Spanish photographer Luis Tato wins prime prize for Madagascar protest protection

Issued on: 06/09/2026 – 19:24

1 min Reading time

Tato received the Visa d’Or prize for information pictures for his protection of Generation Z protests in Madagascar.

His work on the story had already been recognised on the World Press Photo Awards in April.

Accepting the award, 37-year-old Tato paid tribute to pageant founder Jean-Francois Leroy, who died on Monday.

Leroy, he stated, had given him an early break in 2018 when he confirmed his work for the primary time.

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Tato additionally acknowledged the younger folks of Madagascar, who “knew how important it was that their story be told”.

In September 2025, student-led protests erupted throughout Madagascar over failing public providers, corruption, and financial hardship. When President Andry Rajoelina dissolved his authorities however refused to resign, demonstrations intensified.

“I think this global movement of young people who are trying to redefine democracy and transform their societies is a very interesting dynamic, which fascinates me both as a photographer and as someone who seeks to understand the world we live in,” stated Tato.

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Based in Kenya, Tato covers east Africa and the Indian Ocean area for French information company AFP.

His work has already been recognised in a number of pictures competitions, together with 3 times on the World Press Photo awards; on the Pictures of the Year International, Sony World Photography Awards and NPPA Best of Photojournalism.

(with AFP)

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► Visa pour l’Image runs from 29 August to 13 September, 2026.