Men sit and chat about the zebu being bought and sold at the zebu market in Ambalavao, Madagascar. 26 October 2022



The zebu market in Ambalavao is held on Wednesdays and is the second largest of its kind in Madagascar. Cattle sellers from all over the island, including some who have travelled hundreds of kilometres from Tulear, come to participate in the market. The event is a major attraction and visitors can witness the excitement and activity of market day. Although the importance of cattle has declined due to a lack of available pasture, they still play a significant role in the economy of Madagascar. Cattle grazing occupies 55% of the country's land area, and cattle provide the primary source of income for 60% of households (based on 2000 data). In certain parts of Madagascar, possession of cattle is even more significant than land ownership in terms of determining wealth.