Facing the growing degradation of marine and coastal ecosystems, the Malagasy government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) officially launched the project "Ranomasina Madio sy Salama" (Clean and Healthy Ocean) on July 31 in Toliara. Implemented in the Anosy and Atsimo Andrefana regions, this program aims to reduce land-based pollution that degrades marine environments and accelerates coastal deterioration, while improving living conditions for local populations.
Financed with 11.6 million dollars by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the project places communities at the heart of its action. In total, 56,000 people will directly benefit from expected outcomes through improved income, strengthened resilience to environmental changes, and promotion of a green economy.
Key actions include the creation of 3,000 hectares of new terrestrial protected areas, strengthened management of already protected spaces, establishment and improvement of 4,000 hectares of marine protected areas, and restoration of 25,000 hectares of degraded terrestrial ecosystems and forests.
Presided over by the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Nolave Luck Aristide Andriatsihala, in the presence of UNDP Resident Coordinator in Madagascar, Edward Christow, the launch ceremony brought together national and local authorities in Toliara. Through "Ranomasina Madio sy Salama," partners aim to demonstrate that protecting natural resources is an essential lever for sustainable development for coastal communities in southern Madagascar.