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Publié le : 01-06-2025
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Type : Projet
Since 2019, the Mahavotra project, implemented as part of the AGRITER* program, has developed actions in Madagascar focusing on the professionalization of family farms and agroecological transition in the Itasy region. Its 3rd and final phase (2024-2026) aims to consolidate and perpetuate these actions.
The Agence française de développement (AFD), co-financier of the AGRITER program, recently paid a visit to observe the agro-ecological transition underway, the progress of the Mahavotra project and its impact on agriculture in Itasy.
Convincing results and committed stakeholders
Deployed in 17 communes in the Itasy region, the Mahavotra project aims to strengthen the economic and social dynamics driven by local players, in favor of sustainable family farming. It operates at various levels, from plot level to regional planning.
During the visit, AFD representatives Na'akin Pintado, Project Manager in the CSO Partnerships Division (France), and Jérôme Dupuis, Project Manager for CSO Partnerships in the Indian Ocean Regional Office, were able to see for themselves the project's impact on agricultural production.
They first visited the “Besofina” site, which illustrates the implementation of the Manazary commune development plan. Discussions with the mayor shed light on the entire process, from conception to implementation, and the role of each individual. Several farmers testified to the positive effects:
« Our rice fields are located on the plain of the watershed. Before the project, they were invaded by sand, which reduced the area available for cultivation. Thanks to the development work carried out over the past 2 years, we are now able to use all of our land, which has increased our production and income. »
The delegation was also able to meet with Masters Farmers, local service providers. This farmer network of 405 male and female farmers, trained in collaboration with the Regional Agricultural Training Center, provides essential agricultural services such as training, production and sale of agricultural inputs, technical advice, etc. to farms in the region, particularly in isolated areas.
This represents 4,500 affiliated farmers who have strengthened the sustainability of their production systems, whether in lowland rice-growing, fruit arboriculture, forestry, market gardening or animal husbandry. Some of them have reported positive results in terms of changes in their practices:
« Before joining the Maîtres-Exploitants scheme, we used to farm in the traditional way, with mediocre results. Thanks to the training we received, particularly in agro-ecology, we have improved our production techniques and seen a clear increase in our yields.»
At the end of the visit, AFD staff welcomed the adoption of agroecological practices by family farms, and the improvement in yields. The territorial approach adopted with partners, the involvement of community relays and the effective implementation of the communal development plan were seen as guarantees of sustainability.
However, they also stressed the importance of a more concrete commitment from the national authorities to the agricultural sector, in order to support these dynamics.
*Sustainable agriculture and regional dynamics
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Some key informations about the Mahavotra project:
- 7 communal development schemes implemented
- 2,400 ha of land developed: forestry, adapted development of agricultural land,
- erosion control.
- 11 professional organizations supported
- 7 sectors strengthened
- 7 agricultural training establishments strengthened
