The SAVA region, in northeastern Madagascar, has just taken a major step in its agricultural transformation with the announcement of the installation of a fertilizer production plant in Andapa. This project, led by the Malagasy government through the Secretariat of State for Food Sovereignty, is part of a national strategy aimed at strengthening food security and modernizing local agriculture.

Plant Capacity and Objectives

The plant will have a production capacity of 20,000 tons of fertilizer per year. This infrastructure, which complies with technical and environmental standards, aims to meet the growing input needs of local farmers.

The stated objective is to increase agricultural productivity through:

• Better access to fertilizers
• Quality seeds
• Improved irrigation infrastructure

A direct impact on agricultural productivity

The Andapa region has strategic potential to improve agricultural yields. Improved access to fertilizers should significantly increase productivity, particularly in rice cultivation, a key food crop in Madagascar. For example, hybrid rice seed production projects in the region target yields of up to 8 tons per hectare, compared to a national average of often less than 3 tons.

Energy Support and Additional Infrastructure

To ensure optimal operation of the plant, a hydraulic site has been identified to supply the facility with electricity. This infrastructure will ensure continuous and environmentally friendly production. This energy component is crucial to the project’s viability and is part of a sustainable development approach.

Key Figures and National Ambitions

• Plant capacity: 20,000 tons of fertilizer/year
• Rice yield target: up to 8 tons/ha with hybrid seeds
• Rural population affected: 80% of the Malagasy population lives in rural areas
• Area dedicated to hybrid rice seed production: 100 hectares identified, including 50 hectares for the first phase

International Cooperation and Technology Transfer

This project is part of a strategic technical cooperation with China. Beijing is supporting Madagascar in introducing modern agricultural technologies and improving local capacity. Chinese experts are collaborating with Malagasy technicians to ensure the success of agricultural transformation and the empowerment of local producers.

Towards Food Sovereignty

The installation of this fertilizer plant in Andapa marks a concrete step towards Madagascar’s food sovereignty. By reducing dependence on imported inputs and promoting local resources, the country is acquiring essential tools to guarantee its population sustainable access to quality food, while also supporting the economic development of rural areas.

A Structural Project for Food Sovereignty

The Andapa fertilizer production plant is an emblematic project of Madagascar’s new agricultural dynamic. It illustrates the government’s commitment to modernizing the sector, improving yields, and strengthening the resilience of rural communities in the face of growing food and demographic challenges.

This project, supported by international partnerships, could serve as a model for other regions of the country seeking autonomy and sustainable development.