Breaking Barriers: Empowering Rural Women Agripreneurs in Madagascar

Photo credit: Personal

Madagascar: As Madagascar continues to face challenges in food security and agricultural development, one woman’s journey stands out as a beacon of empowerment, transformation, and resilience. Vololona Ravelonjatovo, a Master Trainer with the Farmer Business School (FBS), is not only reshaping the future of agribusiness in Madagascar but also paving the way for more women to take on leadership roles in the agricultural sector.

A Passion for Change
Her journey as a Master Trainer began in 2019, when she saw a call for expressions of interest from FBS. With a decade of experience in rural training and as a former trainer with WWF, Vololona was no stranger to the challenges of agricultural development. Yet, the FBS approach intrigued her, offering a unique opportunity to change how farmers manage their farms. “The FBS approach proved to be particularly interesting for me,” she says, “as it not only focuses on practical skills but also brings about a fundamental change in farm management, which is vital for the farmers of Madagascar.” Through the FBS, Vololona has trained over 500 farmers across Madagascar, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to improve their farming practices.

Overcoming Gender and Ethnic Barriers
Vololona’s journey as a trainer hasn’t been without its challenges. Early in her career, she encountered significant resistance, especially from male participants in rural areas where gender and ethnic stereotypes are prevalent. One particularly challenging experience took place in the Anosy Region, located in the far South of Madagascar, where women are often considered inferior. When Vololona arrived for the training, the participants were initially skeptical of her ability to lead, not only because she was a woman but also because of her ethnic background. “At first, they rejected me. They saw me as an outsider,” Vololona recalls.

Despite the challenges, Vololona was able to break through the resistance, proving that her knowledge and approach could transcend cultural boundaries. The experience was a turning point, reinforcing her belief in the power of education to overcome prejudice. “By the end of the training, even the most skeptical participants were engaging and learning,” she says.

Pride in Progress
One of the highlights of Vololona’s career was her involvement in updating the FBS training booklets, a milestone that solidified her place in the network of Master Trainers. “Knowing that these training materials would reach thousands of people is incredibly rewarding,” Vololona shares.

As a trainer who has now risen to the level of Master Trainer, Vololona’s impact extends beyond just the farmers she trains. She has inspired a new generation of trainers, many of whom have looked to her as a role model. “I’ve received feedback from many trainers who told me that my story inspired them to push beyond their own limits,” she says. “It’s not just about earning titles; it’s about constantly improving, learning, and being the best version of ourselves.”

Championing Gender Equality
Throughout her career, Vololona has made it a point to integrate gender equality and inclusion into her work. She believes that the agricultural sector is more productive and efficient when women are given the opportunity to lead. “I’ve always emphasized that sex and gender are not important criteria for becoming a Master Trainer. It’s about the knowledge and the ability to inspire others,” she explains.

Her efforts have had a noticeable impact, particularly on male trainees, who have begun to recognize the value of women in agribusiness. By integrating gender equality into her training, Vololona is not only changing how people farm but also challenging long-standing gender norms in rural communities.

A Message to Young Women
Vololona’s journey is a testament to the fact that women can excel in agribusiness, even in environments where societal expectations often limit their potential. “I always tell young women that motherhood should not slow down their goals,” she says. “In Madagascar, many women stop all activities when they are pregnant or breastfeeding. I want them to know that they can achieve their dreams while balancing their family responsibilities.”