Malagasy units of measurement explained

A number of units of measurement were used in Madagascar to measure length, mass, capacity, etc. The Metric system was introduced in Madagascar in 1897.^[1]

System before metric system

Several units were used.

Length

One rahf was equal to 46.46 in (1.18 m) (the value was double in the northern part of Madagascar).^[2]

Mass

For gold and silver

Units included:

1 vari = 3 nanki

1 sompi = 2 vari = 60 grain.^[2]

Capacity

One bambou was equal to 0.0568 bushel.^[2]

Notes and References

1. Book: Cardarelli, F.. Encyclopaedia of Scientific Units, Weights and Measures. Their SI Equivalences and Origins.. Springer. 2003. 978-1-4471-1122-1. London. 7.
2. Book: Clarke, F.W.. Weights Measures and Money of All Nations. D. Appleton & Company . 1891. New York. 50.