On June 26th Madagascar celebrates its independence. It is also the beginning of the school holidays. On the eve of the 26th there is a traditional display of fireworks.

Party Centre Lambahoany

For the first time there was also a roaring party at Centre Lambahaony. All secondary schools were invited to have their talented students perform at Centre Lambahoany. It was a tremendous success. All morning different martial arts groups showed their skills. Well known martial arts were represented, like Karate, Tae Kwando, Poekoelan, Capoeira and Kick boxing, but also two Malagasy Kung Fy styles: Kung Fu Kudo Washi and Kung Fu Ga Ma Ka.

At 3 o’clock p.m. the music- and dance groups mounted the stage. Many different styles of music could be heard, rock, punk but also traditional Malagasy music and dance. It was a good atmosphere all day long. Everyone applauded for all the artists, also – especially – those from other schools. The disco afterwards lasted till the early hours.

June 26th is an important day in Madagascar, the day the country became independent after almost seventy years of French colonial rule.

Traditionally in Toamasina, this day is commemorated with a parade on the Avenue de l’Indépendance, where all kinds of social groups present themselves. On the urgent request of the Poekoelan students of Centre Lambahoany, the Poekoelan School participated in the parade. After waiting for several hours, the students paraded the Avenue where Important People and ordinary people were watching. Together with representatives of other Martial Arts they formed a colourful procession.

Centre Lambahoany was mentioned twice by the announcer: Poekoelan of Centre Lambahoany and Capoeira of Centre Lambahoany!