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
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)

Iharana is served by a local airport and maritime harbour. 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]

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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