As you delve into the villages, one fact becomes strikingly clear: a significant portion of Ile Sainte Marie’s population is comprised of children and youth. From the youngest infants to adolescents on the cusp of adulthood, these young individuals represent the future of our communities. For Nora-Madagascar, this demographic reality underscores the profound importance of our work.

Three reasons why it is critical to focus on children and youth in the village communities

1. A Foundation for the Future: Children and young people are the bedrock upon which the future of Sainte Marie will be built. By investing in their well-being, education, and development today, we are directly shaping a more prosperous and resilient tomorrow for the entire island.
2. Addressing Core Vulnerabilities: Despite the island’s natural beauty, many children and youth in Sainte Marie face daily challenges. Challanges including limited access to consistent nutrition, quality education and opportunities for growth. These foundational needs, if unmet, can perpetuate cycles of poverty and hinder individual and community progress.
3. Nora-Madagascar’s Impact: This is precisely where Nora-Madagascar steps in. Our core mission is to empower these young lives. A cornerstone of our efforts, for instance, is the implementation of school food programs. It is well documented how providing nutritious meals in schools dramatically increases attendance rates. When children are well-fed, they can concentrate better, meaning they learn more effectively, and are more motivated to stay in school. This simple yet powerful intervention directly addresses both hunger and educational attainment, consequently setting children on a path towards a brighter future.
4. Unlocking Potential: By ensuring children have access to education and basic necessities, we help unlock their inherent potential. Educated and healthy youth are more likely to innovate, contribute to their local economies, and become leaders who can drive positive change within their own communities.

The population figures you see below are based on data collected by GRET in 2021. They are not just numbers; they represent thousands of young lives brimming with potential. Children waiting for the opportunity to thrive. At Nora-Madagascar, we are committed to providing those opportunities, one child, one meal, and one classroom at a time.

Village Population Overview 2021

• Ambodiafana: 684
• Ambourao: 1446
• Ifotatra: 878
• Agnivorano: 1132
• Loukintsy: 1672
• Maromandia: 780
• Analaradzy: 2484
• Ambodifotatra: 5584
• Ambodiforaha: 1524
• Saint Joseph: 2174
• Mahavelou: 1652
• Vohilava: 3574
• Agniribe: 1814
• Sahasifotra: 1580
• Agnafafy: 1141
• Ankobahoba: 1412
• Ambohitra: 524

The total population across all listed villages is 30,055.

Total Population Breakdown by Age Group

Looking at the demographic landscape in 2021
The youngest inhabitants, those aged 1 day to 3 years, number 2,740.
As we move slightly older, the 4 to 10-year-old group expands significantly to 4,561 individuals.
The adolescent and young adults, covering those from 11 to 20 years, show a further increase, with 5,845 residents.
The largest segments of the population fall within the prime working ages: individuals between 21 and 35 years account for 7,039 people. The 36 to 60-year-old group, which is the largest at 7,377.
Finally, the senior population, those 60 years and over, comprises 2,493 individuals.
This distribution underscores the significant presence of youth and working-age adults within the communities.