The non-refundable donation aims to bolster food security and will be sold locally to fund development projects.
Japan has provided Madagascar with a non-refundable donation of rice valued at 7.9 billion ariary, equivalent to 300 million Japanese yen. This assistance, part of the 2026 Food Assistance Program, was formalized through an agreement signed on September 4th. The signing ceremony was attended by the Japanese Ambassador to Madagascar, Tojima Hitoshi, and the Malagasy Minister of Foreign Affairs, N'Diaye Alice, alongside other government officials.
This contribution targets the reinforcement of food security in a nation where approximately 80% of the population relies on agriculture. The program addresses the vulnerability of agricultural production, exacerbated by recurrent droughts in the Grand South and cyclones and floods in eastern regions. Chronic malnutrition, affecting nearly half of children under five, remains a significant concern.
The donated rice, a staple food, will not be distributed freely but will be sold by the Malagasy government at a reasonable price. Proceeds will be channeled into "Counterpart Funds" to finance socio-economic development projects, in collaboration with Japan. This mechanism has previously supported initiatives aimed at enhancing food security, agricultural resilience, and living conditions.
Why it mattersThe donation of rice and its subsequent sale will impact the availability and price of a staple food, while generated funds will support development projects.
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