EISA-Madagascar
EISA opened an office in Madagascar in 2007 and is working in partnership with local organizations and stakeholders.
Women in politics programme
In 2007, EISA implemented a programme in Madagascar to enhance and encourage gender equity in the political and decision-making processes in preparation for the 2007 Parliamentary elections. The programme supports women who want to enter the political arena. EISA has trained 180 women in technical, analytical and communication skills as well as practical skills such as public speaking, using the media, debating and understanding transformatory leadership so that they can confidently contribute to the promotion of gender equity. In 2008, training of trainers workshops took place as well as a Post Electoral Review workshop and workshops on Civil Society-Parliament engagement.
By 2009, EISA Madagascar had been active in drafting a Plan of Action for the inclusion of at least 30% women in political and public affairs. Initially a steering committee was established following a seminar in 2008 entitled Gender Equality in the Democratic Process and the Institutions in Madagascar and the SADC countries. The Steering Committtee formed itself into the VMLF (Women's Movement in Politics for the Development of Madagascar). The Plan of Action was launched on 26 January 2009 in Antananarivo at an event attended by 80 participants from Antananarivo, Fianarantsoa, Toamasina, Antsiranana, Mahajanga and Toliara.