Andry Nirina Rajoelina is a well-known businessman and politician who has played a key role in shaping modern Madagascar. From DJ and entrepreneur to mayor and eventually president, his journey is one of ambition, bold decisions, and national impact.

Early Life and Background

Andry Rajoelina was born on May 30, 1974, in Antsirabe, Madagascar. Before entering politics, he was active in the entertainment and business scene.

He started as a disc jockey (DJ) in the 1990s and later launched several successful businesses:

• Show Business (events & concerts)

• Injet (digital printing)

• DomaPub (advertising and billboards)

• Viva TV and Viva FM (media channels)

His early business success made him one of the rising young entrepreneurs in the country.

Political Rise and Leadership Roles

Mayor of Antananarivo (2007)

In 2007, Rajoelina was elected as Mayor of Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital city. This position increased his visibility and influence in national politics.

Head of Transition (2009–2014)

In 2009, following a political crisis and public protests against then-President Marc Ravalomanana, Rajoelina led a takeover and became head of the High Transitional Authority. At just 34 years old, he was the youngest leader in Africa at the time.

President of Madagascar (2019–Present)

He returned to politics in 2018 and won the presidential election. He officially resumed office in January 2019 and was re-elected in 2023, beginning a second term in December that year.

Achievements in Office

Andry Rajoelina is known for focusing on infrastructure and economic development. Some of his key accomplishments include:

• Road and bridge projects, especially the Antananarivo ring road project.

• Launch of the Plan Emergence Madagascar, a vision for transforming the country’s economy.

• Boosting investments in transport, energy, and agriculture.

• Encouraging local manufacturing and production.

In 2023, he was awarded the Babacar Ndiaye Super Prize for leadership in infrastructure development in Africa.

Controversies and Criticism

Despite his popularity in many areas, Rajoelina’s leadership has not been without criticism:

• In 2020, he promoted a local herbal drink (Covid-Organics) as a cure for COVID-19, which sparked global debate.

• He faced legal questions over his French citizenship, which critics said could violate constitutional rules.

• The 2023 election was marred by opposition boycotts and low voter turnout.

• His critics also accuse him of growing authoritarian tendencies and limiting political freedom.

Still, his administration maintains that it is committed to national development and modernization.

Net Worth Estimate (2025)

Andry Rajoelina’s net worth is estimated to be between $900m to $1billion. However, it is widely believed that:

• His wealth stems from his pre-political business ventures, particularly in media, advertising, and printing.

• As president, his lifestyle and properties have attracted public attention, but exact financial disclosures are not publicly available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What political party does Rajoelina belong to?
He leads the TGV Movement (Tanora malaGasy Vonona – Young Malagasies Determined).

Q2: How many times has he been President?
He led the transitional government from 2009 to 2014, and was officially elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2023.

Q3: What is “Plan Emergence Madagascar”?
It is his long-term strategy to modernize Madagascar’s economy through investments in infrastructure, industry, and human capital.

Q4: Was he disqualified for having French citizenship?
No. Although he acquired French nationality in 2014, the High Constitutional Court ruled that he could still contest and hold office.

Q5: What awards has he received?
In 2023, he won the Babacar Ndiaye Super Prize for infrastructure leadership in Africa.

Conclusion

Andry Rajoelina’s life is a story of transformation—from a DJ and businessman to one of Africa’s youngest and boldest presidents. His leadership has focused on rebuilding Madagascar through infrastructure, job creation, and foreign investment.

Though his administration has drawn controversy and legal challenges, especially concerning elections and citizenship, Rajoelina continues to command strong influence. As of 2025, he remains a central figure in Madagascar’s political and economic future.