2013 Sustainability Report - Ambatovy
26
Cultural Heritage
Ambatovy supported the publication of
A Look at Cultural Heritage,
a book filled with archaeological discoveries made in
Madagascar during Ambatovy’s construction phase. The book was authored by Professor Jean-Aimé Rakotoarisoa, an
archaeologist from the University of Antananarivo, who also led the archaeological work and cultural surveys. Almost 5,000
artifacts were discovered during the survey and will be
showcased in an information centre in Toamasina that will
hold one of the largest collections of artifacts in Madagascar.
The centre is expected to open its doors to the public in
2014.
Following the book’s release, Ambatovy supported a week-
long book tour, which included presentations by Professor
Rakotoarisoa, allowing local communities and students to
explore their country’s rich history and interact with one of
Madagascar’s top archaeological experts. Download the
book from
.
Emergency Response
To ensure adequate response in emergencies, we use management systems, policies and plans to intervene quickly and
effectively in unforeseen situations. Responsible teams are also trained with simulation exercises.
Ambatovy was recognized as one of the best humanitarian actors in the private sector for 2012-2013 by the United Nations and
the Government of Madagascar during an international humanitarian event held in Madagascar’s capital city of Antananarivo.
Ambatovy, along with nine companies operating in Madagascar, was rewarded for its commitment to providing emergency aid
and disaster relief during the cyclone season.
Resettlement
During the construction phase, 261 households living at the sites to be used for the plant site and tailings management facility
were relocated. These families were resettled to two villages: Marovato and Vohitrambato.
Since their creation, Ambatovy has provided continuous support to the people of Marovato and Vohitrambato to help them
adapt to life in their new villages. Our intention is that the resettlement communities will be better off over time as a result of
resettlement – according to their own assessment and external expert review.
In 2013, Ambatovy continued to work on finalizing land titles for residents of Vohitrambato and by the end of 2013 had finalized
titles for 70% of the households.
Compensation
Careful, long-term measures have been taken to ensure that communities and individuals receive proper compensation
for income reduction or affected assets. Ambatovy aims to mitigate adverse social and economic impacts by providing
compensation for loss and to restore the livelihoods and standards of living of impacted persons. Payment in cash and in kind
continued for people affected by construction activities.
Where possible, we also provide compensation in forms other than cash so that long-term goals and livelihood improvements
can be achieved. For example, since 2010, over 13,000 people, including people affected by the project and demobilized
workers, have completed agricultural training at one of the three training centres located in Toamasina, Moramanga and
Brickaville.
