Tracking Development - Rio Tinto - Qit Madagascar Minerals

The construction Phase
A Handicraft Centre
QMM has been funding sustainable livelihood and development projects
as part of its obligation to affected populations (PAPs). Implemented
by the NGO Cielo Terra, the projects ran from 2007 to 2011, and
continue to operate under the Programme de Développement Intégré
(PDI, or Integrated Development Programme). Activities take place
at the Soaniavy Centre, known during the construction phase as
the “Airport Village,” due to its proximity to Fort Dauphin’s airport.
Housing contractors throughout the construction of the Port of Ehoala,
the complex is now a first-of-its-kind training centre.
Workshops in handicraft production are being offered. Through an
initial six-month training course, followed by a trial period and refresher
courses, women artisans have developed skills unmatched from the
region in four different specialities; embroidery, sewing, weaving and
braiding. Working mainly with natural materials found abundantly in the
area, including raffia, sisal and mahampy, 190 women residing near the
port and quarry have participated in these initiatives. Demonstrating
steady quality improvement over the past four years, the products
represent some of the finest craftwork in Madagascar and have been
sold internationally in Italy and La Reunion. Over 21,000 pieces have
been produced for a total income generation of 38 million Ariary
(US$19,000).
Participants, typically “mariners,” (wives of fishermen who fish from the
sea and lake systems) can earn up to 125,000 Ariary (US$63) per month.
With additional disposable income, changes are taking place across
households. Cielo Terra’s director, Veronica Bevivino explains, “The
beneficiaries are more empowered, more outspoken, make more frequent
trips into Fort Dauphin and are more proactive in their communities 15 .”
Nutrition standards and hygiene practices have also improved. Overall
quality of life has increased, proof this fruitful opportunity is making a
positive contribution in people’s lives.
Participants earn at minimum
40,000 Ariary (US$20) per
month and can generate a
monthly income up to 125,000
Ariary (US$63).
Mahampy reeds are harvested,
dried, dyed and woven into
placemats, table runners, wall
hangings and baskets.
Cielo Terra purchases embroidery
and sewing supplies from
Antananarivo for the production
of tablecloths, pillowcases,
curtains and other merchandise.
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