Betsiriry

Betsiriry was a historical region in Madagascar, located between the two affluents of the Tsiribihina River: the Mahajilo and the Mania. Betsiriry was also known for its auriferous deposits.Betsiriry currently belongs to the Miandrivazo District.^[2][3]

Betsiriry is one of the regions settled by communities of internal refugees in Madagascar, whose intermarriage led to the formation of groups known as the Bemihimpa.^[4] Most refugees in Betsiriry were of Merina origin, particularly from Vonizongo, Marovatana, and Vakinankaratra areas disproportionately affected by the policies of Queen Ranavalona I or by the unrest following the assassination of Radama II.^[5]

Other groups, including Sakalava, Betsileo, Bara, and African or Malagasy slaves, also sought refuge in Betsiriry to escape conflicts in their original homelands.^[5] Betsiriry remained autonomous from surrounding monarchies.^[4][5]

By the late 19th century, the Bemihimpa were known as bandits called Fahavalos ^[6] who raided Imerina and Betsileo territories. The Bemihimpa leaders of these bands allied themselves with Toera,^[6][4] especially Mahatanty,^[6] in resisting French colonial troops. Eventually, the Bemihimpa leaders submitted to the French, and Betsiriry was occupied by French forces, with Mahatanty fleeing the region.^[1]

• Valalafotsy, Land of Vazimba refugees
• Marofotsy, Malagasy tribe of Vazimba, Sakalava, Sihanaka and Merina origins