Madagascar's ongoing power and water outages have sparked deadly protests, shedding light on the country's infrastructure crisis. Can technology solve the growing unrest?
 |
| Madagascar's power and water shortages have sparked violence, leaving citizens angry. Image: CH |
Antananarivo, Madagascar — September 30, 2025:
Madagascar is facing an infrastructure crisis that extends far beyond its power lines and water pipes. As President Andry Rajoelina dissolves his government in the wake of deadly youth protests, the root of the unrest is clear: widespread power and water shortages have pushed citizens to the brink. This ongoing crisis is not just a political issue, but one that points to a broader technological and infrastructural failure.
Over the past several years, Madagascar has faced chronic power cuts and water shortages, conditions that have increasingly affected daily life for its citizens. The frustrations boiled over in late September 2025 when youth-led protests erupted, inspired by similar movements in Kenya and Nepal. According to the United Nations, the unrest left at least 22 dead and over 100 injured, underscoring the dangerous consequences of infrastructure failures that remain unaddressed.
The technological component of this crisis is multifaceted. Madagascar’s energy infrastructure is outdated, with much of the electricity coming from unreliable sources and the national grid suffering from maintenance and technical challenges. Power outages are not just inconvenient—they have become a way of life for many, affecting everything from businesses to households. The same applies to water shortages, which are often linked to a lack of modern infrastructure and water treatment technology.
At the heart of the issue is a fundamental question: Can technology offer a long-term solution to Madagascar's infrastructure crisis? While President Rajoelina has acknowledged the people's grievances, promising to support affected businesses and create space for dialogue, the question remains whether short-term measures will suffice or if systemic technological investments are necessary to prevent further unrest.
The protests have shown the power of digital organizing, with youth groups using social media to mobilize across the country. This digital savviness contrasts sharply with the country’s outdated infrastructure. Despite a growing youth demographic that is well-connected and eager for change, the country’s power and water systems are often left in the shadows of government priorities. Technology, both in terms of energy solutions and water management systems, could be a game-changer for Madagascar, offering smarter grids and more efficient resource management. However, the current lack of investment in these areas has left the nation vulnerable to the kind of public backlash seen in September.
Technological solutions such as solar power, wind energy, and decentralized water systems have been successfully implemented in other parts of Africa. These technologies, which offer more sustainable and localized approaches to energy and water distribution, could be adapted to Madagascar’s specific needs. If the country invests in these innovative solutions, it could alleviate some of the underlying causes of unrest.
Moreover, the lack of advanced technology in the public sector has left the government without the tools necessary for effective crisis management. The government’s dismissal of the United Nations' casualty figures—stating they were based on rumors and misinformation—also reveals a gap in the government’s ability to use digital platforms to monitor and respond to crises in real time. A more robust technological infrastructure could improve governmental transparency and communication, potentially reducing tensions.
The ongoing power and water shortages have amplified the frustrations of a population that feels neglected by its leaders. The role of technology, both as a tool for protest and a potential solution, has never been more evident. If Madagascar is to prevent future uprisings and create a more stable society, it will need to address its technological and infrastructural gaps. Until then, the risk of continued unrest remains high, fueled by the daily struggles of life without reliable power and water.