One more step towards food sovereignty

SANOI closed on 12 February 2025 and has played a key role in transforming agri-food systems in the region. This includes strengthening food security and resilience to the challenges of climate change.

The European Union-supported regional SANOI program, spearheaded by the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), has ended after five years of engagement. This project has strengthened Member States’ agri-food systems by focusing on food quality, farm resilience and nutritional diversification.

One of its main successes is the strengthening of health control laboratories, guaranteeing the quality of food products. The initiative has also created short marketing channels, which facilitate access to local products. In addition, information platforms have been set up, allowing more effective management of food safety data.

SANOI has also conducted awareness-raising activities, particularly with women and adolescent girls, 40,000 of whom have been trained. Campaigns have focused on breastfeeding, food hygiene, and diversifying diets. The project trained 200 technicians, strengthening the analytical capabilities of laboratories in the region.

The impact of the project was also measured on the ground. Nearly 40,000 smallholder farmers received direct support. Of these, 60% were women. These farmers had access to climate-smart seeds. Moreover, agroecological techniques have enabled significantly increased agricultural yields. Malagasy farmers have brought in much more production.

At the closing ceremony, the importance of maintaining the momentum of the program was underlined. Partners stress the need to continue efforts for a resilient and sustainable food system in the Indian Ocean.