International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2026: Spotlight on Fanomezantsoa’s Impact in Madagascar

Fanomezantsoa in a Multiple Harvest Rice Nursery. (Credit: AfricaRice) 

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated every 11 February, recognizes the vital contributions of women in STEM and promotes equal access and participation in scientific fields. Marking its continued impact in 2026 under the theme “Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls,” the observance highlights the importance of collaboration in breaking barriers and building inclusive scientific ecosystems.  At Africa Rice Center (AfricaRice), women researchers are leading transformative work in rice science — strengthening food security, enhancing climate resilience, and supporting sustainable agricultural systems across Africa — demonstrating how empowering women in science drives innovation and improves livelihoods for farming communities. In this celebration, we bring forward one of our own, Rasoazanany Fanomezantsoa, the very first nationally recruited staff at the time of AfricaRice’s in Madagascar. She joined AfricaRice in 2015 as a breeder within the Genetic Diversity and Improvement (GDI) Program.  

Fanomezantsoa (“Fano”) has consistently demonstrated excellence, dedication, and leadership in advancing the rice breeding program in Madagascar. As a breeder, her work has significantly strengthened research quality, capacity building, and team collaboration within the organization. 

In terms of key scientific and technical contributions, Fano has contributed to the release of 13 rice varieties since 2015, directly supporting improved productivity and food security in Madagascar. She has also acted in strengthening breeding accuracy by improving field protocols and germplasm data quality, enhancing heritability estimates and enabling more precise selection of breeding lines. As a team leader, Fano demonstrated strong problem-solving and resourcefulness, by proactively identifying potential challenges and implements practical solutions, ensuring efficiency and high performance in research operations. "During my university years, I chose to work in the rice sector (which is why I worked at the Ministry of Agriculture, the SOC, the FOFIFA, and CFAMMA). I am passionate about research; it's not just a life mission, but also a way to contribute and help everyone I can (farmers, seed producers-whether individuals, groups or private sector). With the dissemination of red rice, I was highly satisfied, but I felt the bar was even lower. I am aiming even higher, with more impact." explained Fano on her motivations about contributing to AfricaRice mission in Madagascar. 

Fanomezantsoa (in white cap on the right) discussing with a local woman farmer. (Credit: AfricaRice)

Fano loves sharing knowledge. She has trained more than 10 student interns, contributing to the development of the next generation of agricultural scientists, built the capacity of more than 350 seed growers across various regions of Madagascar, strengthening the national seed system and promoting adoption of improved varieties. She actively shares knowledge with colleagues and partners, fostering learning and professional growth within and beyond AfricaRice. 

Recognized as an outstanding team player with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, Fano facilitates productive team discussions, encourages diverse perspectives, and helps build consensus on complex issues. Fano’s contributions extend beyond technical achievements. Her commitment to quality research, farmer empowerment, teamwork, and institutional excellence has significantly enhanced the performance and impact of AfricaRice’s breeding program in Madagascar. Her resilience, leadership, and passion for agricultural innovation continue to inspire colleagues and partners alike.