Expanding horizons and opportunities

The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) encourages the membership of Malagasy cooperatives. This announcement was made by the Minister of Industrialization and Commerce, Edgard Razafindravahy, during the opening of the International Day of Cooperatives.

Ensuring the preservation of interests and improving community conditions are the main objectives of a cooperative. In his opening speech, Mr. Edgard Razafindravahy emphasized the importance of Malagasy cooperatives becoming members of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). The goal is to broaden horizons and opportunities. Through this membership, local cooperatives will gain experience and access to international markets.

There are over 3,700 cooperatives in Madagascar, with more than 74,000 members. Before being admitted to the ICA, several steps must be followed. Cooperatives need to be grouped into unions, and then into federations. The confederation of cooperatives will then be formed by these federations. This confederation will represent all Malagasy cooperatives within the ICA.

Participation in the ICA aligns precisely with the objectives of the cooperative societies law. The Minister also called on technical and financial partners to continue supporting and strengthening the capacities of cooperatives.