Cecile Cau
9 May 2002
Antananarivo — Political instability damages tourism
The economic blockade of the Madagascan capital Antananarivo has begun to backfire, cramping life in the port city of Toamasina where a rival government to that of elected President Marc Ravalomanana has been set up.
With roadblocks in place and at least seven bridges dynamited by supporters of former president Didier Ratsiraka, who disputes Ravalomanana's victory in December's poll, supplies of fuel to the capital have stopped.
Toamasina relies for its economic survival largely on its port and on tourism. But a major roadblock by Ratsiraka supporters at Brickaville, some 100km to the west on the road to Antananarivo, has seriously affected these activities.
With the main access route to the interior of the Indian Ocean island blocked, shipping containers are piling up at the port.
Some containers have been broken open and their contents sold on the black market. Many have been sent back to their ports of origin.
Dockworkers have deserted the port. Only about 2000 of the normal 5000 workers remained, a harbour official said.
Many have left for Brickaville, where the blockade has created an unusual demand for transhipment of goods.
"The workers earn four to five times more there than normal wage," a local businessman said.
"Twelve million Malagasy francs (à 1900) to transport 25000 tons to Antananarivo," offered a young transporter.
"It's a racket," said an operator. "And its all being done with the backing of Ratsiraka."
The former president, who wants a referendum held to determine who should be leader of Madagascar, has moved his administration to his new "capital" in Toamasina.
Four of the island's six provinces have declared their intention to secede in protest at Ravalomanana's investiture as president on Monday, leaving the country deeply divided, with no solution in sight.
Because of the political turbulence, tourists are shunning Madagascar, known for its beaches and array of rare species of wildlife, such as the lemur.
"Custom in the hotels is 90% down and 70% in restaurants," said a local professional.
Two main hotels have managed to pick up some custom by accommodating members of Ratsiraka's rival administration.
And while the roadblocks may be starving the capital of fuel, it is also preventing foodstuffs from the interior of the island from reaching the port.
Supermarkets have run out of sodas and mineral water while the price of tomatoes, for example, has shot up 300% since the blockade began in February.
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