Handmade goods are everywhere in Madagascar. The Malagasy craftsmanship market is also remarkably diverse. Today, training in crafts professions is becoming a solution to the difficult situations faced by unemployed men and women.

The Mada Fusion Association (AMF), which showcases creations in plant-based fibers, is one of the rare organizations to prioritize women in the training it offers.

The Organization's Purpose

« Unemployed women or those with low incomes exist everywhere in the world, but there are many in Madagascar ». Human dignity is the key factor that drove Kemba to establish this organization in 2017 to lift women out of poverty and create a source of steady income, knowing that environmental protection and the respect for women's and children's rights are the core values she holds dear.

With the goal of enabling the association's women to achieve a better life, they are educated in environmental protection, civic responsibility, basic hygiene, healthy nutrition, and the rights of women and children.

The training programs emphasize ethics and quality because, according to Kemba: « achieving beautiful quality in your work brings beautiful quality to your life ». She provides the tools, but it's up to the members to make the most of them.

The association doesn't operate by asking for money or relying on sponsorships. They created their own brand: Nature Attitude, make their products, and sell them. However, they do accept school kits or educational toys for the members' children.

A Unique Workshop

Located in the quiet neighborhood of Ambatobe in Antananarivo, a beautiful two-story house with a garden has become the workplace for about thirty women. The spacious ground floor, flooded with light from large bay windows, creates a truly unique work environment.

Finished creations are displayed and arranged throughout the space. Their remarkable quality reflects meticulous, sustainable production and a commitment to providing working conditions designed to help each person flourish, far removed from industrial settings.

The process begins with natural dyes for the fibers, obtained from plant extracts or vegetable peels that are collected and boiled, such as onion skins, bougainvillea, indigo, and more—all prepared on-site.

Although the association was created to benefit women, one man is notably present at the workshop, inseparable from his wife. The two completed the training together and work side by side. One is never without the other.

Combining the practical with the pleasurable for our travelers seeking plant-fiber craftsmanship of excellent quality, ethical and environmentally respectful, ranging from weaving and embroidery to crochet and braiding.

Olive Rama

© Détours Madagascar - October 24, 2019