Favini confirms its environmental commitment through the partnership, started in 2009, with Voiala-Madagascar association.

Voiala project, which aims to protect and support rural development in Madagascar, also includes actions to improve socio-economic conditions for the local population.

Thanks to the information that we receive from the island, we have the opportunity to take a look at the current situation in Madagascar and to discover the new projects.

Madagascar and the region of Haute Matsiatra

The Malgascy economic and cultural situation present differing problems.

The most rural areas of the island, where almost 80% of the population live, are in poverty: People and communities suffer with ill health combined with a lack of food and education.

Haute Matsiatra, a central region of Madagascar, consists of 96% of rural area and is where there is much illiteracy and health problems. Voiala project focuses its efforts in this region.

New projects

In addition to projects aimed at protecting the natural environment, Voiala Association has undertaken further activities and Favini has decided to contribute.

These include a new project: its main purpose is the improvement of socio-economic and cultural conditions of the rural communities that live around the reforestation sites in Haute Matsiatra region.

To achieve the specific aim which is to educate and meet the basic needs of the population, the strategies adopted are based on a participatory approach, to promote integration of different social classes within the community.

Medium-term plan (2016-2018)

This additional project will last for three years between 2016 and 2018.

In 2016 there was the important phase of identification of needs and feasibility studies through consulting members of the community.

In 2017-2018, education and awareness campaigns are planned and will involve members of the community to participate in the activities and to create the infrastructure needed.

Actions taken

Educating and making local communities receptive is a critical step to improve their socio-economic conditions.

With the help of Voiala, locals have founded associations for the collective management of reforestation sites, and for the construction project planned for local schools, in order to provide the children with primary education.

In addition to these activities, with the support of Favini and Voiala, several new projects are being implemented and are to be completed by the end of 2018.

These projects include the construction of infrastructure including the creation of sanitary facilities, the construction of a warehouse for grain and the creation of an orchard.

For more information on the project, visit the website page dedicated to Voiala: http://www.favini.com/ambiente/voiala/progetto-voiala/