Conserving biodiversity requires more than protecting natural habitats. It also depends on creating sustainable opportunities for the communities who live alongside these ecosystems. At Madagasikara Voakajy, strengthening local livelihoods through the development of community-based value chains is a key approach to ensuring that conservation and local development progress together.

As part of this commitment, Madagasikara Voakajy supported three cooperatives from communities surrounding the Mangabe Protected Area to participate in the “Foire Ben’ny Firaisan-kina 2026”, organized by the Rural Commune of Ambohibary, in the Moramanga District. This local fair brought together farmers, producers, and artisans from the commune, creating a space to promote local products, encourage exchanges, and strengthen connections between producers and potential markets.

The participation of these cooperatives was an opportunity to showcase their products directly to visitors, better understand market expectations, and explore new opportunities for selling their products. Beyond product promotion, the event also contributed to strengthening the capacity of cooperative members, particularly in communication, customer relations, and commercial exchanges.

The cooperatives were the main actors of this initiative. Their participation reflects the importance of supporting local communities as key partners in sustainable development and conservation. Madagasikara Voakajy’s role was to provide support and facilitate access to opportunities that can help these groups improve their economic resilience and strengthen their value chains.

Developing sustainable income-generating activities is an essential part of reducing pressure on natural resources. When communities have stronger and more stable livelihoods, they are better positioned to engage in the long-term protection of forests and biodiversity. By investing in local capacities and market opportunities, conservation efforts can become more inclusive and create lasting benefits for both people and nature.

The experience at the Foire Ben’ny Firaisan-kina 2026 demonstrates the importance of creating bridges between community initiatives and economic opportunities. Supporting local producers and cooperatives is not only about improving livelihoods; it is also about building stronger partnerships for conservation.

Through these actions, Madagasikara Voakajy continues to promote an approach where empowered communities become active contributors to the protection of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity.