Soalara or Soalara Sud is a rural municipality in Madagascar. It belongs to the district of Toliara II, which is a part of Atsimo-Andrefana Region. The population of the commune was estimated to be approximately 7774 in 2006.[3]
Soalara is served by a local airport and riverine harbour. Primary and junior level secondary education are available in town. The majority 60% of the population works in fishing. 15% are farmers, while an additional 20% receives their livelihood from raising livestock. The most important crop is cassava, while other important products are sweet potatoes and cowpeas. Services provide employment for 5% of the population.[4]
Geography
It is situated at the southern side of the mouth of the Onilahy River. A ferry used to assure transport to Saint Augustin, Madagascar but it broke down.[5] It is necessary to take small outrigger canoes or to make the trip around the bay (250 km).
Infrastructure
There is none. The infrastructure of this town can be called a disaster: there is no post-office, no water supplies, no electricity, no hospital. The harbor has fallen into pieces. Ferry: none. And its airport? Just forget it ! Access by route to the next point of civilisation: 300km (unpaved).[6]
3 radio stations can be received and there are 3 shops.
Communes
Soalara Sud
Number of fokontany (villages): 07
Name of the fokontany (villages) : Soalara Haut, Soalara Bas, Marovale, Sirafaly, Ankilimnivony, Andranotohoke, Ambahevahe
