Madagascar has an exponentially increasing population. Currently the number of people virtually doubles every 10 years. This population explosion has put immense pressure on society and environment. Estimates place the amount of land cleared in Madagascar as high as 90% but this figure is likely to be exaggerated. Little ‘intact’ forest remains and the amount of agricultural land available (especially productive virgin land) for further utilization is fast diminishing. New sustainable agriculture techniques are required to assure the people of Madagascar will be able to feed themselves into the future.

Vulnerable people in rural Madagascar are the most marginalised and impoverished and often do not have access to land, especially not their own. The land is usually unproductive and fallow. Soils require intensive ameliorative actions to restore nutrients and organic material in the soil profile leading to increased agricultural productivity. A grant from the Innocent Foundation has enabled vulnerable households to secure agricultural land and Ny Tanintsika Field Agents are teaching them sustainable agricultural techniques.

Ny Tanintsika beneficiaries mostly borrow land from family, neighbours or acquaintances. Continued access to land is insecure. Beneficiaries run the risk of other people claiming ownership of land and crops produced. As such, Ny Tanintsika is attempting to secure formal land tenure for these households, though it is proving a complex and arduous process. 

Most vulnerable households and people we have been fortunate to meet are very proud of their achievements. Having been given an opportunity to develop new skills and participate in the agroforestry and alternative livelihoods projects they are eager to demonstrate their success. It has been inspiring to meet with these people that have made so much from this limited opportunity.