has a riverine harbour on the Betsiboka River and is situated at 94 km from Mahajanga and 41 km from the Ankarafantsika National Park.

Rivers

The main rivers are the Betsiboka River and the Karambo river.

Roads

The town is situated at the National road 8b that is in a bad state of conversation.[5] Furthermore it is situated only 8 km from the National road 4 from Mahajanga to Antananarivo.

In addition to primary schooling the town offers secondarmy education at both junior and senior levels. The town provides access to hospital services to its citizens.[3]

References
  1. Monographie de la Commune
  2. Estimated based on DEM data from Shuttle Radar Topography Mission
  3. "ILO census data". Cornell University. 2002. Retrieved 2008-03-02.
  4. Monographie de la Commune
  5. Marovoay

16°06′40″S 46°38′38″E


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