Increasing rice production by 10 to 15 %
An ambitious program has been launched by Suzelin Ratohiarijaona, Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (Minae), aiming to renovate irrigation infrastructure to boost rice production. The country projects a rice yield of 5.6 million tons this year.
Over 100,000 hectares of irrigated areas will be renovated this year, with 30,000 hectares targeted within the first 100 days. Evaluating his department’s performance, the minister aims to increase rice production by 10 to 15 %, striving for self-sufficiency and the elimination of rice imports. He stated, «This initiative aims to reduce spending on import-related devices and strengthen the country’s food security ».
Minae’s measures align with the General State Policy (PGE), specifically the second pillar supporting the industrialization and transformation of Madagascar’s economy. The goal is to achieve food security by 2028. So far, 63 projects have been completed in 16 zones, covering an area of 30,900 hectares of newly irrigated land.
Additionally, a new species of rain-fed rice called « Mavitrika » has been introduced. It is climate-resistant and enriched with zinc to combat malnutrition. Support for seed institutions is being strengthened through the training of 20 new seed inspectors and the distribution of over 230 motorized agricultural equipment. In the coming years, Minae plans to develop 100,000 hectares of Agricultural Emergence Zones in collaboration with the private sector by 2028.