Holistically Alleviating Poverty in Madagascar

Madagascar’s government health expenditure continues to be amongst the lowest globally, with remote communities often deprioritised. This has caused major infrastructure gaps, with approximately half of health facilities in Madagascar lacking access to adequate WASH facilities. Rural CSBs, which are community health centres, provide a wide range of essential services to their local communities, but are in urgent need of improvements to ensure a healthier and more sanitary environment, which can ensure both patients and medical staff have the facilities needed for appropriate care.

The CSB serving the remote community of Volobe exemplifies the Anosy region’s health infrastructure challenges, where a total of five staff members tend to around 400 patients a month. The existing latrine facility is unable to accommodate the needs of patients and staff, with poor infrastructure and a lack of gender segregation inhibiting privacy, especially regarding individuals who need a sanitary and dignified space to manage their menstruation. The CSB opens at night for childbirth services and emergencies; however, the extremely limited electricity limits the quality and scope of these services, with staff reliant on the lighting of kerosene lamps and torches. This is a major barrier to safe and improved care delivery at night.  

Through the CSB Volobe project, SEED will construct crucial infrastructure and facility improvements. SEED will repair the two existing latrines, construct staff accommodation (including three latrines), and an MHM/shower facility, alongside installing a rainwater harvesting system with handwashing stations. WASH training will also be provided for all CSB staff. These improvements will provide clean water and proper sanitation, directly addressing preventable diseases and improving patient safety.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place in April 2026 with full construction activities now underway, beginning with the repair of the CSB roof in anticipation of the installation of the solar energy system. This system will provide reliable nighttime lighting, meaning safer childbirth experiences, better emergency care, and a more effective healthcare system overall.

The project will ultimately improve working conditions for CSB staff while enhancing access to health services for the more than 9,700 community members who attend Volobe CSB. We are grateful for your continued support and generosity, which is essential in making this transformation possible.