Tracking Development - Rio Tinto - Qit Madagascar Minerals

The Production Phase
A Piggery
Eighteen piggeries have been established in the communities
bordering Mandena, with over 550 pigs inhabiting the new
infrastructures. A new pig breed originating from Antsirabe
has been introduced to the region. Outweighing the local
variety by 50 to 100 kilos, the combined piggeries house 162
breeding pigs and have produced 395 piglets thus far.
The NGO FAFAFI has been implementing the animal
husbandry project since March 2010. With 141 participants,
the project’s first production took place in August 2010.
During the initial phase of the project, pigs less than four
months old were sold to supply other piggeries with their
first stock. Each piglet fetched a price between 80,000 to
100,000 Ariary (US$ 40 to 50). From every sale, 30 to 40
per cent of the total revenue is placed in a revolving fund;
participants keep the rest. The piggeries and fund are
managed by an association of participants. Each participant
takes responsibility for his or her pigs, caring for them, cleaning
and providing food. Theoretical and practical trainings, as well
as vaccinations, have been conducted by FAFAFI technicians.
As the project is entering its second phase, technicians are
supporting participants identify future sows. Pig waste is
currently being used in a new composting project and a
biogas project is envisaged for the future. Technicians are
also assisting in crossbreeding the two pig races. The new
variety, once fully grown, will sell for a much higher price and
produce more meat, which is sold in local markets and across
Fort Dauphin.
Community members interested in raising and breeding pigs are
encouraged to join the project.
The newly constructed piggery in Analambendrana houses nine
sows and benefits eight community members.
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