Vahatra is an association that is committed to improving the living conditions of disadvantaged families in the cities of Antsirabe. Its actions focus on vocational training, social support, savings and loans.
Madagascar is full of exceptional natural resources and remarkable biodiversity. Despite encouraging economic indicators in recent years, the majority of the population did not benefit. With an estimated population of 30.3 million in 2023, the country faces a high and persistent poverty rate, with 81% of the population living on less than $2.15 per day.
In 2002, the French association Inter Aide and the Malagasy association C.E.F.O.R (Crédit Epargne Formation) launched an economic and social development program in Madagascar. In 2007, the main actors in the program decided to create a Malagasy NGO, VAHATRA (meaning “roots” in Malagasy), in order to perpetuate, develop and further empower the activities undertaken. In 2008, VAHATRA obtained a level 1 license as a Microfinance Institution (IMF) from the Madagascar Banking and Financial Supervision Commission (CSBF).
Since its inception, VAHATRA has strived to implement an integrated program, combining both financial and non-financial services. It affects a population living on less than 2 dollars a day, mainly targeting women (70%), agricultural activities (73% of the portfolio) and activities related to services and trade (21%). It supports its beneficiaries both economically and socially, through a social support service and health insurance, aimed at making families more resilient. VAHATRA serves its customers through its 38 agencies and employs more than 308 employees.
The mutual health insurance set up by the institution since 2012 allows micro-entrepreneurs to benefit from coverage and financial protection in the event of major health risks, thus facilitating access to quality care. VAHATRA's services include:
