Photo courtesy
Chris Hornibrook and Subash Chhetri tend to his vibrant garden near the roundabout past Bishop’s University, showcasing sustainable farming techniques that form the foundation of the Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival project
Hornibrook champions sustainable farming for Madagascar’s revival
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Lennoxville resident Chris Hornibrook is spearheading a mission to transform agriculture in Madagascar, one of the world’s most food-insecure nations. Through the “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project, Hornibrook, in partnership with Christian-based organizations ImpactHope and Foundations for Farming International (FfF), aims to train one million small-scale farmers by 2028, combating hunger and fostering self-sufficiency.
“I met the leaders of Madagascar’s food security program in South Africa in early 2024,” Hornibrook recounted. “They’ve been tasked by the president to feed the nation in four years. Partnering with FfF was a natural fit.”
A local connection with global impact
Hornibrook’s journey into sustainable farming began in 2010, following a sabbatical in Africa where he witnessed FfF’s innovative agricultural practices firsthand. Upon returning to Canada, his family initiated a local garden project, which eventually grew into a broader vision. What started with two refugee students at Bishop’s University planting a garden now thrives as a community initiative, managed by a local women’s centre and supported by volunteers.
“None of us would be here without those six inches of topsoil,” he said. “The soil is life, and the soul—our overall well-being—is deeply connected to it. It’s about creating spaces where people can get their hands dirty, have meaningful conversations, and feel healthier.”
Hornibrook’s passion for soil health is evident in his advocacy for natural farming methods. “We avoid pesticides and fertilizers, relying on compost and zero tillage,” he explained. “This helps keep the soil alive and fertile, producing amazing food.”
Training farmers to transform communities
The “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project focuses on training 100 farmers who will each teach others, creating a multiplier effect that could transform the nation’s agricultural landscape. Hornibrook emphasized the critical role of local trainers in ensuring the project’s success. “We’re raising $250,000 over four years to support trainers handpicked for their excellence. These trainers deliver the knowledge and inspire others to do the same.”
The training includes foundational agricultural techniques, such as proper seed management, spacing, and soil preservation. Hornibrook highlighted the challenges faced by Madagascar’s farmers. “In the past, seeds weren’t planted on time or at the right depth. Weed management was poor, and soil wasn’t protected properly,” he said. “Foundations for Farming has been teaching farmers for 40 years to address these gaps.”
Hornibrook is particularly inspired by the initiative’s emphasis on sustainability and empowerment. “The trainers don’t just teach; they build relationships with the farmers. It’s about creating long-term resilience and independence.”
Personal commitment and broader goals
To ensure transparency and build trust, Hornibrook plans to visit Madagascar personally. “I’ve been to Africa numerous times, but this will be my first trip to Madagascar,” he said. “With donor suspicion and concerns about corruption, I feel it’s important to see things firsthand—meet the farmers, the government officials, and the people behind the project.”
Hornibrook hopes this trip will strengthen donor confidence and kickstart local fundraising efforts. Additionally, he envisions organizing trips for donors to Madagascar, allowing them to witness the impact of their contributions. “It’s about building connections—not just funding a project but investing in the people and the nation,” he said.
The project’s name, “Soul & Soil Revival,” reflects its holistic approach. “Soil represents life, while soul refers to our overall well-being,” Hornibrook explained. “This philosophy is universal, whether in Madagascar or here in Canada. It’s about regeneration and healing—of both land and people.”
Lessons from local initiatives
Hornibrook’s work in the Eastern Townships serves as a model for what can be achieved through sustainable practices. At a demonstration garden in the region, volunteers practice regenerative gardening, learning techniques that emphasize soil health and natural farming. “Even here, we face challenges with food security and rising costs,” he said. “But by working together, we can grow healthy food and build stronger communities.”
The garden has also served as a site for educational collaborations, including with Bishop’s University and Agriculture Canada. “We’ve hosted everything from arts classes to climate literature studies,” Hornibrook shared. “It’s a space for learning, connecting, and creating.”
Hornibrook’s long-term vision extends beyond Madagascar. “During World War II, people grew ‘victory gardens’ to support the war effort,” he said. “I believe we need a similar movement today, with small-scale gardens everywhere—even on apartment balconies.”
An invitation to join
Hornibrook invites others to get involved, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply learning about sustainable farming. Volunteers at the local garden receive training and garden space, enjoying the harvest at the end of the season. For donors, the Madagascar project offers a unique opportunity to sponsor a farmer and build a relationship with their family.
“This project is about sharing a vision across Canada and beyond,” he said. “Together, we can sow the seeds of hope and cultivate a brighter future.”
For more information, visit ImpactHope’s website or contact their team directly.