Madagascar

Madagascar is part of the Province of the Indian Ocean, covering Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles, and was founded in 1973. However Mothers' Union first came to Madagascar in 1903. There are 5,560 members here - the majority membership within the overall province. The membership is a vibrant, growing community of all ages, with a diverse outreach programme.

In 2008 Madagascar was struck by two cyclones, both of which brought severe flooding. Political unrest has also led to conflict, particularly in the capital Antananarivo. Laurette, Mothers' Union worker from the capital wrote to us "at the moment everything seems to be at a standstill in this country. it is so unsafe. We have two government and they are still fighting for power. Please remember us in your prayers."

As with other countries in the province, human trafficking, particularly of women into the sex industry and children as child labourers, is a real problem in Madagascar. In 2007 Mothers' Union gave a grant to enable leaders and clergy to discuss the issues - and steps which could be taken to fight against the problem. The decision was to establish nine "listening centres" wehre women can come for safety, counselling and other essential services.

The members have also started literacy and numeracy classes for women and young girls, helping hundreds of women who have previously not had access to education.

Members also play an integral part in Church life, with many members choosing to be lay readers, Sunday school leaders and members of the Church Council. Mothers' Union?also provides Bible study classes and marriage preparation programmes to support the church family.