The village of Ankilinanjosoa in Anosy has been severely affected by a series of droughts, resulting in failed harvests.
As a solution, a group of 25 women formed a grower’s association and gained access to water through a project supported by UNICEF. This not only aims to improve their resilience to droughts, but also allows them to have control over their finances.
Farmer Tenefo Votsirasoa, speaking before World Water Day, emphasizes the importance of water access for their crops. The association’s 500m2 garden grows various vegetables, including maize which requires a lot of water.
Previously, they had to purchase water from the river at a high cost of 500-1000 ariary per jerry can. However, with the irrigation system provided by UNICEF, they now have a reliable source of water. The association hopes to eventually purchase their own pump, which will save them money in the long run.
Tenefo Votsirasoa, a mother of eight, has also benefited from family planning information and no longer plans to have more children. Her daughters help out in the field after school, while her husband works in a different part of the country.
Thanks to the success of their crops, Tenefo is now able to provide for her family and even save money. The association, made up of women with limited opportunities, is not able to produce enough food for the entire village, but many villagers have the means to purchase food from the market.
The biggest change for Tenefo has been the independence she has gained through farming. She no longer has to rely on men for money and feels more equal in society. She also emphasizes the importance of working alongside men in separate associations.
With four successful harvests so far, Tenefo’s tip for a good crop is beans. For every 10 bags of seeds planted, they can harvest 100 bags of beans.
UN agencies, including UNICEF, work together in Madagascar to support communities like Ankilinanjosoa. Here are some examples of their work in the village: