Madagascar: Further protests triggered by increased power cuts likely nationwide through at least late November /update 1

Ongoing power shortages will likely generate further protest incidents in Madagascar through at least late November. In early August, the Jirama, Madagascar's national electricity utility, reported a drop in electricity production following an incident at the Andekaleka hydropower plant and low water levels. The utility has since resumed rolling power cuts; while authorities have scheduled up to 6 hours daily, reports suggest that they have lasted for as long as 22 hours. Lack of power has also limited the provision of water in some areas of the capital and northern Madagascar. Authorities have reportedly deployed emergency petrol- and solar-powered powerplants and conducted cloud-seeding operations to cause rainfall. For further updates on ongoing shortages and affected locations, please click here.

Protests after nightfall have been reported across Antananarivo and surrounds, including the areas of Ambatomaro, Ambohibao, Ambohipo, Ambohidratrimo, Ampefiloha, Analamahitsy, Andoharanofotsy, Andraisoro, the "Cite des 67Ha", Tanjombato, and Tsarahonenana. Police have been deployed to monitor events. Clashes between protesters and police forces, involving road blockages and tear gas, have led to multiple injuries and at least eleven arrests.

Further protests and localized disruptions are likely in the coming weeks as the utility continues to implement power cuts; they could increase in intensity should authorities announce price hikes. Increased security is likely nationwide, especially in Antananarivo. Clashes between residents and security forces are possible. Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are likely during power outages; cellular and mobile services could be affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are possible during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Trains may also experience delays if outages impact signaling devices or overhead wires. Power outages could also result in temporarily unavailable essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages.