Agaléga Rebuild: Food Self-Sufficiency & Infrastructure Projects Fast-Tracked

The government has announced a multi-million rupee investment strategy for the Agaléga archipelago, prioritising food self-sufficiency and the reconstruction of essential infrastructure following the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Chido.

A dedicated Rs 25 million Master Plan, outlined in the 2025-2026 Budget, aims to foster sustainable development and elevate living standards for the islanders.

Central to this plan is a new poultry farm designed to bolster local food security.

According to Sébastien Lamy, General Manager of the Outer Islands Development Corporation (OIDC), the farm is nearing completion, with laying hens scheduled to arrive this March to secure a local egg supply.

A Community in Waiting

Despite these promises, the archipelago remains at a delicate crossroads.

The visit of a government delegation led by Paul Bérenger in April 2025 initially sparked hope, but months later, residents report a “persistent uncertainty.”

Frustration is mounting among the local population, who cite a “perpetual gap” between official announcements and the reality on the ground.

Laval Soopramanien, president of the ‘Les Amis d’Agaléga’ association, noted that residents feel they must “beg for what is due to them.” Key concerns raised by the community include:

• A fragile education system and limited medical care.
• Difficulties in sourcing basic food supplies.
• Lack of employment opportunities for the youth.
• Delayed housing projects and poor communication with the mainland.

Repairing the Ravages of Cyclone Chido

A significant portion of current efforts is focused on healing the scars left by Cyclone Chido. In the 2024-2025 Budget, Rs 49.1 million was allocated for emergency interventions, including the chartering of ships and Dornier aircraft to deliver essential goods and construction materials.

The OIDC confirmed that repairs to homes, particularly on the South Island, are progressing, alongside the rehabilitation of the Medco Agalega Secondary School and the local primary school. Additionally, a traditional economic pillar is being revived through the replanting of coconut groves.

Economic Future and “Master Plan” Goals

While the government highlighted the Rs 25 million Master Plan, Mr Lamy clarified that total expenditure—once logistics and transport costs are factored in—will significantly exceed that figure.

Beyond the poultry farm, the plan involves defining new zones for housing and commerce to provide a more stable future.

However, the sensitive issue of a National Housing Development Company (NHDC) project for the islands remains unanswered, with the relevant ministry yet to comment.

A community meeting is slated for late January to determine the next steps regarding the population’s priority demands.

Economic Insight: The drive for self-sufficiency is seen as a vital step in giving Agaléans “true economic power” and placing them at the heart of the archipelago’s structural decisions.

Source: l’Express