Local Skills Development at the Heart of Strategic Support

On April 16, 2025, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) presented the results of its actions supporting crafts in Madagascar during a meeting with the Minister of Tourism and Crafts, Viviane Dewa.

Dr. Edward Christow, UNDP Representative in Madagascar, detailed several projects aimed at supporting women, particularly young mothers, through training, professional integration, and small business creation.

These initiatives provide more opportunities for women while supporting the local economy and promoting traditional skills. The organization also works to facilitate market access for local products, thus contributing to their development.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss sustainable tourism, a key sector for Madagascar. The “One Tourism, One Tree” project, led by the Ministry, particularly attracted attention. This program involves planting trees in tourist areas, restoring the environment while ensuring a supply of natural resources for local products. This project combines ecosystem preservation with economic benefits for communities.

The Minister and the UNDP Representative also explored avenues of collaboration to improve governance of the tourism sector and strengthen the country’s international promotion. Both parties emphasized the importance of working with the private sector to support economic growth.