Promote Bamboo Industry Development to Achieve Green Growth and Poverty Reduction in Madagascar

Madagascar, the largest island nation in the Indian Ocean, is a globally significant biodiversity hotspot facing severe environmental and socio-economic challenges. The country is highly vulnerable to climate change and remains one of the world’s least developed nations, with a per capita gross national income of USD 528 and a Human Development Index ranking of 177th out of 193 countries. More than 70% of the population lives below the national poverty line, with rural communities particularly affected. Agriculture and forestry are the primary sources of livelihoods, providing income, employment, and essential resources.

The country also experiences one of the highest rates of deforestation and land degradation globally. Forest cover has declined to about 21% of the land area, and nearly 45% of primary forests have been lost over the past six decades. Key drivers include demand for fuelwood, charcoal, construction timber, agricultural expansion, population growth, and economic development pressures. These factors contribute to poverty, biodiversity loss, declining land productivity, and increased vulnerability to climate-related disasters.

In addition, Madagascar generates around 300,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually, with over 90% improperly disposed of due to inadequate waste management systems. Limited policy implementation and resource constraints highlight the urgent need for affordable, sustainable, and locally driven solutions to address environmental degradation and plastic pollution.

The project will directly support 3,000 beneficiaries (including 1,000 women) and benefit 50,000 indirect beneficiaries.

Donors