At dawn, bush taxis arrive in convoy from Antsirabe and Antananarivo. The first bustle of the market begins, with stalls being set up and locals preparing for the day.
Malaimbady, located at the junction of National Roads 34 (towards Miandrivazo and Antsirabe) and 35 (towards Morondava and Ambositra), is a strategic crossroads and a gateway to the northern Makay massif.
The town’s name, Malaimbady, which translates as “the one who doesn’t like lies,” stems from an important historical story. This commune is part of the Mahabo district in the Menabe region. It serves as a key stop for those exploring the western part of Madagascar, particularly for those embarking on expeditions to the Makay. The town is situated near the Sakeny River, which flows into the Tsiribihina.
Malaimbady was once part of the Sakalava Kingdom of Menabe. On June 13, 1822, after his victory over the Sakalava ruler Ramitraho, Radama I succeeded in subduing the region. Back in Antananarivo, Radama, infatuated with Ramitraho’s daughter, sent messengers to persuade her to come. However, the princess, suspicious and believing it to be a ruse, replied with “Malaim-bandy” (I fear it’s a lie), thus giving the town its now-famous name.