A $150 million program launched today aims to help nearly 5 million small-scale farmers in Madagascar adapt to climate change and improve their food security. The six-year Inclusive Agricultural Value Chains Programme (DEFIS+) will work across six regions in southern and central Madagascar to strengthen farming systems and help farmers get better access to markets.
The Green Climate Fund is putting in $53.8 million through grants and loans, with the International Fund for Agricultural Development adding another $97 million. The money will go toward helping farms, infrastructure, and natural systems better handle climate challenges.
Madagascar’s Agriculture Minister François Sergio Hajarison said climate resilience and agricultural transformation are now national priorities for the government. Max Andonirina Fontaine, the environment minister, noted that the project shows how fighting climate change can improve rural lives and support sustainable development.
Dr Euan Low from the Green Climate Fund said the program is part of growing efforts to help Madagascar build lasting climate resilience while lifting people out of poverty. Sara Mbago-Bhunu from IFAD added that the funding will help expand interventions and give smallholder farmers innovative tools for long-term resilience.
Madagascar’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, which makes up 23% of GDP, and 59% of the population lives in rural areas. The new program aims to help these communities better cope with climate challenges while strengthening the country’s food systems.
