Madagascar police numbers increase
The Ministry of Public Security aims to reduce the ratio of one police officer to 3,000 inhabitants.
Madagascar's national police force is expanding its ranks through two recruitment drives this year. The first wave added 500 student officers to the National School for Inspectors and Police Officers in Antsirabe. A second recruitment drive, with initial stages on September 26 and 27, seeks 20 commissars, 30 inspectors, and 850 police agents.
These new recruits address a significant shortage, as Madagascar currently has one police officer for every 3,000 citizens, falling short of international standards. The ministry stated these efforts aim to bring the police closer to the population, acknowledging the long road ahead. Regional security directorates have also been established in Boeny, Melaky, Betsiboka, Sofia, Diana, and Sava.
The ministry inaugurated new and rehabilitated infrastructures this year, including regional directorates, police stations, and posts. These facilities have been equipped with vehicles, motorcycles, and computer hardware to enhance community engagement. Police Inspector General Erick Michel urged these locations to become centers for strategy development to ensure security.
Why it mattersThe Ministry of Public Security is increasing police numbers and improving infrastructure to better serve the population.