Latest news with #Malagasy
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Chinese hybrid rice boosts food security in Madagascar
Song (back, third right) poses with local residents in Anosiarivo, Madagascar, on March 25, 2025. – Xinhua photo ANTANANARIVO (May 31): 'Before, our land barely produced enough to feed us. Now, with hybrid rice, we not only eat our fill, but sell the surplus and even save to buy more land,' a farmer called Femosoa Rakatondratsara told me, smiling beside his blossoming rice field. Mahitsy, a town some 35km north-west of Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, is home to the Chinese Hybrid Rice High-Yield Demonstration Base. In the village of Anosiarivo, another hybrid rice site, vibrant paddies stretched to the horizon under blue skies and fluffy clouds. Ramboasalama Anolalaina Ratsina, an expert from the Ministry of Agriculture, was leading local farmers in pest control. Having twice received planting training in central China's Hunan Province, he is now a key figure in local hybrid rice promotion. 'All my planting skills came from Chinese experts,' he said. Over the years, Chinese experts in Madagascar have not only promoted quality seeds but also passed on knowledge, from hands-on fieldwork to theoretical training. Now, technicians like Ratsina are sharing that expertise with farmers across Madagascar. After Irene Nonenjanahary's first hybrid rice harvest brought in a bumper yield last year, she is more confident than ever. 'We used to rely on the weather,' she said. 'Now we rely on technology.' In 2007, China launched the hybrid rice demonstration center project in Madagascar, led by the Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences and Yuan's Hi-Tech Seed. It was one of the 10 agricultural technology demonstration centers pledged at the first Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. 'Farmers here relied entirely on the mercy of nature. Poor seeds, limited knowledge, and weak infrastructure meant many couldn't even grow enough to eat,' said Hu Yuefang, a Chinese agronomist. Hu (right) inspects hybrid rice growth with local farmers in Mahitsy, Madagascar, on March 25, 2025. – Xinhua photo 'The first challenge to promote hybrid rice was choosing the right seed,' said Hu. To identify varieties suited to Madagascar's climate and soil, he and his team carried dozens of seed samples across almost every major rice-growing region of the island, eventually developing five locally adapted varieties with high yields, drought tolerance and flood resistance. 'But the real challenge was getting farmers to accept these 'foreign' seeds,' said Chinese agricultural expert Song Chunfang. To prove the benefits, they planted side-by-side demonstration plots – one with local rice, the other with hybrid. Using the same planting methods, the yield of hybrid rice was two to three times that of local varieties. Impressed by the yield, farmers dubbed it 'Tsarabe' – 'the best thing' in Malagasy. Hu recalled living in leaky thatched huts, collecting rainwater to drink, and trekking kilometres for firewood. 'Once, while transforming a swampland, a tree branch pierced my foot. It was the villagers who carried me out,' he said. Farmers walk along the ridges of hybrid rice paddies in Mahitsy, Madagascar, on March 26, 2025. – Xiinhua photo Today, hybrid rice cultivation in Madagascar has reached a cumulative 90,000 hectares, with average yields of 7.5 tons per hectare – two to three times that of local varieties – making it Africa's largest hybrid rice producer by area. 'I hope one day hybrid rice will be planted across Madagascar,' said Eric Laperozy, my Malagasy colleague. 'That way, more families can eat well, earn more, and my country can achieve food self-sufficiency.' – Xinhua China hybrid rice Madagascar Xinhua
Hi Dubai
6 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Chambers Organises Dubai–Madagascar Business Forum
Dubai Chambers hosted a high-level delegation of 60 Malagasy companies at its headquarters today, marking a major step forward in strengthening economic relations between Dubai and Madagascar. The Dubai–Madagascar Business Forum brought together top government officials, ministers, and business leaders from both sides. The event was held in the presence of Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar, who expressed his country's strong interest in expanding bilateral cooperation across key sectors. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, welcomed the delegation alongside President and CEO Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah and several representatives from Dubai's private sector. Al Mansoori highlighted the 90% surge in non-oil trade between the two markets in 2024, which jumped from AED 692 million in 2023 to AED 1.3 billion. He also pointed to the upcoming launch of Emirates Airlines' direct flights to Antananarivo in September 2024 as a major enabler for future trade, tourism, and business growth. In his address, President Rajoelina praised Dubai's global economic standing and reiterated Madagascar's commitment to enhancing ties in sectors such as tourism, logistics, real estate, technology, and financial services. Lootah presented a detailed overview of investment opportunities in Dubai, encouraging Malagasy companies to explore the emirate's diverse and rapidly growing economic landscape. The forum underscored a shared commitment to driving sustainable economic partnerships and unlocking new avenues for collaboration between the two business communities. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Web Release
7 days ago
- Business
- Web Release
Dubai Chambers showcases Dubai's competitive advantages to 60 companies from Madagascar in the presence of Madagascar President
By Editor_wr Last updated May 27, 2025 Dubai Chambers has welcomed a delegation of 60 companies from Madagascar to explore investment opportunities and potential business partnerships during the Dubai–Madagascar Business Forum, which was held today at its headquarters. The event reaffirmed the significance of strengthening economic ties between Dubai and Madagascar and focused on advancing cooperation across high-potential trade and investment sectors. The forum was held in the presence of H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, who led a high-level delegation featuring ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders from Malagasy enterprises. The delegation was received by H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, and H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, together with representatives from Dubai's private sector. In his keynote address, H.E. President Rajoelina praised Dubai's remarkable global economic status and reaffirmed his country's interest in deepening bilateral relations across several priority sectors. During his welcome address at the forum, H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, stated: 'The steady growth in economic ties between Dubai and Madagascar reflects our shared commitment to strengthening bilateral partnerships and exploring new opportunities for impactful cooperation that support sustainable economic growth. The launch of Emirates Airlines' direct service to Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, in September 2024 marked a significant milestone in boosting bilateral trade, tourism, and collaboration.' H.E. Al Mansoori added: 'Dubai's non-oil trade with Madagascar increased by 90% during 2024, growing from AED 692 million in 2023 to reach AED 1.3 billion. This significant leap reflects the expanding momentum of bilateral economic relations. We are committed to providing comprehensive support to develop relationships and partnerships between the business communities in Dubai and Madagascar, highlighting ways to capitalise on promising opportunities within vital sectors of mutual interest.' During the forum, H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining promising sectors for bilateral investment and trade collaboration. H.E. Lootah highlighted key investment opportunities available in Dubai for businesses and investors from Madagascar across key sectors including tourism, entertainment, logistics, real estate, information technology, and financial services. Prev Post Fenerbahçe Beko wins Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four Comments are closed.
Mid East Info
7 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Chambers showcases Dubai's competitive advantages to 60 companies from Madagascar in the presence of Madagascar President
H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori: 'The steady growth in economic ties between Dubai and Madagascar reflects the commitment of both sides to strengthen bilateral partnerships and explore new opportunities for impactful cooperation.' 'The launch of direct flights by Emirates to Antananarivo in 2024 marked a significant milestone in boosting bilateral trade, tourism, and collaboration.' 'Dubai's non-oil trade with Madagascar increased by 90% during 2024, reaching a value of AED 1.3 billion.' Dubai, UAE – Dubai Chambers has welcomed a delegation of 60 companies from Madagascar to explore investment opportunities and potential business partnerships during the Dubai–Madagascar Business Forum, which was held today at its headquarters. The event reaffirmed the significance of strengthening economic ties between Dubai and Madagascar and focused on advancing cooperation across high-potential trade and investment sectors. The forum was held in the presence of H.E. Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, who led a high-level delegation featuring ministers, senior government officials, and business leaders from Malagasy enterprises. The delegation was received by H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, and H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, together with representatives from Dubai's private sector. In his keynote address, H.E. President Rajoelina praised Dubai's remarkable global economic status and reaffirmed his country's interest in deepening bilateral relations across several priority sectors. During his welcome address at the forum, H.E. Eng. Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, stated: 'The steady growth in economic ties between Dubai and Madagascar reflects our shared commitment to strengthening bilateral partnerships and exploring new opportunities for impactful cooperation that support sustainable economic growth. The launch of Emirates Airlines' direct service to Antananarivo, Madagascar's capital, in September 2024 marked a significant milestone in boosting bilateral trade, tourism, and collaboration.' H.E. Al Mansoori added: 'Dubai's non-oil trade with Madagascar increased by 90% during 2024, growing from AED 692 million in 2023 to reach AED 1.3 billion. This significant leap reflects the expanding momentum of bilateral economic relations. We are committed to providing comprehensive support to develop relationships and partnerships between the business communities in Dubai and Madagascar, highlighting ways to capitalise on promising opportunities within vital sectors of mutual interest.' During the forum, H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining promising sectors for bilateral investment and trade collaboration. H.E. Lootah highlighted key investment opportunities available in Dubai for businesses and investors from Madagascar across key sectors including tourism, entertainment, logistics, real estate, information technology, and financial services. About Dubai Chambers: Dubai Chambers is a non-profit public entity that supports Dubai's vision as a global player by empowering businesses, delivering innovative value-added services, and unlocking access to influential networks. In March 2021, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the restructuring of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and the formation of three chambers for the emirate, namely Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dubai International Chamber, and Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, which now operate under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers.
Korea Herald
13-05-2025
- Science
- Korea Herald
Renowned Madagascar Scientist, Explorer and Mentor Named Winner of World's Leading Animal Conservation Award
NEW YORK, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Officials from the Indianapolis Zoo announce Dr. Lily-Arison René de Roland, renowned scientist and biodiversity conservationist in Madagascar, as the 2025 Winner of the Indianapolis Prize. Throughout his years of research and expeditions, René de Roland has discovered several new species, led the establishment of four national protected areas and developed community-focused conservation programs. Since 2004, he has been the National Director of The Peregrine Fund's Madagascar Program, where he oversees a team of 48 Malagasy conservationists working to conserve wildlife and landscapes in his homeland. René de Roland is the tenth Winner of the Indianapolis Prize. "Dr. René de Roland's community-based models and decades of research have not only alleviated human-wildlife conflicts—they have also helped to conserve Madagascar's unique and wonderful animals and ecosystems. He is dedicated, resourceful and a fierce advocate for Madagascar wildlife, and I'm proud to announce him as this year's Indianapolis Prize Winner," said Dr. Rob Shumaker, President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo. René de Roland's contribution to the discovery of a variety of species is substantial, including the rediscovery of the Madagascar pochard, a rare duck thought to be extinct since the 1990s. He and his team rediscovered the species during a challenging expedition to a remote area of northern Madagascar in 2006. René de Roland has also contributed to the discovery of two previously undescribed lemur species in northern Madagascar. Due to his extensive impact on biodiversity conservation, scientists named a newly described wolf spider, Katableps lilyarisoni, after René de Roland in 2021. Most recently, during a 2022 expedition, René de Roland led a team to the rediscovery of the Dusky tetraka, a small songbird that had eluded ornithologists for 20 years. "I am honored to receive this prestigious award from the Indianapolis Zoo," said René de Roland. "My work is inspired by my pride for my country's biodiversity and my love for its wonderful people." René de Roland has led the creation of four national protected areas in Madagascar totaling over 1,500 square miles, including rainforests, dry forests, wetlands, mangroves and savannahs. These efforts not only preserve endemic Madagascar species under threat but also improve the lives of local people, with whom René de Roland works to manage these areas and sustainably leverage their resources. Through his work, René de Roland has also helped to shape the next generation of Malagasy conservationists. His legacy extends to more than 100 students at local Madagascar universities, with his mentees earning 90 master's degrees and 16 doctoral degrees. "The Peregrine Fund is tremendously proud of Lily, whose commitment to science, conservation and his community inspires us all," said Chris N. Parish, President and CEO of The Peregrine Fund. "We are beyond excited that the Indianapolis Prize is recognizing him for his research, mentorship and decades of work in the conservation profession." René de Roland earned his master's degree, doctoral degree and professorship at the University of Antananarivo in Madagascar. He joined The Peregrine Fund as a student in 1992 to study Madagascar's imperiled raptors. Established by the Indianapolis Zoo in 2004, the Indianapolis Prize recognizes and rewards the world's preeminent animal conservationists who have achieved major victories in advancing the sustainability of an animal species or group of species. Winners receive $250,000, which is the largest individual monetary award given in the animal conservation field. René de Roland, the 2025 Indianapolis Prize DeHaan Finalists and the 2025 Indianapolis Prize Emerging Conservationist Award Winner will be celebrated at the Indianapolis Prize Gala on Sept. 27, 2025, presented by Cummins Inc., in downtown Indianapolis. For additional media assets for the 2025 Indianapolis Prize, click here. To learn more about the previous Indianapolis Prize Winners, visit The Indianapolis Prize recognizes and rewards conservationists who have achieved major victories in advancing the sustainability of an animal species or group of species. The Emerging Conservationist Award, a newly established accolade in 2023, is given to a conservationist aged 40 or younger. Since 2004, the Indianapolis Prize has awarded more than $7.5 million in unrestricted cash awards, advancing the work of conservation scientists through financial support and public awareness. The Indianapolis Prize is a conservation initiative of the Indianapolis Zoo.
