UN agencies partner on Madagascar community infrastructure project

The World Food Programme and International Labour Organization signed a memorandum of understanding to help vulnerable households in six Madagascar regions produce more food, withstand future shocks, and achieve self-sufficiency, according to a WFP press-release.

The partnership targets communities in Analamanga, Androy, Atsimo Andrefana, Fitovinany, Vakinankaratra, and Vatovavy regions where nearly three out of four people live in poverty and food insecurity remains widespread. The collaboration aims to develop community infrastructure that improves livelihoods while creating fair and safe jobs that build useful skills.

Madagascar’s rural communities struggle with post-harvest losses and limited access to water for farming, hampering food production and economic opportunities. The partnership will support households and farmers’ organizations with small-scale food processing and preservation facilities including mills, drying units, and warehouses to store harvests and reduce waste. Both organizations will also work together to rehabilitate and expand farmlands, giving farmers more reliable water access for rice, maize, and vegetable production.

ILO Country Director Frederick Muia emphasized the commitment goes beyond good intentions. “Today we are not just signing a statement of intent, but a commitment that no one will be left behind,” he said.

The partnership focuses on three priorities: creating meaningful jobs with skills development, implementing international labor standards with special attention to women and youth inclusion, and achieving measurable results through monitoring and adaptation.

WFP Representative Tania Goossens highlighted their shared commitment to sustainable livelihood improvements.

“Together we are helping the most vulnerable communities boost productivity and strengthen their resilience to shocks,” she said.

All community assets will be built by locally recruited workers, ensuring income stays within villages and strengthens local economies throughout the six targeted regions.