Itxassou: A decade of solidarity from the Amadea association serving Madagascar

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

Itxassou: A Decade of Exemplary Solidarity from the Amadea Association for the Development of Madagascar

For over forty years, the Amadea Association has been a driving force for solidarity focused on sustainable development and mutual aid in Madagascar, reflecting a strong collective consciousness and unwavering commitment. The town of Itxassou, nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, has become a focal point for this humanitarian initiative, thanks to its regular events and exemplary community mobilization. The recent celebration of the organization’s tenth anniversary, during the “Sing and Dance for Madagascar” evening, illuminated this long history of commitment and fraternity, highlighting the importance of a lasting partnership between local communities and community organizations. In one place, dance, music, conviviality, and solidarity came together to reveal the full richness of a collective project aimed at improving the lives of rural Malagasy youth.

In 2026, the cooperation between Itxassou and Madagascar is based on concrete actions, with a focus on training, health, education, and combating poverty. The growth of this collaboration reflects a clear understanding of the need to address the structural and social dysfunctions that hinder sustainable development on the island. Who would have thought, a decade ago, that a small town in the Basque Country would become a model of solidarity? The answer lies in the consistency of the Amadea association, but above all in a dynamic rooted in a local responsibility approach, particularly through the organization of events such as the one that brings together numerous volunteers and supporters in Itxassou each year. Ultimately, this decade illustrates the power of collective action, the strength of ecumenical mutual aid capable of transcending borders to meet the urgent needs of Madagascar.

Discover the importance of solidarity, this essential bond that unites individuals to support, share, and build a better future together.

Amadea’s pivotal role in social and educational development in Madagascar

Since its inception, Amadea has positioned itself as a key player in implementing sustainable programs aimed at strengthening local capacities in several regions of Madagascar. The organization’s structure rests on several pillars: vocational training, food security, disease control, and the promotion of children’s rights. Its approach goes beyond simple, one-off humanitarian aid; it is rooted in a commitment to creating a dynamic of autonomous and participatory development, where each beneficiary becomes an agent of their own change. In Madagascar, where the economic situation remains fragile and political instability hinders any lasting progress, Amadea’s approach appears as a breath of fresh air, essential for overcoming these systemic crises. The actions undertaken by the organization translate into concrete initiatives, such as the construction of schools, the establishment of health centers, and the implementation of technical training programs adapted to local realities. Over the years, these efforts have given thousands of young people a second chance – a crucial step in breaking the cycle of poverty and exclusion. Through its missions, Amadea has successfully brought together a wide range of local stakeholders, including authorities, partner NGOs, and the local population itself. The key to success lies in a collaborative approach, where effective cooperation is the driving force behind all progress in these isolated areas.

Discover the power of solidarity: a collective commitment to support, unite, and create a positive impact within communities.

Community events: catalysts for solidarity and fundraising in Madagascar. The initiatives in Itxassou perfectly illustrate how an annual event can become a powerful catalyst for solidarity. The latest edition of the “Sing and Dance for Madagascar” evening, held at the Sanoki Hall, brought together nearly 200 participants, volunteers, and supporters. With a program blending music, songs, dances, and tastings of Malagasy cuisine, this event demonstrates the vitality of local mobilization supporting a global cause. Since its first edition in 2015, this cultural celebration has raised over €18,844 to fund educational, health, and agricultural projects in Madagascar, proving that conviviality can be a true engine of engagement. This success is largely due to rigorous yet participatory organization, integrating all local stakeholders, including young people, families, and partner associations such as Idekia and Les Vieux Machins. Furthermore, highlighting Basque and Malagasy culture in these events helps to unite people around a common goal: supporting rural Malagasy youth in their aspirations for autonomy and personal development.

To further develop this intercultural dynamic, a list of recent key actions could include:

Organizing educational workshops for young Malagasy people 🎓

• Health and nutrition awareness campaigns 🍎
• Training in organic farming and rural development 🚜
• Supporting the construction of school and health facilities 🏫
• Mobilizing cultural and sporting events to strengthen community ties 🌍
• Type of action

Despite significant progress, there is still a long way to go for Madagascar, where challenges related to poverty, food insecurity, and public health continue to hinder development. Amadea’s positive impact over a ten-year period is reflected in concrete indicators and a tangible improvement in living conditions in several rural areas. For example, the reduction in infant morbidity, increased awareness of health issues, and greater access to education demonstrate that collective commitment is bearing fruit.

Certainly, efforts must be intensified at the national level in the face of numerous crises, such as the recent cyclones and domestic conflicts. The health situation linked to epidemics such as measles and other tropical diseases remains a concern, requiring an adaptive and coordinated response. Cooperation between local and international partners is crucial to continuing to advance Madagascar’s cause and ensuring the sustainability of programs. The question arises: to what extent can these initiatives be scaled up to achieve overall resilience? The answer lies in better coordination, increased youth involvement, and securing sustainable funding.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVC7JjZNKzg The future challenges of Itxassou-Madagascar cooperation for strengthened solidarity

With a view to sustainability and expansion, local stakeholders are now considering innovative solutions, adopting an integrated approach focused on youth, health, and the environment. The active participation of the Itxassou community, through its events, donations, and initiatives, demonstrates a model for other communities wishing to build a lasting partnership with Madagascar. The challenge for the coming years is to strengthen this sequence of actions with a view to local autonomy, while integrating the challenges related to climate change and global economic crises.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxbywDzLQpQ

How does the Amadea association structure its projects in Madagascar?

Amadea organizes its initiatives around a participatory and sustainable model, combining training, health, and community development, while mobilizing local and international stakeholders.

What concrete results have been achieved over the last decade?

Since 2015, Amadea has enabled the training of more than 500 young people, the construction of school and health facilities, and a significant reduction in malnutrition and infant morbidity.

What challenges remain for Madagascar?

Food insecurity, climate change, persistent political instability, and the management of health crises such as PMS remain major challenges requiring continued and strengthened mobilization.

How does the Itxassou community contribute to this solidarity?

Through cultural events, donations, and active civic engagement, this community embodies an exemplary model of human fraternity and international solidarity.

What are the prospects for strengthening this cooperation? Future ambitions revolve around empowerment, enhanced intercultural exchange, and adaptation to global climate and economic challenges.