In Madagascar’s rapidly growing textile sector, ACTUAL TEXTILES stands out not only for the quality of its products but also for its exemplary social commitment. On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, celebrated each year on May 31, the company launched a unique initiative to raise awareness among its employees about the dangers of tobacco and to promote a healthier work environment.
Human Engagement Within Madagascar’s Textile Sector
ACTUAL TEXTILES, a flagship company in Madagascar’s textile industry, used this international day as an opportunity to engage directly with its employees and gather their testimonies. An internal survey revealed that male employees are the most affected by smoking, with an average consumption of 3 to 10 cigarettes per day. This represents a daily expense of 900 to 4,000 ariary—up to 120,000 ariary per month—which is equivalent to 10 to 15% of their monthly salary, literally “burned to ashes” because of tobacco.
But beyond the findings, there is a glimmer of hope: 68% of smokers surveyed expressed a sincere desire to quit. This is a powerful signal in a sector like Madagascar’s textile industry, where work rhythms can be intense and daily stress is high.
Testimonies, Posters, and Solidarity in the Textile Industry
The collected testimonies were displayed on a large board set up in the ACTUAL TEXTILES factory canteen on May 30, 2025—a central hub of life for employees. These stories from smokers were accompanied by preventive messages addressed to non-smokers, in a spirit of sharing and solidarity. Awareness posters and practical advice for quitting smoking were also distributed across all production workshops and common areas of the company.
This type of initiative shows that Madagascar’s textile industry is not just about economic performance—it’s also about valuing people and safeguarding the physical and mental health of those who keep it alive every day.
Voices That Resonate: Messages of Hope from Textile Workers in Madagascar
At the heart of this awareness campaign, some employee testimonies stood out and made a lasting impression, reflecting strong personal commitment and a collective will for change within the ACTUAL TEXTILES team. These emotionally charged messages of hope show that behind every smoker, there is a story, a struggle, and often a deep desire to break free.
Elie, security guard: “I smoke, but I want to stop. Knowing that my company supports me changes everything.”
Patrick, cutting Manager: “Starting today, I’m reducing my consumption. My goal: to quit completely within three months.”
Herintsoa, finishing supervisor: “I often smoke to cope with work stress. But I’ve realized it’s not a real solution—it’s a danger to my health.”
Tsiry, machine operator: “Seeing how much I spend each month on tobacco, I realize I could’ve saved for something else.”
A Strong Vision Led by ACTUAL TEXTILES Management
For Mrs. Mezbine HIRIDJEE and Mr. Ilann HIRIDJEE, the company’s leaders, this initiative is part of a long-term strategy:
“At ACTUAL TEXTILES, we firmly believe our responsibility goes beyond textile production. As a key player in Madagascar’s textile sector, we have a duty to support our employees in their health and personal development. World No Tobacco Day gave us a chance to listen to those who want change and offer them real support.”
Textile in Madagascar: A Catalyst for Social Transformation
Through this initiative, ACTUAL TEXTILES once again demonstrates that it is possible to combine industrial excellence with social responsibility. The company is becoming an inspiring model in Madagascar’s textile sector, proving that this industry can also be a driver of human and sustainable change.
By integrating preventive actions into its internal practices, ACTUAL TEXTILES is helping to build a more mindful, supportive, and forward-looking textile industry in Madagascar. World No Tobacco Day has thus highlighted not only the challenges but also the opportunities for transformation within a vital sector for the country.
