A decades-long partnership between a mission hospital and MAF in Madagascar is keeping critical healthcare within reach: flying in staff, supplies, and support to those who need it most.
Story by Gino Antsatiana Randrianasolo
The Hôpitaly Vaovao Mahafaly (Good News Hospital) in Mandritsara, northern Madagascar, was born out of a vision for medical care and the message of Christ.
Bible Baptist churches from Madagascar and the Africa Evangelical Fellowship came together in 1988 to establish a mission hospital at the heart of this unreached region.
From its name to its daily work, the hospital stands as a testimony to the church serving people in need with excellence and compassion. Its ministry extends beyond surgery and maternity, reaching out through community health, radio, and midwifery training.
Ravololonjatovo Volasoa Harinandrianina, recently appointed Administrative and Financial Director, has served the hospital for many years and experienced firsthand both its growth and challenges. She knows all too well how difficult travel can be.
“The road is getting worse with the years,” she said. “It takes about 30 hours by car to reach Antananarivo.
“But when we fly with MAF, it’s only about 1 hour and 45 minutes. It really helps us get to Mandritsara faster, especially if key people are travelling.”
The hospital occasionally welcomes visitors from around the world, such as doctors, nurses, and volunteers who come to serve, even if just for a short time. Some stay for only two weeks, which means every hour counts.
Instead of enduring a gruelling two-day journey on rough roads, they can fly with MAF and reach their destination in under two hours, giving them more time where it truly counts: at the hospital, with their patients.
Among those long‑term servants is Hilde Vlaminckx, from Belgium, who first came to Mandritsara in 1997 as a nurse and now serves as deputy team leader and part of hospital management. Having spent over 21 years here, she’s seen firsthand what a difference reliable aviation makes.
“It’s especially challenging for people coming for a short period of time,” said Hilde, boarding an MAF flight carrying temperature‑sensitive medical supplies. “These supplies are hard to manage by road. Urgent documents and lab samples are exactly the kinds of things we sometimes need to fly.”
While she enjoys meeting people along the road, Hilde finds a profound sense of peace knowing there’s aviation support nearby.
“It’s reassuring to know that MAF or Helimission are available in case of an emergency.”
The Good News Hospital also plays a key role in maintaining the Mandritsara airstrip, ensuring that MAF can continue safe and reliable air services in this life-changing partnership.
It’s reassuring to know that MAF or Helimission are available in case of an emergency