National Route 5a bears the national designation merely in title. Describing the stretch that links Ambilobe in the northwest to Vohémar in the northeast would be an account of a 160 km pathway aptly coined as 'the track from hell.' Particularly challenging during the rainy months of January and February, this route transforms into a daunting obstacle course. What is typically a two to three-day journey can easily extend to more than 15 days, featuring ruts, mud pools, and sections too narrow for simultaneous passage of two trucks – a factor rendering it impractical for buses.

Despite its arduous nature, RN 5 is the sole conduit to the vanilla coast along the Indian Ocean's edge. A considerable drawback for the entire Northern region, a key economic hub in the country, as the road's subpar condition hampers the transportation of vanilla and various minerals abundant in the area. The predicament with RN 5 arises from neglect in maintenance, with the road deteriorating progressively. This vital economic axis appears forgotten by the state, further compounded by the wear inflicted by large cargo vehicles, resulting in potholes and numerous deviations. The deplorable state of the road profoundly impacts life in the region; for instance, farmers resort to using dhows (boats) to transport their produce to ensure sales in the capital.

Directors: Daniel Lainé, David Geoffrion