Antananarivo

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Madagascar).

Antananarivo is Madagascar’s capital city and is located in the center of the island. With a population of almost 1.3 million, it is also the biggest city in the country. Although poverty tends to be particularly high in Madagascar’s rural areas, urban poverty remains a reality for many families in Antananarivo. The city is expanding, putting more and more strain on infrastructure and social services, which are already in short supply. Furthermore, many children are forced to work

Since 1996, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Antananarivo.

3/4
Of people in Antananarivo live in poverty

Widespread poverty

While the economic situation in the city of Antananarivo tends to less dire than in Madagascar’s more rural parts, living conditions in the capital are still extremely tough for thousands of families. In fact, around three quarters of the people live in poverty. As the city is growing, basic infrastructure and services are under pressure. Many people live in slums and face extremely poor living conditions. Their houses are often mere shacks, without running water or electricity. Diseases spread quickly in densely populated slums, while access to medical care is limited.

17%
Of primary school age children can read

Low school attendance

Since so many people in Antananarivo live in poverty and struggle to make a living, children are often expected to contribute to family income. The rise of child labour means that more and more children and young people are deprived of an education, which decreases their chances of escaping the vicious cycle of poverty. Only 17% of primary school age children have minimum reading competencies. However, the immediate needs of the family are in many cases far more pressing than any long-term prospects.

Your support makes a difference for children in Antananarivo

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
150
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
30
Young people
Take part in trainings
20
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
140
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Siblings having an affectionate moment together. Children in our care grow up in an safe environment where they know they are not alone (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Madagascar).

How your support helps in Antananarivo

Strengthening families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run trainings so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.