The Antandroy, nicknamed “those of the thorns,” live in Madagascar’s most arid region, in the extreme south of the island. Highly active and mobile, some have gradually settled in the north, fleeing the drought and scarcity of water and food in the south. Their nickname comes from the local vegetation, dominated by thorny plants.
In these harsh lands, the Antandroy maintain an austere pastoral culture. Their daily priority is to find water and pasture for their herds. Like the Mahafaly, they venerate the “Ombiasy,” healers renowned for their mastery of divination, known as “sikidy,” and traditional spells.
Despite these perceptions, the Antandroy remain one of Madagascar’s most cultured ethnic groups, with exceptional expertise in traditional dances and in crafting landihazo clothing. Their profound knowledge of nature and the environment highlights their remarkable adaptability.
The Antandroy are also known for their Valavato, parallelepiped-shaped stone tombs. These monuments can measure up to 50 square meters and 1.5 meters high. The deceased is placed in a coffin carved from two hollowed-out tree trunks. On either side of the Valavato, two standing stones symbolize man and woman: the male Valotalhy and the female Vatovavy. The tombs are often adorned with bucrânes and Aloalo (carved posts), frequently acquired from the Mahafaly.