The organisations that make up the SOA Network took an active part in the 25th edition of the International Rural Economy Fair or FIER MADA, which was held at Andohatapenaka in the capital Antananarivo. Various partners such as FFF FAO supported this Fair.

Many farmers who are members of the SOA network took part in the fair. Farmers from the north, west and centre of the island were brought together by the SOA Network to take part in the FIER MADA from 7 to 11 August 2024. One of them is the Vary Manitra cooperative in Anivorano Diego-II.

Consumers in the capital are interested in the ‘Madama Rose’ or VARY MANITRA rice produced by farmers in the Antsiranana-II district. The products brought to the capital by the cooperative are on the increase, says the president of the VARY MANITRA cooperative in Anivorano Tombozara Patrice. 1 tonne in 2022 and will become 5 tonnes this year.

The Fair is not only a commercial platform, but also a platform for farmers to share their experiences, said Ms Bakomala Haingotiana Angeline Irène, from Antanetibe Mahazaza OP SOA MITSINJO. The SOA MITSINJO is still an association supported by the SOA Network in the Analamanga Region.

For the first time, the Miara-Mizotra Association from Ambatoboeny took part in the FIER MADA. In addition to the products that the association brought to the capital, it convinced visitors to the Fair about its training.