Economy
FIER MADA - Local oil gains ground
Anjozorobe Oil Mill continues its expansion thanks to the ODOF project. Its peanut and soy oil production is growing, while its products gradually gain market share across Madagascar. The Anjozorobe oil mill produces nearly 7,000 liters of oil per month. Two years after its creation through the ODOF project, or "One District One Factory", Anjozorobe Oil Mill is recording increased production and expanding its presence on the Malagasy market. Its peanut and soy oils are now sold in several regions of the country, both in small grocery stores and large supermarkets. The company now produces nearly 7,000 liters of oil per month, compared to only 250 to 500 liters at its start. This evolution reflects growing consumer acceptance of local products. "At launch, it was difficult to convince customers to adopt oil made in Madagascar, as they were used to the products they used daily. Today, those who have tried it continue to buy it," explains Jean Honoré Rahajarimanana, factory manager. The oil mill processes over 18 tonnes of seeds monthly, mainly peanuts, to produce its oils, sold at 13,000 ariary per liter. According to the manager, these products are appreciated for their quality, transparency, and kitchen efficiency, allowing households to use less oil. Challenge Supply relies on partnerships with farmers and cooperatives in Anjozorobe district. The company also supports producers by providing suitable seeds to obtain peanut varieties meeting processing requirements. Since not all seeds can be used for oil production, particular attention is paid to raw material quality. Beyond production, the initiative contributes to local economic development. By purchasing harvests directly from producers, the oil mill offers them a more advantageous outlet than traditional collection systems. The activity mobilizes nearly two hundred people, including farmers, collectors, delivery personnel, and factory employees. The ODOF project enabled the acquisition of an oil press, still in service. The company subsequently invested in other equipment, particularly for filtering, bottling, and packaging, to improve product quality. Despite this progress, raw material supply remains a challenge. Peanut exports can reduce seed availability on the local market and complicate production. The company intends to continue its development by relying on its producer network and growing demand for locally made oils.
Source: L'Express de Madagascar