Holistically Alleviating Poverty in Madagascar

Communities in southeast Madagascar are under increasing pressure from climate shocks, environmental degradation, and unpredictable foreign aid. The unprecedented dry spell in late 2024 stands out as a stark example of the challenges being faced, with crop failures worsening already critical levels of food insecurity. Simultaneously, traditional slash-and-burn farming, locally known as tavy, continues to fuel deforestation, degrade fragile soils, and increase wildlife risks.

In response, SEED launched an agroforestry pilot project next to Tsagnoriha Primary School in March 2025. Agroforestry offers a sustainable approach that combines the benefits of agriculture and forestry, and has proven effective in restoring degraded soils and improving water retention. With approximately 3,000 m², the site aims to strengthen food security by ensuring a consistent, year-round harvest that supports schoolchildren’s nutrition. Alongside this, the project seeks to promote sustainable farming practices and build resilience to climate change.

Since its launch, the site has achieved notable progress, with 40 planting beds now thriving with a wide range of crops, and Moringa oleifera and fruit tree seedlings taking root. The first harvest in June saw a total of 61 kilograms of courgettes, cucumbers, and radishes harvested, with the vegetables prepared and cooked by a group of parents for the schoolchildren.

This initiative has become a collective effort involving community members, teachers, and students. This demonstrates a shared commitment to restoring the land and securing livelihoods in a challenging climate context. SEED has also delivered training sessions, equipping project participants with essential skills in land preparation and maintenance, organic pest control, harvesting, composting and waste management, and nutritional food preparation. By strengthening local knowledge and capacity, these efforts aim to promote the wider adoption of sustainable practices throughout the community.

Thank you for being part of this journey, helping communities in southeast Madagascar to build resilience to climate change and improve nutrition for schoolchildren. With further funding, SEED can expand on this agroforestry initiative, ensuring continued food security and sustainable livelihoods for the future.