The center was founded by Richard RAKOTOMALALA and Olga Lilia RAMAROMANDRAY, a couple deeply rooted in their community and guided by a strong sense of social responsibility. Originally, they had plans to open a restaurant and guesthouse in the area of Ambohibao Antehiroka, about 12 km from the capital. But witnessing the poverty, lack of education, and poor access to healthcare in the neighborhood changed their path forever.
The first steps were small but impactful. The center requested powdered milk to support children suffering from malnutrition. This led to a grassroots outreach program, offering warm milk, weighing sessions, vaccinations, and deworming treatments to local children — in collaboration with their parents.
As more children were found roaming with their parents in landfill sites, the founders realized that access to education was critical. Many children had no access to public schools due to lack of documents or money. A request was made by local stakeholders (RAD) to begin schooling directly at the center.
The center was officially established and named Felana Maitso, meaning green leaf or young sprout, reflecting the hope and growth it stood for. That same year, it welcomed over 70 children, who began their first formal lessons within its modest walls.
The center was officially recognized by the Ministry of Population, the Condition of Women and Children on March 30, 1999, as a non-governmental organization (NGO) working in the socio-medical sector. An official operating license followed in 2003. 🎉
Felana Maitso evolved into a multifunctional support center, offering:
– Shelter for orphans and abandoned children
– Educational access for vulnerable children from nearby neighborhoods
– A canteen that fed students daily
– Support for single mothers and women in distress
After the passing of co-founder Richard RAKOTOMALALA, the center was led by his wife, Olga RAKOTOMALALA, affectionately known by children and locals as “Neny” — meaning mother in Malagasy.
Today, the Felana Maitso Center continues to welcome:
– Children from 0 to 18 years old, many of whom are orphans or abandoned
– Young single mothers seeking shelter and support
– Students from underprivileged neighborhoods
Despite limited resources, the center remains a space of safety, dignity, and opportunity — driven by deep human values and a community that believes every child deserves a future.