Twenty years of commitment, twenty years of leadership and knowledge sharing. To mark two decades of action, Madagasikara Voakajy (MV) organized a series of local celebrations across three of its key intervention sites: Morondava, Bobaomby, and Moramanga to honor the communities who, day after day, protect Madagascar’s unique natural resources.
In Morondava, the celebration took place in Betankilotra, a symbol of community autonomy. The community-based (VOI) now manages an independent fund generated from the valorization of baobab products, enabling the community to finance its own conservation initiatives. This perfectly illustrates the year’s theme: “20 years of empowering leaders in conservation.”
In Bobaomby, Diana region, the focus was on knowledge sharing and inspiring the next generation. Students learned about the importance of protecting baobabs and lemurs, community-based members strengthened their technical skills, and the community collectively defined its priority conservation actions.
Finally, in Andazaona (Moramanga), within the Mangabe Ranomena Sahasarotra Protected Area, the celebration paid tribute to community leaders trained by Madagasikara Voakajy. Certificates of recognition were awarded to honor their contribution to the sustainable management of natural resources and local governance.
By honoring its past, MV is preparing for the future, one of more inclusive, resilient, and community-led conservation, driven by the leaders of today and tomorrow.
