Madagascar is one of the world’s original melting pots. It was inhabited over 5,000 years ago by groups from Indonesia, mainland Africa, India and the Arabic world.

There are 18 main ethnic groups, two of which Nourish Madagascar works with in the Alaotra Region: the Sihanaka, and the Antandroy.

The economy is primarily focused on tourism, spices, fishing and mineral extraction.

The world’s 4th largest island, and home to it’s famous lemurs. Madagascar has incredible biological diversity. Over 90% of the plants and animals on the island are found nowhere else on earth.

Despite it’s natural beauty and resources, it’s one of the poorest countries on earth, with 92% of it’s people living on $2 a day or less.

The poverty rate remains above 75% and is higher in rural areas where we work. 

The areas where we partner do not have access to clean water and electricity, and transportation is difficult. This increases the barriers to sustained economic development.