Madagascar faces formidable political, social, economic, and environmental challenges that slow or block progress towards sustainable development and impede its Journey to Self-Reliance

Madagascar faces formidable political, social, economic, and environmental challenges that slow or block progress towards sustainable development and impede its Journey to Self-Reliance (J2SR).  At the same time, the country’s considerable natural resources, unique biodiversity, and human capital resources from a predominantly young population offer numerous opportunities for potential economic growth and social progress.  Capitalizing on these inherent strengths, Madagascar’s Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) will implement an integrated approach designed to build a strong foundation through the following Development Objectives (DOs): DO 1) improved human capacity; DO 2) improved government accountability and effectiveness; and DO 3) greater availability of sustainable economic opportunities.

With a GDP per capita of $1,678 and many development challenges, Madagascar will not become self-reliant within the timeframe of this CDCS.  However, the CDCS will work to set a foundation which includes improved human capacity, good governance, and increased economic opportunity within the most promising growth sectors.  Improvements in these areas will contribute to a healthier and better educated population, a more accountable government, and more resilient communities.  These will in turn catalyze greater and more inclusive economic activity that Madagascar requires to finance further investments to address its development challenges and lessen its heavy reliance on donor funding. "