Spanish photographer Luis Tato wins top prize for Madagascar protest coverage

Tato won the Visa d'Or prize for news photography for his coverage of Generation Z protests in Madagascar.

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

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

Leroy, he said, had given him an early break in 2018 when he showed his work for the first time.

France's international photojournalism festival founder Leroy dies aged 69

Tato also acknowledged the young people of Madagascar, who "knew how important it was that their story be told".

In September 2025, student-led protests erupted across Madagascar over failing public services, corruption, and economic hardship. When President Andry Rajoelina dissolved his government but 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," said Tato.

AI challenges trust in photography as Visa pour l'Image festival opens

Based in Kenya, Tato covers east Africa and the Indian Ocean region for French news agency AFP.

His work has already been recognised in several photography competitions, including three times at the World Press Photo awards; at the Pictures of the Year International, Sony World Photography Awards and NPPA Best of Photojournalism.

(with AFP)