Outside of Asia, Madagascar has the longest history of rice production. Wetland rice production systems are well developed and rice terraces are frequently found along the roads between Antananarivo and Fianarantsoa.
Rice cultivation is present in almost all districts of the country. The main rice season in the highlands region is from October to May. In Hosy, on the east coast of Madagascar, the irrigated rice growing season is from June to November, while on the west coast, rice growing is from April to October. The cultivation of Vatomandry and Asara lasts from October to May, while the cultivation of Atriary, in the plains and moderately flooded areas, lasts from January to July.
During the austral winter, farmers have no activities caused by this seasonality. They therefore carry out other activities such as the manufacture of bricks. All around the big cities like in Antananarivo, the capital, this activity is very important because it is one of the most job-creating during the dry season.
Improved varieties of indica, japonica and tropical japonica have recently been brought into cultivation. However, rice yield has stagnated over the past 20 years due to limited use of fertilizers.
Rice is the staple food of the inhabitants of Madagascar. In 2000, per capita rice consumption was 140 kg of brown rice per person per year. Many families eat rice three times a day, and most of the rice is grown locally. In some areas, the Ranonapango – a toasted rice drink – is reserved for special occasions.
Guides 10/07/2020
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