In Antananarivo and other cities in Madagascar, begging is an omnipresent reality. Many families send their children to beg, while others come from the countryside with the same goal. As travelers, it is essential to understand the impact of our actions and to act responsibly.
It may be tempting, during your visit, to give money directly. However, this can encourage a cycle of dependency. Often, very poor parents, and sometimes illiterate, prefer to send their children to the streets rather than to school. This dynamic undermines the efforts of local NGOs, who work hard to take children off the streets and provide them with a better future.
As a tourist, you can make a difference by choosing more constructive ways to help. For example, by paying adults for services, such as watching cars, you help them earn a living with dignity while allowing them to learn a trade.
If you wish to make donations, prioritize elderly individuals who cannot survive on their own or NGOs that fight for change. Also, offer your unused medications, computer equipment, school supplies, clothing, and shoes to local NGOs or associations like Vivy Green and Humanity or to local dispensaries, instead of giving money directly. Consider supporting local projects, such as education or vocational training programs, that help communities become self-sufficient. By choosing to provide your support thoughtfully, you contribute to sustainable change while preserving the dignity of the most vulnerable. During your trip to Madagascar, commit to making a difference.Together, we can help without perpetuating begging and promote a better future for all.
