Madagascar explained to kids

Madagascar is an island country located in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa. The main island, also called Madagascar, is the fourth largest island in the world. The country has a total area of 587,041 square kilometers. Madagascar is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The island's forests are especially rich in biodiversity. More than 90% of the country's plants and animals are found nowhere else on Earth. Madagascar has a tropical climate. The island is blessed with abundant rainfall and year-round sunshine. However, the country is vulnerable to tropical cyclones, which can cause damage and loss of life. Madagascar is one of the world's poorest countries. More than half of the population lives below the poverty line. The country's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture. Madagascar's main exports are coffee, vanilla, and shrimp. Madagascar is a constitutional republic. The president is the head of state and the prime minister is the head of government. The country has a unicameral legislature, the National Assembly. Madagascar is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Indian Ocean Commission.