Drones revolutionize medical supply deliveries in remote Madagascar

Since October 2024, drones have been utilized to transport vaccines and medical supplies to remote health centers in southwestern Madagascar, aiming to overcome logistical challenges and improve healthcare access.

This initiative, led by the Ministry of Public Health in collaboration with PSI Madagascar and supported by Gavi, targets 12 districts across three regions, with key launch sites in Sakaraha and Vangaindrano.

Each drone can carry up to 10 kilograms of cargo for distances under 50 kilometers and 5 kilograms for routes between 50 and 100 kilometers, completing journeys in approximately 30 minutes. This method bypasses impassable roads and security risks, ensuring timely deliveries even during adverse weather conditions.

Initially met with skepticism, the drone deliveries gained acceptance following a measles vaccination campaign that coincided with the first drone arrival, demonstrating the effectiveness of this technology in delivering essential medical supplies.

This project builds upon previous drone delivery efforts in Madagascar, including successful implementations in northeastern Maroantsetra since 2019 and expansions to other regions in subsequent years. The current phase aims to cover all districts in Atsimo-Andrefana and Atsimo-Atsinanana by the end of the year.