CARE International’s history in Madagascar
CARE has been working in Madagascar since 1992, initially responding to cyclones along the eastern coast.
What began as emergency assistance has grown into long-term work supporting communities facing poverty, climate-related crises, and inequality. Today, CARE works across multiple regions, partnering with communities and local organizations to strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods.
CARE and partners’ work in Madagascar today
CARE works with communities and local partners across Madagascar to respond to crises, strengthen livelihoods, and support long-term resilience.
We focus on:
Crisis response
Madagascar is highly vulnerable to cyclones, droughts, floods, and other climate-related crises. CARE and our partners provide emergency aid, including cash support and essential supplies, while also supporting communities to better prepare for future disasters through early warning systems and local disaster planning.
We also support women’s leadership in emergencies, ensuring women play an active role in response and recovery efforts.
Food and water
CARE and our partners support families to improve food security and nutrition through sustainable agriculture and community-based approaches. This includes Farmer Field and Business Schools, which help farmers improve agricultural practices and increase productivity.
Programs also improve access to and promote safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. We also help communities and governments manage supply systems, ensuring services are effective and sustainable in the long term.
Making the economy work for women
CARE supports women and communities to improve their livelihoods through savings groups, small-business support, and access to markets.
Through approaches such as Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), women can save money, access small loans, and invest in income-generating activities. These initiatives help families increase their income and build more stable economic opportunities.
Climate
Madagascar is one of the countries most affected by climate change.
CARE and our partners work with communities to adapt to changing conditions through climate-smart agriculture and natural resource management. We also help communities develop and lead their own strategies of adaptation - the locally-led resilience approaches.
Several programs help us achieve these goals, including:
- MIRAIKA: focuses on food security and agricultural resilience
- MIARE: integrates agriculture, nutrition, and livelihoods
- KILONGA: supports sustainable water access and WASH systems
- MAP Insuresilience: strengthens climate risk financing and resilience
Focus on women and girls
Women and girls are at the centre of CARE’s work in Madagascar.
We support women’s economic empowerment through savings groups, entrepreneurship, and livelihood programs. These initiatives help women increase their income and strengthen their role within households and communities.
CARE also works with communities to address harmful social norms and promote more equal decision-making. Through approaches such as Social Analysis and Action, we engage both women and men to support lasting change.
In addition, CARE supports women’s leadership at the community level, including emergency response and local governance.
By strengthening women’s economic opportunities, voice, and leadership, entire communities can improve their well-being across Madagascar.
For recent updates on CARE Madagascar’s work, see here.
