Madagascar has been awarded the prestigious Babacar NDIAYE Trophy for its commitment to sustainable mobility infrastructure. The Babacar NDIAYE Trophy is an initiative of the Africa Road Builders organisation. The Selection Committee, which comprised experts from Africa and beyond, considered public reports from various international institutions and organisations on roads and transport in Africa. The committee also used the Media Network for Infrastructure and Finance in Africa’s 2023 report as the basis for their work.
The theme for this year’s trophy was “Sustainable mobility in Africa, a lever for development.” Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina, was designated as the Laureate of the Super Prize Great Builder – Babacar NDIAYE Trophy 2023 for his leadership and investments in providing Madagascar with mobility infrastructure.
The Selection Committee highlighted the Iarivo ring road, a peripheral highway of the city of Antananarivo, which contains pedestrian and cycle paths alongside the motorised paths. The road has secure bus stops and rubbish drop-off points for better collection and is resolutely at the service of the population.
The Committee also noted the expansion of Ivato airport, which now has improved car parks and visible pedestrian signs taking into account people with reduced mobility.
The Committee unveiled its gratitude and extended thanks to Honourable Prince Adegoroye, State Minister for Transportation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Mr. Mansour Faye, Minister of Transport of Senegal. They also thanked the African Development Bank and its President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, for their continuous efforts in favour of road and transport infrastructure across Africa.
Madagascar will receive the trophy on May 26, 2023, on the sidelines of the African Development Bank’s Annual Meetings in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt. Previous winners include Tanzania’s President, HE Samia Suluhu Hassan, Senegal’s President, Macky Sall, among others.
