Created in 2019 by Fondation Hirondelle with the support of the United Nations, Studio Sifaka produces radio and web content aimed at young Madagascans. In July 2021, Studio Sifaka become an independent NGO pursuing its commitment to contributing to better access to information. Fondation Hirondelle continues to provide technical, editorial and financial support to the studio.
Studio Sifaka produces the only daily programme of its kind in Madagascar. It lasts two hours and is broadcast by a national network of 50 partner radio stations. It includes a national and regional news programme, as well as magazines and programmes offering advice (on health, employment, the environment), dialogue, music and Malagasy culture. The content is produced by a group of young Malagasy journalists, editors, presenters and technicians. The productions are also shared on the studio’s website and social networks.
Financial volume 2023
435,121 CHF
Sources of funding
- Switzerland (SDC – Core contribution )
- European Union
- FEDEVACO
Key figures for 2023
50 radios
partners
69 media professionals
trained
25 auditor clubs with 375 members
94,000 followers
on social media
2 broadcast languages
730 hours of broadcasting per year
Context
Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 75% of the population living on less than 2 dollars a day. Young Madagascans make up the majority of the population, with 60% under the age of 25. However, 70% of illiterate people in the country are aged between 15 and 24, most of whom are from rural areas. Madagascar’s young population represents a major opportunity for the country’s development, but also a multidimensional challenge in terms of education, training, employability, health and civic engagement.
Promoting the voice of youth for an inclusive and democratic society
In 2023, Studio Sifaka produced two hours of radio content every day. The programme includes news bulletins, magazines on a range of subjects including health, the economy, sport and culture, reports and debates. The “Débat des jeunes” programme, produced and broadcast three times a week, focuses on issues of democracy. It was particularly relevant during 2023, a presidential election year, providing young people with essential information about the election process and the candidates’ programmes.
Studio Sifaka unfortunately faced a decline in funding in 2024. Nevertheless, it remains committed to promoting the participation of young people in political and decisionmaking processes in Madagascar. By continuing to represent their interests and give young people a voice, the studio persists in its work to promote the development of a peaceful, inclusive, democratic and just society.
Priorities
- Inclusion of Malagasy youth
- Participation in democratic processes
Activities
- Daily production of 2 hours of programmes on various subjects
Studio Sifaka, with the support of Fondation Hirondelle, is working on developing its internal capacities and viability. In 2024, its training courses are targeting both journalists and technicians, as well as staff from partner community radio stations, whose level of skill in basic journalism and journalistic techniques vary. They will also deal with specific themes such as health and the environment, enabling journalists to cover these subjects more effectively.
Our impact
A survey conducted in early 2024 reveals a strong civic awareness among Studio Sifaka listeners, with a marked interest in local and national news. The positive impact of the programmes on their understanding of the electoral system can be seen in the responses of the listeners, who also recognise the effectiveness of the programmes on subjects related to employment, entrepreneurship & training.
Testimonial
“I find Studio Sifaka’s programmes very interesting. You cover almost every theme of interest to young people. My favourite programme is Ketrika Sy Kadra, where we can hear different business ideas and testimonials from young start-ups.”
RAKOTOMANGA Christian, listener in Antsirabe.