Since 2023, AIC Madagascar has been implementing a social and educational support programme in the South-East region, one of the poorest in Madagascar. In some remote rural areas, more than 85% of the population lives below the poverty line. Families have to cope with the consequences of rising living costs, cyclones, repeated droughts and the destruction of food crops.
To address this alarming situation, AIC Madagascar, in partnership with AIC Solidarité, has set up a project aimed at improving the long-term living conditions of vulnerable mothers and children experiencing poverty.
Holistic support
The project was established in 2023 in south-eastern Madagascar, mainly in Manakara. The comprehensive programme combines education, vocational training, access to housing and agricultural support.
Since the launch of the programme, activities have gradually expanded to meet the urgent needs of 10 homeless families, single or divorced mothers, widows and orphaned children in the region.
Home visits to families benefiting from housing and land
Adapting to needs in the field
AIC volunteers are actively involved in the programme, providing daily support and guidance to beneficiaries.
Concrete results include:
- 10 families have been provided with housing and land.
- 43 mothers have successfully completed a literacy training course (reading, writing and arithmetic). A third cohort with 22 participants is currently underway.
- A significant number of children have been enrolled in school. The children have also received school supplies.
- 34 young people, former university students and people who dropped out of school, have successfully completed vocational training in IT, driving and other skills-based courses.
Dozens of families directly benefit from the programme, as well as a growing number of children and young people every year.
A lasting impact
AIC’s approach is based on empowerment and dignity.
👉 For mothers, literacy is a first step towards independence. It enables them to better manage their daily life, follow their children’s schooling and develop income-generating activities. Having land and farming tools also gives them the opportunity to grow crops and combat food insecurity.
“Before, I couldn’t read or write. Now, I can help my children with their homework and manage our small farming business. I feel stronger and more confident,” says one beneficiary mother.
👉 For children, access to education and school supplies paves the way for a more stable future. Promoting children’s rights is a cornerstone of all activities.
👉 For young people, vocational training makes it easier to find work. Several beneficiaries have already obtained diplomas in paramedic care, economics or social sciences, while others are continuing their university studies.
A young student trained in IT shares: “Thanks to the training, I have gained skills that will allow me to find a job after my studies. It has completely changed how I see the future.”
Literacy classes for women and carpentry classes for young people
Going beyond material support
In a region affected by climate disasters and chronic poverty, the project is not limited to one-time assistance. It offers long-term solutions.
What makes the project unique is its holistic approach. Housing, education, training, social and moral support are combined to strengthen the families’ overall living conditions. Volunteers play a central role by offering physical, moral, spiritual and psychological support.
Beyond material support, the project helps restore hope and self-confidence among beneficiaries.
A volunteer from the association explains: “We do not just help. Every day, we also receive so much in return through the smiles and progress of the families. That gives us the strength to keep on going.”
Submitted by: Hery Ravelojaona
Source: https://www.aic-international.org/
Beneficiaries’ new homes and classroom for training courses (right)
AIC Madasgar is providing holistic support for women and children ans addressing the drivers of poverty to achieve Systematic Change. Such a Vincentian model!