Finding a solution to make the lemon processing plant in Manandriana operational is one of the commitments announced by the President of the Refoundation of the Republic of Madagascar (PRRM), Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, during his visit to the commune of Ambovombe Centre, Manandriana district, Amoron’i Mania region, on Saturday, on the occasion of the second edition of the Lemon Festival. Although a processing plant is already installed on-site, it remains non-operational. The Head of State announced that he would send technicians to identify solutions to get it running.
Manandriana is a major lemon production hub in the region. Farmers in the district’s 12 communes harvest lemons four times a year, but they face significant challenges in selling, marketing, and processing their products, leading to substantial losses as much of the fruit goes to waste.
The plant, established under the ‘One District One Factory’ (ODOF) program, could add value to local production, but it remains stalled due to operational difficulties. By sending technicians, the President aims to facilitate the distribution of farmers’ produce and develop lemon-derived products.
According to a June 2026 statement from the Ministry of Industrialization and Private Sector Development (MIDSP), 89 factories have been installed under the ODOF program, but only 30% are fully operational due to missing equipment, technical breakdowns, or management issues. There is also a mismatch between some factory locations and local production capacity.
During his visit, the President also addressed the issue of district accessibility, ordering the acceleration and standardization of the 18 km road rehabilitation project connecting Manandriana to National Route 7. A budget of 100 million Ariary was announced for road maintenance across the 12 communes. Additionally, social aid was provided, including fertilizers, rice, bicycles, essential goods, sewing machines, generators, and equipment for people with disabilities.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-06 16:53:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/industrialisation-le-colonel-michael-randrianirina-veut-relancer-lusine-de-transformation-de-citron-a-manandriana/
