• Madagascar begins drafting national cybersecurity strategy amid rising digital use
• Strategy to address cyber threats, child protection, and digital justice issues
• Aims to upgrade outdated laws, boost skills, and protect critical infrastructure

Madagascar last week launched work on its national cybersecurity strategy during a kickoff workshop held in Antananarivo, bringing together government officials, digital experts, and technical partners.

The meeting marks a key step in the country’s efforts to establish a coherent framework to protect its cyberspace, as digital adoption accelerates across public administration, financial services, and the broader economy.

Stakeholders involved in the process aim to finalize the strategy within three months. The document will address issues including online child protection, combating gender-based violence, digital justice, and international cooperation in response to cyberattacks and data breaches, said Eric Nirina Rakotomaniraka, head of digital incident response at the national Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT).

Operationally, the strategy is expected to strengthen prevention, detection, and response mechanisms for cyber incidents. It includes measures to build national capacity in digital forensics, improve coordination between public institutions and private-sector actors, and develop local cybersecurity skills. The strategy is also intended to serve as a basis for updating the regulatory framework, as Madagascar’s 2014 cybersecurity law has become increasingly outdated amid rapidly evolving technologies and threats.

The initiative comes as internet use continues to expand, while structural vulnerabilities in information systems persist. According to the Digital 2025 report, Madagascar had around 6.6 million internet users in 2025, representing just over 20% of the population — a relatively low level, but one that is steadily increasing.

At the same time, cybersecurity capacity remains limited. In its 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ranks Madagascar in Tier 4 out of five, pointing to significant gaps in technical infrastructure, institutional coordination, skills development, and international cooperation.

Authorities say the implementation of the national cybersecurity strategy should strengthen protection of critical digital infrastructure, boost confidence among users and investors, and support the country’s digital transformation. By reinforcing its digital sovereignty, Madagascar aims to create a safer environment for innovation, the expansion of online public services, and deeper integration into regional and global digital ecosystems.

Samira Njoya