Since last week, the City of Flowers has experienced unprecedented crowds and record attendance. The multiplication of events is energizing the local economy. The national school championship is drawing massive crowds. Long-distance taxis are struggling to meet demand. For several days, more than a thousand visitors and holidaymakers have been arriving in or leaving Mahajanga daily. On average, around a hundred long-distance taxis and as many private vehicles are recorded each day at the national bus terminals of Aranta, Cotisse, and Soatrans, and at the city entrance.
"Statistics show that 1,063 passengers arrived on August 5 at Aranta bus terminal and 799 others were recorded departing the previous day. Among private transporters like Cotisse, the peak was recorded on August 8 with 15 vehicles carrying 240 passengers. At Soatrans, 13 vehicles with 185 passengers arrived on August 5. This averages 1,400 passengers disembarking in Mahajanga daily," explained the regional director of the Land Transport Agency (ATT) in Mahajanga.
"We are trying to satisfy our clients. New measures are also being implemented. Now, clients can postpone their departure up to 48 hours in advance without any penalty, even if the ticket is already paid. We have improved our services," explained a ticket agent.
At the height of peak season, the cultural and sporting calendar attracts crowds. Events are multiplying and diversifying in Mahajanga.
A City Celebrating
The national school championships, which began last week, bring together more than 4,000 participants, not counting officials and accompanying staff. Added to this is Madagascar's 25-meter pool swimming championship, which begins today at Les Papons de Saint-Gabriel pool and will continue for three days.
The Boeny Rally is also one of the week's major sporting events. Now a tradition, it attracts a loyal audience each year. The competition, launched yesterday, will end Sunday.
Culturally, shows and concerts are also multiplying from today onwards. Several renowned artists will perform in various venues throughout the city. Rija Ramanantoanina will perform tonight at the Mangarivotra Cultural Center, followed by a cabaret tomorrow at La Promenade hotel by the sea.
The Ambondrona group will also take the stage at Holidays hotel in Amborovy, celebrating 25 years of their career. Tovo J'hay will perform an exceptional evening tonight at Vatobe restaurant-hotel.
The Koraita group from FJKM Manarintsoa Isotry is also expected this weekend for an evangelical concert. Mahajanga will also be the convergence point for thousands of pastors from the FJKM Reformed Church for the national pastoral refresher course scheduled from August 18-22 at Ziona Vaovao church.
Madagascar's fourth motorcycle championship will take place on the Saint-Gabriel road on August 22-23. Other cultural events are still being announced from next week onwards.