Closed in 1993 and reopened in 2009 by Le Relais Madagascar, the KARENJY automotive manufacturing plant is a source of pride for Madagascar. The Malagasy brand has enjoyed growing success thanks to its MAZANA II model.

KARENJY, born from Malagasy socialism

The KARENJY brand emerged under the impetus of President Didier Ratsiraka's socialism in the 1980s, during a period of "excessive investment". In addition to the creation of the Fiarafy automobile factory, a shipyard was developed in Mananjary and management of the Pangalanes Canal was taken over. The creation of the Hitsikitsika aircraft never came to fruition. All of this had been developed by the IMI, the Malagasy Institute of Innovation. KARENJY car production lasted from 1985 to 1990 and definitively ceased in 1993 during the Ratsiraka-Zafy Albert transition. The factory was placed under legal protection for 15 years, until Le Relais decided to restart operations in 2009. During its heyday, Fiarafy produced 3 KARENJY models, namely Iraka, Mazana, and Faoka, available in several versions: Kalesa, Lanja, and Jejo. We must not forget the unique 1989 piece—a Popemobile specially created for Pope John Paul II's visit to Fianarantsoa. It was restored and entrusted to the Diocese of Fianarantsoa.

KARENJY's Renaissance through Le Relais Madagascar

A member of Emmaüs France and the Inter-Network of Solidarity Fiber (IRFS), Le Relais arrived in Madagascar in 2008 with the goal of "developing socio-economic activities to create sustainable jobs for people in extreme poverty". The group's activities are diverse:

• TARATRA Sorting Center
• GASH'MLAY Textile Creation
• AINGAVAO Agricultural Development
• TIA Mutual Aid Fund
• FAKOFIA Waste Collection and Recovery
• Hospitality and Alternative Tourism
• KARENJY Automotive Manufacturing Workshop

Based in Fianarantsoa, the mechanical and automotive manufacturing workshop SOATAO of Le Relais Madagascar resumed car production in 2009. The objective was to become the only true African automobile manufacturer, producing vehicles suited to the Malagasy context (difficult roads, average-quality fuel, etc.) by adopting fitting characteristics: rusticity, reliability, economy, robustness, simplicity, and integrity.

Karenjy Manufacturing Plant

This engineering hub is staffed by an engineering team of approximately 85 people who prioritize quality and innovation. Their mission—to restart the factory—which seemed impossible proved successful, judging by the reception the KARENJY automobile collection received: the LANJA, MAZANA, and IRAKA models. Today, only the MAZANA II remains in production.

Where to Buy a KARENJY Car?

The MAZANA II model comes in three versions: ENDURANCE, PRESTIGE, and ESSENTIAL (sedan, utility vehicle, and 4x4). It is equipped with a DV6CM engine - Peugeot Citroën (4x4 version) with a 5-speed+R manual gearbox, a diesel tank with a capacity of 60 liters. The body is made of fiberglass and polyester laminate. The lines are straight and the design is minimalist. The interior can accommodate up to 6 people. It is entirely possible to visit the factory during a stopover in Fianarantsoa. KARENJY cars are of course sold there, but the brand collaborates with COMACAT (Malagasy Rubber Company) Ankorondrano (Antananarivo). This dealership is also KARENJY's supplier for rubber parts, namely engine mounts, silent blocks, seats, and so on.