National companies commit over USD 25 million to end hunger in Madagascar
Three companies from Madagascar - MAD'AROM, Phael Flor Export, and Sahanala – have signaled their commitment to ending hunger in the country by joining the Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge. With their pledges, these companies will support farmers in the implementation of sustainable practices and adoption climate-resilient crops.
These latest pledges result from a recent mission, organised by the Zero Hunger Coalition, during which the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock brought stakeholders together with the aim of finalising the country’s Action Plan for Food Systems Transformation. During the mission, the representative from the Zero Hunger Pledge strengthened the Pledge’s network with the local private sector by highlighting the value of the Pledge to both businesses and the communities that they serve.
With their new commitments, these companies are also showcasing their support for the country’s transformation towards sustainable agriculture and food systems.
The Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge is proud to announce the addition of:
MAD'AROM produces and exports essential oils derived from local spices and aromatic plants. The company collaborates with over 2,000 small-scale producers, promoting sustainable agroforestry practices and supporting local agriculture.
MAD'AROM has committed USD 20,000 to agricultural interventions and innovations aimed at supporting sustainable practices. This includes training farmers in sustainable techniques, promoting the adoption of climate-resilient crops, and implementing post-harvest processing methods to enhance productivity and income. To put in place these interventions, the company will partner with the FAO, through its ‘Hand-in-Hand' Initiative, IFAD, and AGRA.
"Joining the Pledge enables MAD'AROM to promote sustainable agriculture while supporting vulnerable communities on a global scale. We joined the Pledge to amplify sustainable solutions for food security and empower smallholder farmers through innovative practices," said Hasina Henintsoa Andriatsitohaina, Founder and CEO of MAD’AROM.
Phael Flor Export manufactures cosmetics and aromas based on the natural extracts of aromatic plants and spices. It operates two factories in Madagascar, sourcing its raw materials from local farmers using organic practices. The company is committed to sustainability and quality.
Partnering with GIZ, Phael Flor Export has pledged USD 674,000 to support farmer participation in organizations, provide vocational training for rural youth, expand social protection programmes, and promote sustainable agricultural practices and climate-resilient crops. The company’s pledge will also focus on reducing post-harvest losses and improving value chains for fruits, vegetables and other crops.
Sahanala is a social enterprise that produces spices, nuts, cereals and dried fruit covering over 600,000 hectares across ten regions in Madagascar and involving more than 7,500 farmers in four federations. The company provides farmers with the necessary tools for responsible farming and thus obtaining quality products.
Sahanala has committed USD 25,000,000 to develop key agricultural value chains, including maize, rice, soy, peanuts and fisheries, with a sustainable approach and prioritising climate-resilient crops and the reduction of post-harvest losses.
As part of its pledge, it commits to provide training and resources to farmers and support them in forming formal organisations such as cooperatives and federations to better access international markets. The company also plans to invest in infrastructure and technical assistance for SMEs in the value chain. This approach aims at strengthening local economies and boosting the livelihoods of Malagasy producers.
The Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge will continue to engage with other companies in Madagascar and explore their participation in the initiative. By fostering partnerships and expanding its network, the Pledge aims to further its mission of involving the private sector in the global commitment to end hunger.