Madagascar is transitioning from crisis response to proactive drought management. At COP17 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), held in Ulan Bator, Mongolia, the country presented its Drought Investment Plan. Developed with support from the Global Mechanism, it aims to better direct funding toward actions that sustainably strengthen vulnerable territories and populations. The international conference runs from August 17-28, 2026 under the theme "Restore the Land, Restore Hope." It brings together representatives from 197 Convention parties, scientists, business leaders, civil society organizations, and local communities. Drought resilience features prominently in discussions, including a ministerial dialogue on August 25 in which Madagascar participated. The Malagasy plan focuses on three main intervention areas. The first addresses ecosystem and forest restoration, including rehabilitation of degraded watersheds and mangrove preservation. The second covers agriculture and water, featuring modernized irrigation systems, agroecological practices, and short-cycle seeds resistant to harsh climate conditions. The third pillar centers on farmers and communities, aiming to reduce their dependence on repeated humanitarian aid by building capacity before the next drought. Environment and Sustainable Development Minister Luk Aristide Nolave Andriatsihala emphasized the need for upstream investment in populations, particularly women and youth. This approach aligns with COP17's international debates on preventive financing. Participants are examining mechanisms to mobilize more capital for resilience, water infrastructure, and land restoration. A new investment facility dedicated to drought resilience was among initiatives presented in Ulan Bator. Madagascar assembled a delegation combining ministry officials, scientists, civil society, and young negotiators, including researcher Irinomenjanahary Randrianjafy and Youth Negotiators Academy members Barkat and Riantsoa.