Madagascar has a rich history of rice cultivation. Outside of Asia, Madagascar has the longest tradition of rice production, and this staple is cultivated in almost all districts of the country. For the Malagasy people, rice is a core part of their diet: many families eat it three times a day, and most of it is homegrown. On special occasions, Ranonapango may be served – a traditional drink made from toasted rice and boiling water.

In Madagascar, however, people earn less than US 1.90 per day on average, and the Malagasy population is severely affected by food insecurity, including food shortages. Domestic production of rice, for example, still does not meet the needs of the island, and the country has to rely heavily on imported rice to help ensure national food security.

Hopefully, not for much longer however: Madagascar has set itself the goal of being rice self-sufficient by the end of 2020.