Home improvement in depressed neighbourhoods of Antananarivo and its suburbs

In Antananarivo’s Lower City, India, most families live in poor housing without toilets, running water, or secure land ownership. To help, Enda Océan Indien (Enda OI), with micro-credit partners, created a programme allowing families to save money and access loans to build small, safe houses and shared latrines.
Families save for a year based on what they can afford. They then qualify for a loan, with Enda OI acting as guarantor. Enda OI also provides subsidies to cover any remaining costs. Legal help is given to prove land ownership, and social support is offered throughout. Houses are built with affordable local materials and follow simple, standard designs. Latrines are shared between extended families, with hygiene training provided.
Over 300 homes and 80 latrines have been built, helping nearly 2,000 people. Health and hygiene have improved significantly, and some families now have better income from home-based work. More than 18% of families keep saving after the project ends.
Enda OI also works with local authorities to allow construction despite strict building rules and to support a long-term social housing policy. The approach focuses on community involvement, capacity-building, and long-term sustainability.
Despite challenges like political instability, rising costs, and complex land laws, the project continues to grow, now active in over 60 districts. Lessons learned show that with the right support, even the poorest families can improve their homes, health, and future.