Between April and June 2026, MAHAVOTSE, a social enterprise led by VAO HANITRINIRIKO Nalimbinjanahary Christaline in southern Madagascar, continued to strengthen its impact by expanding production, empowering local communities, and establishing itself as a trusted partner in the region’s growing artisanal sector.

Over the three-month period, the enterprise produced 700 litres of liquid soap, demonstrating steady growth in both technical expertise and production capacity. This consistent output reflects MAHAVOTSE’s commitment to meeting the needs of households across the Androy region while promoting locally made, environmentally friendly products.

Beyond production, May was dedicated to sharing knowledge and building local entrepreneurial capacity. At the invitation of the CEERE, MAHAVOTSE engaged 30 young people in discussions on green and blue entrepreneurship, encouraging them to embrace sustainable business opportunities while openly sharing the realities, challenges, and mindset required to succeed as entrepreneurs.

Knowledge-sharing session with young people in Ambovombe-Androy as part of an entrepreneurship awareness programme organized in partnership with CEERE.

The team also delivered practical soap-making training in Marovato (Tsihombe) as part of the AZAFADY BABAKO Project, implemented by the Regional Directorate of Tourism and Handicrafts in partnership with the FID. The initiative equipped local artisans with practical skills to strengthen their livelihoods. At the same time, another MAHAVOTSE team travelled to Ankaranabo (Bekily), where they trained 75 beneficiaries, demonstrating the enterprise’s growing capacity to manage large-scale community training programmes.

June marked a significant milestone in MAHAVOTSE’s journey. The enterprise expanded beyond manufacturing its own products to become a supplier of raw materials and equipment for other soap producers. It now provides essential production inputs—including caustic soda, professional soap moulds, silicate, calcium carbonate, fragrances, and SLES—to artisans across three strategic locations, helping strengthen the local soap-making value chain.

The quarter also brought notable achievements. Through its various training and awareness programmes, MAHAVOTSE directly reached 112 beneficiaries, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for economic empowerment in southern Madagascar. The enterprise was also selected as one of only seven businesses to participate in the AZAFADY BABAKO Project, an important recognition from the Regional Directorate of Tourism and Handicrafts and the FID that affirms confidence in MAHAVOTSE’s vision and professionalism.

Exhibition during the International Handicrafts Day celebration in Ambovombe-Androy.

Another highlight came on 10 June, when MAHAVOTSE showcased its products during the International Handicrafts Day (JMA 2026) exhibition. The event provided an excellent platform to promote the quality of its products, establish new professional connections, and further position the enterprise as a key player in the handicrafts sector of the Androy region.

Despite these successes, MAHAVOTSE continues to face significant logistical challenges. Most production materials—including caustic soda, silicate, and soap moulds—must be transported from Antananarivo, resulting in high transportation costs that reduce profit margins. Poor road infrastructure and unpredictable delivery schedules also disrupt production and affect the artisans who depend on the enterprise for essential supplies.

As illustrated above, the production of the liquid dishwashing soap is immediately followed by prompt local delivery to the customers.

Looking ahead, MAHAVOTSE aims to deepen its partnership with the Regional Directorate of Tourism and Handicrafts to expand its impact across southern Madagascar. The enterprise plans to become a leading technical partner in future programmes supporting women and youth, strengthen the regional supply chain for soap-making materials to reduce transport costs, and create more opportunities for local artisans through exhibitions and expanded market access.

As MAHAVOTSE continues to grow, it is demonstrating that youth-led social enterprises can drive sustainable livelihoods, strengthen local economies, and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs committed to environmental stewardship and community development.

Por, Dennis Owuoche

Responsável de Comunicações, AJAN