The winners of the 2026 Pierre CASTEL Prize in Madagascar have been announced. National auditions were held yesterday, July 31, at STAR headquarters in Andranomahery, marking the culmination of a rigorous selection process. Created in 2018, the Pierre CASTEL Prize is a pan-African competition supporting innovative entrepreneurs committed to sustainable development and transforming African food systems. For the 2026 edition, organized in seven countries, Madagascar received 186 applications. After review, 32 projects were selected, with six semi-finalists chosen to present their initiatives before the national jury. Following deliberations, the prize was awarded to Herilaza Nandrianina, manager of Sakafo Madagascar. His company transforms fruits and vegetables to reduce agricultural losses, support local producers, and provide affordable food to Malagasy consumers, with medium and long-term export ambitions. The winner receives a grant of 25,000 euros, along with support including mentoring, training, and integration into the Pierre CASTEL Prize's pan-African network. The next stage awaits: representing Madagascar before the Pan-African Grand Jury, chaired by Grégory Clerc, CEO of the CASTEL Group, alongside other winners from participating countries. This prize illustrates STAR's commitment to promoting local innovation and supporting initiatives driving sustainable growth.