These stories highlight concrete results from our field activities. They show how communities, local teams, and partners contribute together to conservation efforts.
Fishing regulations at Lake Tseny
SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN THE FISHING INDUSTRY
The Damba Menarambo (Paretroplus menarambo) is a fish species native to Lake Tseny, currently facing the threat of extinction due to overexploitation and unsustainable fishing practices.
To ensure its preservation, Madagasikara Voakajy has implemented measures to protect this species. In 2024, 63 regulated nets were distributed to volunteer fishermen. These nets were assembled by the fishermen themselves under the supervision of Madagasikara Voakajy and the Port-Bergé District Fishing District to adhere to fishing standards.
An experiment conducted in 2023 revealed that the use of unregulated nets heightened the risk of capturing this critically endangered species. Regulated nets are more selective, aiding in the preservation of fishery resources while sustaining the economic activities of fishermen. Fishermen have pledged to utilize these nets and engage i monitoring the outcomes. Ultimately, this initiative aspires to promote these fishing practices and motivate other fishermen to adopt similar methods, thereby enhancing the protection of the lake and its resources.
A source of income for local communities
BAOBAB TRANSFORMATION IN MENAB
The baobab processing activity was launched in 2023. It has enabled local populations to diversify their sources of income. In 2024, production reached 150 kg of baobab powder marketed nationally. This powder is prized for its nutritional properties, particularly its richness in vitamins and minerals.
Three groups of Vondron'Olona Ifotony (VOI), or grassroots communities, were trained in baobab fruit harvesting and processing techniques. Through this training, these communities learned how to process baobab fruit into powder.
The profits generated by baobab powder motivate communities to protect the trees. This sector motivates them to restore the forest by planting young baobabs to ensure the sustainability of the resource. In addition, part of the income generated by this transformation is allocated directly to the grassroots community fund to support natural resource management in their areas. The valorization of the baobab is thus directly linked to the conservation of this biodiversity.
This year, the valorization is not limited to the transformation of the baobab. Madagasikara Voakajy, with the local community, has integrated two new species of fruits into its program. Tamarind is transformed into jam, while oil is extracted from the marula. These initiatives aim to diversify the valorization sectors in the intervention area, further strengthening the livelihoods of local communities.
Economic support in Ambatondrazaka through community savings groups
COMMUNITY CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABLE GOVERNANCE
Prior to the establishment of community savings groups in Ambatondrazaka, Madagasikara Voakajy initiated an awareness campaign. These groups, known as VSLAs (Village Savings and Loan Associations), enable community members to collectively save and access small loans. Each member consistently contributes to a shared fund, which can subsequently be utilized for micro-credits. This initiative empowered the community to form its inaugural savings groups, facilitating improved income management with the assistance of Madagasikara Voakajy. The success of these groups prompted the community to seek the formation of additional groups in other villages in 2024.
Madagasikara Voakajy extends beyond the mere protection of biodiversity. The organization has empowered communities to enhance their economic resilience and improve their living conditions through tangible and effective initiatives. In Ambatondrazaka, the establishment of 15 community savings groups has signified a transformative shift for the residents.
Two hundred beneficiary households were thus able to invest in local projects or finance essential needs, such as their children's education. This initiative, endorsed by local leaders, contributes to enhancing the economic independence of households while fostering sustainable opportunities for the community.
In 2025, Madagasikara Voakajy intends to broaden this initiative to additional intervention areas, specifically targeting the communities residing near Lake Tseny in the Port-Bergé District.
A treasure in peril, an urgent call to act
MANGABE-RANOMENA-SAHASAROTRA PROTECTED AREA
The forest of the Mangabe Protected Area is disappearing at an alarming rate. Since 2021, 3,760 hectares have been destroyed. In 2023 alone, 2,550 hectares were lost. This represents an annual loss of 7.2%. If nothing is done, the forest could vanish completely within 10 years. Ecological consequences will appear much sooner: some vital ecosystem functions could cease in as little as 3 years.
This disappearance threatens a unique biodiversity. The golden mantella frog, an iconic species, is rapidly losing its habitat. Ten lemur species, as well as Pronk’s geck, classified as critically endangered, are also at risk. The human impacts are just as severe. Illegal settlements are driving deforestation and creating tensions on the ground. Meanwhile, local communities are losing vital resources: drinking water, medicinal plants, and cultural landmarks.
Faced with this emergency, Madagasikara Voakajy brought together local communities to co-develop immediate solutions. This meeting raised awareness about the scale of illegal settlements. More importantly, it marked a turning point: all stakeholders recognized the urgent need to enforce the law. In collaboration with authorities, we strengthened patrols, supported local governance, and raised awareness among local populations to halt the destruction. This fieldwork marks the beginning of a collective effort to save Mangabe.
Jaomamy: Water, source of solidarity and hope
Jaomamy, 45, married with three children, chairs the water management committee in Antsisikala, in the Bobaomby region. The construction of a well in his village marked a turning point for his community.
"The construction of this well has transformed our community. Before, there were internal conflicts within our community, but today, thanks to this project, we have found common ground. The well has allowed us to strengthen solidarity within the village. More importantly, this infrastructure plays a key role in preserving our environment."
This project, supported by Madagasikara Voakajy, goes even further: it now supplies a nursery center intended to reforest the surrounding land. By combining access to drinking water, forest restoration and social cohesion, Jaomamy and his committee illustrate the strength of the link between community well-being and environmental protection.
Salima: Baobabs, a treasure to safeguard
Salima, a mother of nine and a member of the Vondron'Olona Ifotony (VOI), or grassroots communities, "Mitsinjo ny Ho Avy" in Bepeha, has discovered in the baobabs a source of income and hope.
"Our baobabs have become a significant asset for us. Since we learned to appreciate these trees through the processing of their fruits, they enable us to generate income for our families. This is why we are very diligent about their conservation. Today, we recognize how vital it is to protect them, as they provide us with an opportunity to improve our lives while preserving our natural heritage."
Through Madagasikara Voakajy, VOI members have established a dedicated savings bank, financed by generated income. This community fund supports sustainable initiatives and ensures the financial security of its members. In addition to processing, Salima and her VOI are actively engaged in the restoration of baobabs, thereby integrating economic development with ecological preservation to secure a promising future for their community.
Rafifaliana Lovasoa Efissiane: Rediscovering the power of words
At 30, Rafifaliana Lovasoa Efissiane, a mother of two living in Andazoana, has seen her life transformed by the literacy classes organized by Madagasikara Voakajy.
"I am very happy because now I can read and write, even if it is not perfect yet. Before, I never had this chance. Today, I am learning new things and knowledge. What makes me most proud is that I can finally write my own name."
Like Rafifaliana, 122 beneficiaries, including 91 women, have participated in these courses, paving the way for greater autonomy and better involvement in community management. By acquiring these basic skills, they not only strengthen their self- confidence, but also their ability to actively engage in conservation and sustainable development projects.