Summary

According to the Human Development Index, Madagascar ranks among the poorest countries in the world (183 out of 193[1]). The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly set back the country’s economic progress. The poverty rate has reached a record high of 79.9%[2], measured by the international poverty line of $1.90 per day. Rural regions such as Atsimo-Andrefana and Anosy in the south are particularly affected. Malnutrition, especially among children, is widespread. In these areas, access to basic healthcare is essential for survival.

In collaboration with the NGO Doctors for Madagascar and the local project developer Anka Madagascar, atmosfair supports the electrification of rural health centers that are not included in national electrification plans. The goal: to improve healthcare services through reliable access to electricity.

[1] Country Insights | Human Development Reports

[2] Madagascar Poverty Assessment: Navigating Two Decades of High Poverty and Charting a Course for Change

The Situation on the Ground

Primary health centers (Centres de Santé de Base, or CSBs) in rural Madagascar provide essential medical care, including the treatment of infectious diseases, minor injuries, and maternal health services. The latter is especially critical, as the maternal mortality rate remains alarmingly high at around 335 deaths per 100,000 live births.

However, most health centers have no reliable electricity. Medical staff are forced to carry out emergency procedures and childbirths at night using flashlights or candles. Vaccines and temperature-sensitive medications cannot be stored safely. Due to their remote locations, these centers are unlikely to be connected to the national power grid or decentralized mini-grids anytime soon.

Our Solution

atmosfair uses donations to finance the installation of solar PV systems with battery storage on the roofs of rural health centers. These systems provide 24/7 electricity. Surplus electricity is used to power mobile phone charging stations, generating small fees that help cover maintenance costs.

Implementation is handled by Anka Madagascar, which is responsible for installation and one year of maintenance. During this period, hospital staff are trained to operate and maintain the systems. After the first year, the health center’s management takes over, with ongoing support from Doctors for Madagascar.

After approximately 10 years, atmosfair will replace the battery storage systems. At the end of the system’s life cycle (about 20–25 years), Anka Madagascar will be responsible for dismantling. atmosfair monitors the long-term climate and healthcare benefits through annual project evaluations.

Your Support Makes a Difference

Many rural health centers in Madagascar are still waiting for electrification. Help us ensure reliable healthcare for thousands of people—with your donation.

Your contact at atmosfair

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