But in some rural parts of Madagascar, there is an age-old belief that twins are a curse, and raising them brings misfortune or even death to families.

Among the Antambahoaka people from the southeast African island, women who give birth to twins must abandon either one or both of their twins or face being ostracized by the community.

Authorities held talks with local leaders, children and parents, and even announced tough legislation to reinforce the protection of twins.

A local soothsayer, Norbert, told SBS Dateline that one of the dead kings of the Antambahoaka people cursed the land after the difficulties he went through taking care of twins.

Personally, as father and as guardian of traditions, I don’t need twins and I am ready to evict the members of my family who try to keep twins or try to take care of twins,” André added.