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Sharing the results from prioritisation of actions, Ambodirotra village. Credit-Harilefitra Ratovo-Andrianarisoa

Closing a project in beauty, with inputs from local communities

The project “Enabling Youths to Lead Lemur Conservation in Eastern Madagascar” was a flagship initiative of Madagasikara Voakajy, in partnership with Mitsinjo Association, Money for Madagascar, and Label CBD Consulting. Running from November 2021 to June 2024, the project engaged 363 young people across 21 groups within and around three reserves in eastern Madagascar to become ambassadors for lemur conservation. The aim was to provide these youths with the knowledge and skills to practice environmentally friendly agriculture, raise awareness about lemur conservation, and promote sustainable development through strong leadership.

A key aspect of the project was its participatory approach, using the innovative “World Café” method for evaluation and feedback. One particularity of this method is to hear everyone’s voice for better improvement. This approach actively involved local communities and gathered valuable insights from various stakeholders, including the young participants, their families, and others in the community. In total, 219 youths (109 women) and 717 community members (351 women) participated in this approach. During these sessions, held in 13 villages, the youths shared their experiences in adopting sustainable farming practices, contributing to lemur conservation, and improving community well-being.

The feedback revealed the community's appreciation for the participatory approach and Madagasikara Voakajy’s accountability. The efforts to involve women and reduce deforestation through patrols, reforestation, and awareness activities were particularly valued. When the project ended in June 2024, it underscored the importance of active listening and inclusiveness in conservation initiatives. This experience is hoped to inspire similar approaches in other projects to ensure sustainable and equitable conservation.

Written by Harilefitra Ratovo-Andrianarisoa, Julie Hanta Razafimanahaka, and Voahirana Claudia Randriamamonjy. For more information on this Darwin Initiative Main project 28-009, led by Madagasikara Voakajy, please click here.