Launched by Ravinala Airports and Cétamada, the exhibition "Observe Without Disturbing" inaugurated on September 9, 2026 at Antananarivo International Airport, highlights Madagascar's marine megafauna, balancing ecological wealth with economic benefits for coastal communities.

Behind the conservation principle of "Observe Without Disturbing" lies an economic question for coastal communities. Officially launched on September 9, 2026 at Antananarivo International Airport, the exhibition, supported by Ravinala Airports and the Cétamada association, showcases the richness of Madagascar's marine megafauna and the importance of its preservation.

Whales, whale sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and dugongs are among the species that attract visitors to Madagascar's coasts each year. According to Cétamada, over forty species of marine megafauna can be observed around Madagascar, including twenty-five whale species. The whale shark, reaching nearly 15 meters in length, is among the emblematic species of this biodiversity.

But these animals represent more than natural wealth. Their presence constitutes a revenue source for coastal territories. Nosy Be, Sainte-Marie, Tuléar, and Taolagnaro host tourism activities linked to marine wildlife observation. Sea excursions, guiding, accommodation, dining, and transport all benefit from the appeal of these species.

A socio-economic study conducted in Nosy Be on whale sharks estimated that a single individual could generate approximately 40,000 euros in economic returns during its stay in the region. This example demonstrates that biodiversity protection can have concrete economic dimensions for local populations.

For Dr Anjara Saloma, president of Cétamada, this reality reinforces the need to regulate marine megafauna observation. After fifteen years working in marine conservation in Madagascar, she now aims to position the country internationally as a leader in responsible marine megafauna observation. The challenge is to make observation tourism compatible with species and habitat protection.

The exhibition naturally finds its place in the airport. By welcoming Malagasy and international travelers, Antananarivo's International Terminal becomes an awareness point before their arrival at coastal destinations. Visitors can discover species present in Malagasy waters and understand behaviors for observing them without disturbance.

For Daniel Lefebvre, general director of Ravinala Airports, this approach reflects shared responsibility. "Admiring nature is a privilege, but one that gives us responsibility," he stated at the exhibition's launch.

The collaboration between Ravinala Airports and Cétamada extends beyond this initiative. Since 2024, the "Observe Without Disturbing" video campaign has been broadcast in departure and arrival halls at Antananarivo and Nosy Be airports.

Through this initiative, marine protection transcends environmental frameworks alone. Preserving whales, turtles, and whale sharks also means preserving tourism activities and revenues surrounding their presence. Responsible observation emerges as a means of making marine biodiversity a sustainable heritage serving coastal communities.