Madagascar Interim President Unveils 300‑Kg Emerald Found in Presidential Palace
Madagascar’s Interim President, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, has announced the discovery of a 300‑kilogram emerald gemstone 💎 inside the presidential palace, just a month after assuming power following a military-led takeover.
The gemstone, described as an “emerald in matrix” — an emerald still embedded in its host rock — was publicly displayed at the Ambohitsorohitra State Palace in the capital, Antananarivo.
President Randrianirina emphasized that the massive gem is a national asset belonging to the Malagasy people. “This gemstone represents the wealth of our nation,” he said, noting that expert analysis would be conducted to determine the quality, purity, and true value of the stone.
The announcement comes at a politically sensitive time, as Madagascar continues to grapple with the aftermath of the coup in mid‑October 2025, which saw Randrianirina installed as interim leader amid widespread protests over infrastructure failures and dissatisfaction with the previous administration.
Observers suggest that unveiling the gemstone may be part of an effort to assert control and demonstrate stewardship over national resources.
Madagascar is known for its rich mineral and gem reserves, including sapphires, graphite, and vanilla, yet a significant portion of its population lives in poverty.
The discovery of a gemstone of this size is unprecedented and could carry implications for both governance and economic strategy if the government decides to exploit it.
While officials have confirmed the gemstone’s existence and public display, several questions remain unanswered: how the gemstone came to be in the presidential palace, how long it had been there, and the specific plans for its future. Government authorities have yet to clarify whether the gem will be preserved, sold, or displayed in a national museum.
Experts note that a 300‑kilogram emerald could potentially be one of the largest of its kind ever found, but its exact value will depend on further gemological testing.
Analysts also caution that transparency in handling the gemstone will be crucial to prevent controversy, particularly in a country experiencing political instability.
The interim government has vowed to manage the discovery responsibly, framing it as a symbol of national pride and a potential catalyst for future resource management reforms.
The coming weeks are expected to bring detailed reports on the gemstone’s composition, value, and how it will be utilized to benefit Madagascar’s citizens.
