Building bridges

29/04/2026

At IBL Madagascar’s open-plan offices in the heart of Antananarivo, there’s a constant hum of activity. Here, no two days are ever the same. Conversations shift from strategy to operations as teams from Mauritius, colleagues from subsidiaries and teams from the provinces come and go. The space feels alive, much like the work being done.

“Madagascar holds a unique place in the Indian Ocean and East African region,” says Avo Andriantsisosotra, Country Manager of IBL Madagascar, who has worked for the company for 22 years. “Its strategic location, its young and qualified workforce, and its natural resources offer real business opportunities.” Over 25 years after IBL first began operating on the island, those opportunities have multiplied. Today, IBL Madagascar has a nationwide presence and a steadily growing workforce.

 

From freight to flight…

From Madcourrier, a small logistics company established on the Great Red Island 25 years ago, IBL Madagascar has grown into a trusted national name in freight forwarding, aviation, tourism, and professional training – four key sectors that help Madagascar stay connected to the region and the world. Through Australair GSA Mada, the official representative of Air Austral and Ewa Air in Madagascar, the Group keeps the island connected to its neighbours and fosters cultural exchange, tourism and economic ties across the region.

 

Arcadia Travel’s team, on the other hand, helps the world experience Madagascar in all its beauty and diversity. The Destination Management Company (DMC), tour operator and travel agency, leverages Madagascar’s rich tourism potential while setting new benchmarks in service quality.

 

And building on its regional expertise in logistics and aviation industries, IBL has also founded a training centre to equip young Malagasy professionals with the relevant skills to improve service standards in these fields. “Through this training centre, we aim to play an active role in strengthening the country’s logistics, tourism and aviation industries,” says Avo.

 

A team rooted in purpose

At the heart of IBL Madagascar is a close-knit team of over a hundred people – professionals united by a shared sense of mission and belonging. At its head is Avo Andriantsisosotra, who has been part of IBL Madagascar’s journey for more than a decade. She began her career in sales and went on to launch several of its flagship ventures, including GSA Mada, Arcadia Travel and the training centre. Alongside her, Hoby Rakotozanany, Group Finance Manager, oversees the Group’s financial management, while Tiana Ramaroson, Human Resources Manager, focuses on developing local talent and fostering internal mobility across the Group.

 

 

With over 20 years of experience, Waheeda Serally took over the management and development of Australair GSA Mada in June last year. She has also played a key role in establishing G2ACamas in Madagascar.

 

Behind them, a team based in Mauritius provides support and guidance. Yannis Fayd’herbe, COO of IBL Logistics, and Cougen Purseramen, Head of the Industrial, Engineering & Logistics clusters, work closely with the local team. Philippe Hannelas, General Manager of IBL Aviation, has also been deeply involved in developing Madagascar’s aviation and tourism sectors – two industries vital to the country’s growth and connectivity. Together, they ensure that IBL Madagascar’s operations remain closely aligned with the IBL Group’s long-term regional vision.

Staying connected

Despite having operations spread across the island, IBL Madagascar’s team remains closely connected. “I’ve literally just come back from Tamatave, and someone else will be visiting another branch very soon,” says Avo. Whether it’s a solo visit to provide support and oversee operations, or a group mission for audits or specific projects, the teams are mobile and in constant communication. But connection for IBL Madagascar also means community. IBL Madagascar is a founding member of the Private Sector Humanitarian Platform (PSHP), which mobilises aid during natural disasters, and the Group’s teams take part in reforestation activities every year.

 

Looking ahead

For Avo and her team, the next chapter is about scale and impact. “We’re building something lasting,” she says. “It’s about growing responsibly, investing in people, and positioning Madagascar where it deserves to be – at the heart of regional trade and connectivity.”

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