Vohemar

Vohemar (Malagasy: Vohimarina [vuiˈmarʲnə̥] or Iharan̈a [iaˈraŋə̥]) is a coastal city and commune (Malagasy: firaisana) in northern Madagascar. It belongs to the district of Iharana, which is a part of Sava Region. The population of the commune was estimated to be approximately 15,000 in 2001 commune census.[1]

Not to be confused with Vohemar District.
Vohemar
Iharana
Port and Bay of Vohemar
Vohemar
Location in Madagascar
Coordinates: 13°21′35″S 50°0′41″E
Country Madagascar
RegionSava
DistrictVohemar
Population
 (2001)[1]
 • Total15,000
Time zoneUTC3 (EAT)

In addition to primary schooling the town offers secondary education at both junior and senior levels. The town provides access to hospital services to its citizens.[1]

From the late medieval period, Northern Madagascar had a number of small and large trading towns ruled by Swahili merchants. Vohemar, one such town, was likely founded around the 13th Century as a Swahili trading port.[2]

Farming and raising livestock provides employment for 20% and 5% of the working population. The most important crop is cassava, while other important products are peanut, maize and rice. Industry and services provide employment for 20% and 45% of the population, respectively. Additionally fishing employs 10% of the population.[1]

Infrastructures

There is a seaport and a local airport.

Vohemar is situated at the Route National 5a that connects the city with Ambilobe and Sambava/Antalaha.

References and notes
  1. "ILO census data". Cornell University. 2002. Retrieved 2008-02-27.
  2. Newitt, Malyn. "The Comoro Islands in Indian Ocean Trade before the 19th Century." Cahiers d'Études Africaines, Vol. 23, Cahier 89/90 (1983), Page 143


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