The transformative journey of Rabarison Alfred

In the Zanatany System, farmers in Madagascar have found an important tool for combatting hunger and ensuring food self-sufficiency. Indeed, the application of the Zanatany System, which promotes sustainable farming practices, is enabling farmers to enhance their rice production and improve food security.

Meet Rabarison Alfred – a 51-year-old farmer from the Itasy. Rabarison is a member of a Community Based Savings Group (CBSG) established by the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) in 2019. Through the CBSG, Rabarison has benefitted in more ways than one. Indeed, it is through the CBSG that Rabarison learned about the Zanatany System of rice cultivation – a system he eagerly embraced following the training he received. Intrigued by its potential, Rabarison wasted no time in putting his newfound knowledge to the test on his modest four-acre plot. The results were astonishing.

After the first harvest, Rabarison witnessed a doubling of his yields compared to the conventional rice cultivation methods he had previously used. Encouraged by the initial results, Rabarison applied the Zanatany System to additional plots, totalling 18 acres by 2020. The bountiful harvests continued, propelling him to further scale up his operation to an impressive 27 acres between 2021 and 2022. Rabarison’s enthusiasm is palpable as he eagerly anticipates extending the Zanatany System to the remaining nine acres of his land, despite occasional flooding challenges.

The impact of this transition on Rabarison’s livelihood has been transformative. Prior to 2019, Rabarison’s total rice production across the 36-acre plot stood at a modest 1,100 kg. However, with the adoption of Zanatany System that figure almost doubled to 2,000 kg – on just 27 acres. The abundant harvests now guarantee food security for Rabarison and his family throughout the year – a contrast to previous years where his rice yields would saw his family through eight months of the year only.

Rabarison’s journey embodies the power of embracing innovative agricultural techniques. The Zanatany System, coupled with Rabarison’s hard work, has generated tangible benefits in the form of increased yields, enhanced food security, and newfound entrepreneurial opportunities. As his farming flourishes, Rabarison reminds us of the transformative potential that lies within the hands of those who embrace change.