On December 19, 2024, a major milestone was reached in the advancement of agroecology and sustainable food system transformation in Madagascar with the official launch of the Global Programme for Small-Scale Agroecological Producers and Sustainable Food System Transformation (GP-SAEP). The event, co-organized by the NGO Action Intercoopération Madagascar (AIM) and the Agricultural Advisory Forum (FCA), took place at Hôtel Panorama in Antananarivo.
Context and Objectives of the GP-SAEP Programme
Supported by the European Union, the Belgian Cooperation, and IFAD, the GP-SAEP programme adopts a global approach to overcoming the challenges that hinder the agroecological transition. It aims to transform food systems to be both sustainable and inclusive, placing a strong emphasis on small-scale producers, agri-food micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and vulnerable rural communities.
The GP-SAEP directly addresses several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
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SDG 1 : No poverty
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SDG 2 : Zero hunger
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SDG 13 : Climate action
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SDG 12 : Responsible consumption and production
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SDG 15 : Life on land
In Madagascar, where food security and environmental sustainability remain critical issues, the programme targets the Menabe and Melaky regions and is built on four strategic components:
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Improved access to agroecological inputs, including seeds, bio-inputs, and innovative technologies.
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Value addition and market access for agroecological products.
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Strengthening rural advisory services (RAS) and peer learning among farmers transitioning to agroecology.
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Development of economic analysis tools and knowledge management.
AIM is in charge of Components 1 and 2, while FCA leads Component 3. The respective implementation timelines run until August 2026 and June 2026.
Objectives of the Launch Workshop
This workshop aimed to:
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Foster stakeholder engagement through a shared vision and common understanding of the programme’s objectives.
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Inform and mobilize key actors around planned activities, particularly in the targeted regions.
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Promote dialogue on the challenges of agroecology and sustainable food transitions.
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Enhance the visibility and coordination of actions within the GP-SAEP framework.
Key outcomes included:
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A shared understanding of the programme’s strategies and approaches.
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Collection of recommendations from partners.
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Strengthened advocacy for agroecology.
Workshop Highlights
The day featured a range of activities — presentations, interactive discussions, and exhibitions — involving institutional stakeholders, international organizations, and key local actors. Highlights included:
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Opening speeches and an overview of Madagascar’s agroecological context
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Exhibition and presentation stands by stakeholders and media
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Detailed presentation of the GP-SAEP components by AIM and FCA
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A Q&A session and the official programme launch.
List of Participants
The event brought together key representatives, including:
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Government authorities such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and regional directors, along with representatives from Menabe and Melaky regions
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Technical and financial partners, notably IFAD
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Agroecological and research organizations such as GSDM, CIRAD, FOFIFA, and SOC
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Other development programs and organizations : FAO, AD2M, AFAFI Centre, PROGRES Project, GIZ, …
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Producer networks and local initiatives, including Tranoben’ny Tantsaha, Réseau Soa, Union des Coopératives Bemiray Miandrivazo, TAFITA Mahabo Association, and FITAME Menabe Association
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Programme partners and implementers: AIM, CTAS, GFRAAS, AFAAS, FCA, Access Agriculture, YPARD
Looking Ahead
The launch workshop of the GP-SAEP programme served as a unique opportunity to align visions and efforts among all stakeholders committed to promoting agroecology and a sustainable food transition in Madagascar. This ambitious collaboration lays the foundation for a future where rural communities gain better access to durable tools and solutions, ensuring greater food security and strengthened resilience to climate and economic challenges.