In Madagascar, one sector stands as a beacon of hope for employment and stability—family farming. In collaboration with Radio Don Bosco and Radio Nationaly Malagasy, Réseau SOA (Syndicat des Organisations Agricoles) and Plateforme Nationale Femme, Développement Durable et Sécurité Alimentaire (PNFDDSA) have produced an insightful radio program, in Malagasy (a Madagascar local language), highlighting the crucial role of family farming in Madagascar.
With over 400,000 young people entering the workforce annually, the pressure to create jobs is immense. While the spotlight often shines on urban unemployment crises, a silent workforce quietly builds the foundation of Madagascar’s future: family farms. Often overlooked, these agricultural enterprises are the country’s largest employers, providing a steady income stream for millions, including a growing number of young people.
In rural communities, family farms are not just places of work; they are centers of learning and tradition. Young people inherit not only the land but also the knowledge and skills passed down through generations. This knowledge transfer is crucial for maintaining agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in Madagascar.
As Madagascar looks towards the future, it is clear that family farming will continue to be a cornerstone of rural life and a major source of employment for young people. By supporting and strengthening family farms, the country can create a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector capable of withstanding economic shocks and ensuring food security.
However, this potential is often untapped. The division of labour within farms highlights an often-overlooked reality: women are key players. Tasks like rice transplanting, vital to the success of modern farming techniques like the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), are primarily handled by women. Yet, many agricultural training programs fail to recognize this, hindering progress and limiting the potential of family farms.
To fully harness the potential of family farms, it’s essential to address gender disparities and tailor support programs accordingly. By empowering young people, particularly women, and providing them with the necessary skills and resources, we can transform family farms into engines of economic growth and development.
It’s time to recognize the invaluable contribution of family farms to Madagascar’s economy and society. By investing in this sector, we invest in the nation’s future.
Listen to the Radio Programme
Radio Don Bosco
Radio Nationaly Malagasy
Access all Madagascar’s Productions here (Synopsis are in French):
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YenKasa Africa Radio Initiative