In late October, 120 world leaders and nearly 40,000 representatives from civil society, business, and non-profit communities registered to attend the COP26 conference in Glasgow, focusing the world’s attention on a common global threat – climate change.  Madagascar is already experiencing increased temperatures, major flooding caused by violent cyclones and intense rainfall which devastate cities and farmlands, and more frequent droughts partially due to the changing climate.  In fact, in 2018, according to the Global Climate Risk Index, Madagascar ranked fourth among the nations most affected by extreme weather events associated with climate change.  Deforestation, which leads to lack of precipitation and increased temperatures, is another driver of droughts and localized temperature increases in many parts of the country.  Cutting down large swaths of forest can reduce soil moisture, which then negatively affects the ability of farmers to successfully grow crops, leading to economic insecurity.  In addition to these negative effects on agriculture and livelihoods, deforestation also contributes to pandemics.  By removing habitat for wild animals, humans are more likely to interact with wild species, setting the stage for potential spillover events and disease transmission.  Finally, by burning and cutting down forests, carbon emissions are released, which then exacerbates climate change – contributing to the vicious cycle of increased temperatures, floods, drought, further deforestation, and social and economic hardship.

Drought, Migration, and Destruction of Protected Areas – A Race to the Bottom

In western Madagascar, the dry forest within the Menabe Antimena protected area declined from 100,000 to 50,000 hectares from 2008 to 2020.  The protected area has come under pressure from slash and burn agricultural methods and illegal commercial maize cultivation, especially as migrants escaping food insecurity and economic hardship in southern Madagascar have moved into the region.  These migrants leave behind their native villages and ancestral homes where agricultural lands are threatened by years of ongoing drought.  Scientists predict that at the current rate of deforestation, the entire dry forest and its unique endemic species in the Menabe Antimena protected area could be lost in as little as four years.  These same practices have led to the destruction of other protected areas in Madagascar and contributed to drought and food insecurity in the fragile desert ecoregion of southern Madagascar. This happens because the unique, native flora of southern Madagascar is specially adapted to the arid environment and poor soil that doesn’t retain water.  When the southern forests are cut and the native flora destroyed, there is little to anchor the soil which is blown or washed away leaving exposed sand and rock.  This exposed sand is picked up by the wind creating sandstorms that smother crops, leaving people without food and livelihood. 

Restoring Forests – A Pathway to a Sustainable, Green Economy

To break this cycle of deforestation and to restore the environment, trees need to be planted and existing and new forests better protected.  Regenerating natural forests not only stores carbon, but also mitigates against temperature increases and erratic rainfall at the local level.  Restoring forests rebuilds water tables and soil, providing opportunities for agroforestry and sustainable agriculture.  Rebuilding the forests’ natural capital provides an opportunity to help communities diversify their small-scale economies, mitigate against the impacts of environmental degradation, and support Madagascar’s Climate Change Nationally Determined Contributions from the COP26.

Ecotourism is Madagascar’s international brand and one of its green economy drivers.  Restoring natural forests and protecting intact ecosystems provides important habitats for wildlife as well as an economic lifeline for community-supported ecotourism.  Once the COVID-19 epidemic is under control and tourists feel safe to return to Madagascar, there is enormous potential for Madagascar to be one of the international leaders in ecotourism by demonstrating sustainable, “climate friendly” practices.  Madagascar has a wide range of landscapes, micro-climates, and endemic species.  For example, as an alternative to the “Big 5” large animal safaris in South Africa, Madagascar could create ecotourism circuits to see the “Big 25” lemurs. 

Scaling up sustainable ecotourism is an economic opportunity with the potential to raise the country out of poverty in the same way that ecotourism supports the economies of Botswana, Kenya, and Costa Rica.  Tackling Madagascar’s dependence on charcoal is an economic opportunity for green technologies to address fuel needs in Madagascar’s villages and cities.  The government has a ReGreening Madagascar Initiative, which is a good step towards restoring vegetation cover.  Although there is a need to plant trees everywhere to restore the environment and break the cycle of deforestation, tree-planting cannot be equated with growing and protecting forests.  The fast-growing eucalyptus and acacia species often chosen for reforestation projects are meant to meet short term demand for timber and fuel, and do not serve as replacement for Madagascar’s forest resources rich in endemic species, nor do they count toward Madagascar’s NDC for carbon sequestration.  Protecting existing forests while regenerating natural forests is critical to protecting biodiversity and mitigating against climate change.  These forests can also provide the backbone for a green economy based on ecotourism.  By protecting its remaining forest resources, Madagascar would not only preserve the nation’s unique and globally significant natural heritage, but also foster sustainable economic opportunities.

By Michelle Zjhra, Environment, Science, Technology, and Health Officer, U.S. Embassy in Madagascar and Comoros

The innovative approach, known locally as the “TSIRO Alliance”, will improve incomes of more than 2,000 rural farmers and plant more than 1.5 million trees.

ANTANANARIVO – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), on behalf of the American people, has launched a new $5.8 million, five-year, public-private partnership to strengthen Madagascar’s chocolate and spices industry, improve farmer livelihoods, and conserve biodiversity.

The partnership, called “TSIRO Alliance,” is committed to supporting more than 2,000 farmers in 30 communities and planting more than 1.5 million trees over the next five years to support agroforestry systems and biodiversity. The TSIRO Alliance represents a HEARTH Global Development Alliance, an initiative where USAID and the private sector work together to identify and solve development challenges through mutually beneficial partnerships.

“USAID recognizes that the private sector can be a powerful force in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and advancing opportunities that improve the well-being of people and communities,” USAID Madagascar Mission Director John Dunlop said.

The TSIRO Alliance unites local and international private companies and non-profit organizations working in the fine chocolate and spices industry. These partners include Catholic Relief Services (CRS), the Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA), Beyond Good, Guittard Chocolate, Akesson’s Organic, and the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Fund (HCP). Centre ValBio and the Bristol Zoo will serve as technical partners.

The initiative will have a significant impact on farmer livelihoods. (Photo by U.S. Embassy Madagascar)

“We all share the same goals of improving the economic situation of participating farmers, strengthening the entire process from cultivation through manufacturing to sales of Madagascar’s fine cacao and spice products, and supporting biodiversity in the unique ecosystems required to produce these crops,” CRS’s Jim Hazen said on behalf of the TSIRO Alliance.

Madagascar is home to a unique heirloom variety of cacao called criollo. This rare type of cacao is famous for its fruit flavor and has attracted the attention of many international fine chocolate companies. Criollo requires shade to grow, so the TSIRO Alliance will plant more than 1.5 million trees in the space between forest fragments in the Tsaratanana and Fandriana Vondorozo forest corridors. These areas will be used to produce cacao and spices in a mixed agroforestry system that addresses the TSIRO Alliance’s commitment to conserving biodiversity and the business ambitions of the fine chocolate industry while fulfilling.

“These agroforestry systems are a win-win,” Agathe Sector, USAID’s Sustainable Environment and Economic Development Office Director, said. “They conserve biodiversity by providing habitat for lemurs and other forest dwelling animal species, and they produce the conditions necessary for farmers to grow high quality cacao, which they can then sell to international buyers for a premium.”

Through this project, the U.S. government is showcasing its commitment to facilitating relationships between U.S. and Malagasy businesses. The partnership will also help bolster Madagascar’s underdeveloped cacao market while improving local economies and conserving biodiversity. Moreover, it will also provide farmers with financial literacy training to improve their capacity to negotiate with buyers, skills that will help farmers earn a fair price for their products.

Since 2013, the U.S. government has invested nearly $60 million in programs to strengthen natural resource governance, improve livelihoods and support biodiversity conservation. The U.S. government works side-by-side with the Government of Madagascar and the Malagasy people, like ‘mpirahalahy mianala’, to secure the nation’s natural resources and biodiversity and promote sustainable environmental practices that will help protect its environmental heritage and economic future.

Source: Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo / USAID Madagascar

Part of President Biden’s commitment to purchase 500 million vaccine doses for low- and lower-middle-income countries, these Pfizer vaccines have been proven safe and effective against COVID-19 and all known variants.

ANTANANARIVO – Today, 398,970 doses of the safe and effective Pfizer COVID-19 arrived in Madagascar. These vaccines were delivered via the COVAX facility and are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s global effort to rapidly increase vaccine coverage and end this pandemic.

“Widespread vaccination is the most important step we can take to ensure a return to normal life as soon as possible,” United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Madagascar Mission Director John Dunlop said in an arrival ceremony at Ivato Airport. “Please do what you can and get vaccinated,” he added.

This is the third vaccine donation to Madagascar from the American people. The United States donated 302,750 doses of the Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine in July and an additional 336,000 Johnson&Johnson doses in October from the U.S. domestic supply.

“The United States will be the world’s arsenal of vaccines in our shared fight against this virus,” President Biden said in a June 3 statement.

The United States is sharing vaccine doses with nearly all African countries to save lives and to lead the world in bringing an end to the pandemic. This effort is just one more example of our commitment to our African partners as we confront new waves of the pandemic.

In Madagascar, USAID has provided $5.1 million to support health care facilities and increase vaccine access as well as $2.5 million to assist with the delivery and rollout of vaccines, expand infectious disease testing, and provide personal protective equipment for health workers. The Peace Corps is also supporting the Government of Madagascar’s vaccination efforts by helping to vaccinate more than 25 percent of all eligible residents in the commune of Mantasoa.

The United States is working closely with the Government of Madagascar, like “mpirahalahy mianala,” to protect public health, and we will continue to do all we can to build a world that is safer and more secure against the threat of infectious disease.

Source: Press Release by US Embassy Antananarivo

ANTANANARIVO — The U.S. government and the Ministry of Public Health’s National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) have launched an indoor spraying campaign to control malaria that will protect 850,000 people in the Atsimo Andrefana and Ihorombe regions.

Malaria remains a serious threat to the lives of millions of Malagasy people, it keeps children from school and adults from work, and it is a major obstacle to development. Since the beginning of the year more than 450 people in Madagascar have died from malaria.

This underscores the importance of the annual indoor residual spraying (IRS) campaign, a collaborative effort between the U.S. government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), and the Ministry of Public Health’s NMCP. Indoor residual spraying applies insecticide, certified as safe for humans, to the walls and ceilings of homes and public buildings. Residual insecticides are effective for several months, killing mosquitoes that come into contact with the treated surfaces.

“The indoor residual spraying of insecticide to keep mosquitos out of homes is one of the key strategies we use to keep people safe from malaria,” U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy Hyatt said. “This is critical, life-saving work.The U.S. government is proud to stand side-by-side like “Mpirahalahy mianala” with the Malagasy people in the fight against malaria.”

The risks from this dangerous disease are considerably lowered when IRS is combined with other malaria control activities, such as sleeping under long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets, providing preventive treatment to pregnant women in high-risk districts, and quickly identifying and treating people who have malaria.

This year’s spraying campaign is just the latest in a series of recent U.S. government efforts, led by USAID and PMI, to protect the Malagasy people from malaria. In August this year, the U.S. government distributed more than 3.7 million mosquito bed nets to communities in 27 high transmission districts of Madagascar. In the past year the U.S. government has also donated more than 3.3 million malaria rapid diagnostic tests and 3.1 million courses of treatment to cure those who test positive for the disease.

The U.S. government is the largest single-country donor to Madagascar's health sector, providing $74.5 million in 2020 to fund USAID’s health activities, including $26 million for malaria prevention and treatment.

For 2021, the NMCP, in partnership with USAID and PMI and with technical and financial support from the PMI VectorLink project, will conduct an IRS campaign in five health districts in two regions of the country with high rates of malaria infection: Toliara II, Sakaraha, and Betioky Atsimo districts, which are in the Atsimo Andrefana region, and Ihosy and Iakora districts in the Ihorombe region.

The goal for 2021 is to spray at least 95 percent of homes in these five districts. The campaign will protect an estimated 850,000 people, including 34,000 pregnant women and 138,000 children under five years old. The program includes monthly monitoring to ensure treatments remain effective. All operations are performed in compliance with recommendations to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

Source: Press Release by U.S. Embassy Madagascar / USAID Madagascar

The single-shot Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, a donation from the American people, come as Madagascar opens its borders to international travel.

ANTANANARIVO – The U.S. government has donated 336,000 doses of the Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to Madagascar as part of the Biden Administration’s global effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic, mitigate its devastating social and economic impacts, and build back a world that is better prepared for future outbreaks. Following close collaboration between the United States, COVAX, and the African Union, these doses arrived at Ivato Airport on October 25.

“Widespread vaccinations make Madagascar and the world more secure against the threat of infectious disease,” U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy Hyatt said in a statement before the press.

”I urge people to take advantage of these vaccines. Get vaccinated. Protect yourself, your family, and your community. And we will overcome this pandemic together.” — Amy Hyatt

Today’s vaccine delivery represents the second bilateral donation to Madagascar from the American people. In July, the U.S. government donated 302,750 doses of the single-dose Johnson&Johnson COVID-19 vaccine as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to share U.S. vaccine supply with the world. Globally, the United States has already donated over 200 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to more than 100 countries – and President Biden has announced plans to donate 1.1 billion vaccines to countries in need.

“This is about our responsibility — our humanitarian obligation to save as many lives as we can — and our responsibility to our values. We’re going to help lead the world out of this pandemic, working alongside our global partners.” — President Biden.

The United States is sharing vaccine doses with nearly all African countries to save lives and to lead the world in bringing an end to the pandemic. This effort is just one more example of our commitment to our African partners as we confront new waves of the pandemic.

Government officials were present at Ivato airport today. (Photo by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo)

In Madagascar, the United States has worked closely with the government, like “mpirahalahy mianala,” to protect public health. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), on behalf of the American people, has provided $5.1 million to help support primary health care facilities and increase vaccine access; $2.5 million in emergency funding to support the delivery and rollout of vaccines, expand infectious disease testing, and provide personal protective equipment for front-line Malagasy health workers; and contributed $5 million to the Tosika Fameno cash transfer program to ensure vulnerable families in the most affected cities had enough to eat. The Peace Corps is also supporting the Government of Madagascar’s vaccination efforts.

The United States will continue to do all it can to build a world that is safer and more secure against the threat of infectious disease.

Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo.

11 Malagasy young leaders were selected to participate in the highly competitive Mandela Washington Fellowship this year. After having completed the program last summer, they share their experience during the six-week fellowship.

Alexandre MANAMAMONJY (Civic Engagement, University of Delaware)

It has been an honor to be part of the Mandela Washington Fellowship.  I had the chance to meet the finest young leaders from all over Africa.  Those encounters helped me extend my international network and I am confident it will enrich my professional life.  I learned so much, especially about women in Africa.  Through the many exchanges between Fellows and institute staff, I have gained incredible insights into the perception of women's rights through the lenses of intersectionality and cross-culturalism.  It was an opportunity to talk to the best of the best, and I was inspired by their words to improve my leadership skills.  I will continue fighting for girls' rights and wish to collaborate with others advocating for women’s rights.  I would like to be a role model for our youth namely for girls' access to education.

Heriniaina Zhita Irène ANDRIAMALALA (Public Management, Georgia State University)

The Mandela Washington Fellowship was a unique and enriching experience.  As a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop experiences in a country like the United States, it allowed me to deepen my knowledge and skills.  There I could grow as a leader.  It was also a great opportunity to connect with African and American leaders.  I got expert training on improving my self-confidence, having values, and directing actions towards sustainable goals and ethical behaviors.  These new skills will help strengthen my fight for land rights for vulnerable people in Madagascar.  As a civil servant, my principal role is to “serve” my country and my people.  So, I plan to be one of the key actors in the reform of Land Administration through policies of good governance in an inclusive framework for the benefit of the local population.

Henintsoa Daniel RAKOTOARISON (Public Management, Wayne State University)

Through the Mandela Washington Fellowship, I have had the life-changing chance to be ONE with other exceptional youths from across Africa.  The knowledge we received from each other was incommensurate both in terms of technical knowledge but also in terms of essential life skills such as adaptability, resilience, and the ability to capitalize on diversity.  If one theme emerged from our sharing, it was the principle of “Leading through Strength.”  Not only were we encouraged to find and explore our strengths, but also to see strengths first in others.  As a Child and Youth Care (CYC) worker, this Fellowship has created so many ambitions in me.  I would like to partner with influential Childcare institutions and Government bodies to rethink childcare and design services that are inclusive and centered on child development through awareness-raising, advocacy, and advisory work.

 James Michael Stuart RAKOTOMALALA (Business, Clark Atlanta University)

Thanks to the Mandela Washington Fellowship, I have learned skills that have increased my capacity in leadership and business significantly.  Through the Common Leadership Curriculum (CLC), I have had a chance to explore my top five strengths (Ideation, Futuristic, Learner, Focus, Individualization) and enhance my relationship-building skills, especially in a multicultural context.  The business track was insightful for me, especially the themes of critical thinking, business plans, and social entrepreneurship.  I had the opportunities to learn more about agribusiness with Clark Atlanta University and Purdue University during the community of Practice.  Through my professional development experience with Agricycle Global, I am training on food drying, circular economy, and food security.  I am planning to implement a fish farming and an artisanal processing facility in Vakinankaratra to tackle food insecurity through fruits processing.

 Tojosoa RAMARLINA (Business, Lehigh University)

The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the ideal opportunity to meet giants and pioneers in your industry.  If you’re an entrepreneur and a problem-solver at heart, it is the place to be.  The content provided by my institute was top-notch and helped reframe my business approach.  In one month, my focus project went from an idea to a realized project with more than five figures in monthly recurring revenue.  Above all, I’m now connected to a vast network of leaders and change-makers around the globe.  I’m currently working on expanding access to opportunities in the virtual economy through Harato Capital and Rahona Labs.  We provide training and resources to 150 people from unprivileged areas in 3 different countries: Madagascar, the Philippines, and Venezuela. Our objective is to onboard 10,000 people in the next few months.

 Lova Andrianina RANDRIANASOLO (Public Management, Wayne State University)

My motivation to pursue the Mandela Washington Fellowship came from my participation in the YALI Regional Leadership Program.  I was fortunate to be selected for the 2021 cohort and to become part of the network of young leaders.  The program offered me academic courses, leadership training, mentoring, networking, professional opportunities, and community involvement.  But above all, it was a valuable opportunity to improve my leadership skills by becoming aware of my strengths.  The public management track helped me understand and harness strategies for developing and influencing policy toward implementing change.  Most importantly, I have been equipped with the tools and knowledge to better understand organizational, political, and cultural systems to strategically engage and mobilize support on the ground and to build ownership and commitment of the people I work with and for.

Tsiry Nantenaina RANDRIANAVELO (Civic Engagement, University of Georgia)

Professional skills and experiences were part of the assets gained from the Mandela Washington Fellowship, but an extended network and deeper relationships are the most important things I’m taking away.  I have been integrated into an active African-wide community.  Thanks to the mentorship offered by my focus project coach, my vision of my organization's sustainability is getting clearer.  I was even able to elaborate a strategic action plan.  Sharing knowledge is among my priorities.  By keeping in contact with Fellows and alumni, I am planning to respond to a diverse call for projects and to mobilize volunteers for a community service activity.

Vony RANDRIANONENANA (Civic Engagement, University of Nebraska-Lincoln)

What an amazing experience I gained from the Mandela Washington Fellowship in several domains including partnerships, networking, and diversity.  In addition to a deeper knowledge of American cultures, I have learned how to explore my strengths to lead and to empower my community through the Leadership Development Action Plan and Common Leadership Curriculum.  My current plans are to apply this valuable knowledge to my current work at Clair de Lune Madagascar, developing community projects for women, children, and youth in Madagascar, expanding professional networks with local, African and American people, encouraging team spirit toward the common goal of social inclusion, and being a role model in effective and resilient leadership.

Misa RASOLOFOARISON (Public Management, Arizona State University)

The Mandela Washington Fellowship gave me better knowledge of myself and my biases.  I was able to identify my talents, which I will develop into strengths for better leadership.  I also networked with other fellows, Americans, and other professionals in international trade.  I will do my best to maintain that networking, even expand it, to help share best practices and provide mutual support.  YALI has also been an opportunity for me to develop a project that is close to my heart and that serves my community.  I plan to implement my focus project DIO, a Malagasy word stating « clean » and an acronym for “Dirt Is Over”. It will consist of educating the consumer society for a waste-free environment.

Nadia RATSIMBA (Business, University of Notre Dame)

Through the Mandela Washington Fellowship, I learned about American culture, I learned about myself, and I learned how to adopt a strengths-based approach to leadership.  I also gained the friendship of my Malagasy Fellows, with the Fellows from other countries, with the university’s team, and during the cultural connection activity.  Related to my business track, the fellowship taught me about social entrepreneurship and helped me strengthen my business plan and my leadership skills.  I also received advice, guidance, and support from my coach. My plan now is to grow my business to bring it to the next level.  I will also use my leadership skills in the associations I lead, and I will continue to bring positive changes to my community.

Patricia Nabeza RAZAFINDRAKALA (Public Management, Georgia State University)

The Mandela Washington Fellowship was a very rich program.  I gained a lot from it, like knowing my strengths and how to maximize them.  As we are living in a particular and uncertain period, the Fellowship taught me the importance of being resilient, flexible, and open minded as a leader.  As I have a strong interest in policy, the various sessions on public management, social justice, the UBUNTU philosophy, and public speaking really stood out to me.  My next plan is to work with the political party that I belong to in an effort to increase the number of elected members from our party in the next election.

The 2021 fellows with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy J. Hyatt, Vice Minister in charge of Youth and YALI Regional Center alumna Tahina Juliana Ratovoson, Minister of Economy and Finance Rindra Hasimbelo Rabarinirinarison and Minister in charge of Fishing and Blue Economy Paubert Tsimanaoraty Mahatante – both alumni of the Mandela Washington Fellowship (Photo by U.S. Embassy Madagascar)

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy J. Hyatt: “Perseverance, resilience, and adaptability are exactly the leadership traits we need right now”

Last September, the U.S. Embassy to Madagascar and Comoros celebrated 11 young Malagasy leaders for completing a six-week intensive U.S. leadership training known as the Mandela Washington Fellowship in an official ceremony on September 14. Here are the remarks from U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy J. Hyatt

“It is a pleasure to celebrate the hard work and determination of Madagascar’s young people. I had the chance to speak with some of you at our last networking event, and I can tell you, I was inspired.

It was clear to me why each of you had been chosen for the Mandela Washington Fellowship.  Your stories demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a commitment to giving back to Madagascar.

But I am also impressed at well you’ve responded to the unexpected changes that this program has dealt you.

You applied to the Mandela Washington Fellowship thinking you would go to the United States in 2020 for a six-week exchange program. Instead, a global pandemic halted the program for an entire year, forcing you to postpone your plans – only for it ultimately to move online this year.

Confronted with these changes, you demonstrated perseverance. You displayed resilience, recovering quickly from each challenge. You remained adaptable, embracing the new virtual format and the opportunities that came with it.

These are exactly the leadership traits we need right now.

Like the rest of the world, Madagascar is facing choices as it contemplates how to build back better after COVID-19. How will the country manage its natural resources in a sustainable way that benefits all its people? How will the country develop long-term solutions to food insecurity in the south?  How will it address the global challenge of climate change?

These are tough questions. But I am confident in Madagascar’s ability to respond because I have met you.  I have heard your stories. And I have seen your potential.

I know that you will employ the perseverance, resilience, and adaptability you have displayed throughout this program. I believe in you and your ability to find solutions to tough questions.

And I also know that, like “Mpirahalahy Mianala,” the United States will be alongside you, rooting for your success.

So, on behalf of the U.S. government, let me say thank you for choosing this program and congratulations on completing it!”

MANTASOA – With the support of the U.S. Peace Corps, the Mantasoa CSB II launched its COVID-19 vaccination campaign yesterday. The campaign is providing free, Johnson&Johnson vaccines – a donation from the U.S. government – to approximately 4,000 community members in the 11 Fokontany of Mantasoa.

“It’s great that we can provide vaccinations to the people of Mantasoa since they have always supported our Peace Corps Training Center and Volunteers in Mantasoa,” Dr. Tahiry Raveloson, a Peace Corps Medical Officer said.

The Peace Corps’ campaign began with training on how to conduct COVID-19 vaccine sensitization campaigns and run vaccine clinics. Nearly 20 community health workers (CHWs), all 11 Fokontany presidents, and 32 Peace Corps staff members participated.

“I want to thank the doctors, Agent Communautaires (ACs), and Peace Corps members who helped with the sensitization and the vaccination effort in each Fokontany,” Rakotozafy Jean Pierre, the Mayor of Mantasoa said. “Thanks to that people are lining up to get vaccinated starting with the Chef of the Fokontany.”

Through November, Peace Corps staff members and ACs will conduct outreach to promote the vaccine and answers questions and concerns. They will also run local vaccine clinics in each Fokontany. For example, Peace Corps and CSB staff conducted a vaccine clinic in Andrefanivorona on October 14 and another in Masombahiny on October 15.

32 Peace Corps staff members were present in Mantasoa during the campaign.

Since the campaign’s launch on October 3, there has been a dramatic increase in vaccinations, with 233 people vaccinated to date.

“In the beginning, I was very hesitant about getting vaccinated, like almost everyone in the rural areas but after the sensitization and some information that I got about J&J, I got vaccinated,” Rakotomalala Raymond, President of Fokontany Andrefanivorona, said.

This vaccination campaign represents just one of the ways the United States is supporting the global effort to expand and intensify the fight against COVID-19 abroad, respond to humanitarian crises exacerbated by COVID-19, and support a global recovery while preparing for future pandemic threats.

The U.S. government has been a leading partner to Madagascar, standing side-by-side like “mpirahalahy mianala” in responding to outbreaks of plague, measles, malaria, and COVID-19. The United States remains the largest single-country donor to Madagascar's health sector, having provided $74.5 million in 2020 alone to strengthen the country’s health system.

Source: Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo / Peace Corps

ANTANANARIVO – The United States government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and on behalf of the American people, launched on October 15 a new $3.4 million, three-year project to address the growing problems of illegal wildlife trafficking and related corruption.

“Wildlife trafficking is a serious crime that damages economic prosperity, rule-of-law, good governance, conservation efforts, and human health and is often enabled by corruption,” U.S. Ambassador Amy J. Hyatt said. “The United States takes these issues very seriously, therefore we are investing in the fight to end corruption and wildlife trafficking in Madagascar.”

The U.S. government’s Countering Corruption and Wildlife Trafficking project, funded by USAID, is led by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and brings together a consortium of stakeholders, including TRAFFIC International, Transparency International Initiative Madagascar, and Alliance Voahary Gasy.

The project will work closely with Madagascar’s Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development. “We believe this project will have a significant impact thanks to the alliance of dedicated partners we are bringing together,” Ambassador Hyatt added. “To achieve these goals, we must secure meaningful buy-in from all levels of government across multiple ministries.”

The Minister of Environment, Baomiavotse Vahinala Raharinirina, the Minister of Justice, Herilaza Imbiki, and the President of the Committee to Safeguard Integrity (CSI), Sahondra Rabenarivo, also participated in the launch ceremony.

Wildlife trafficking and associated corruption are growing problems in Madagascar. According to TRAFFIC, more than 21,000 endemic tortoises were seized in illegal wildlife trafficking attempts in Madagascar between 2018-2021. The Countering Corruption and Wildlife Trafficking project will address these complex issues in several ways. The project will conduct research to identify the correct approaches and tools needed to strengthen anti-corruption efforts. It will work with law enforcement and customs to strengthen border controls and enhance surveillance by using specialized investigative techniques and targeted training. It will also improve effectiveness of the judicial system and ensure traffickers are prosecuted and sentenced by providing training and other assistance to relevant institutions.

The U.S. government is working work side-by-side with the Government of Madagascar and the Malagasy people, like ‘mpirahalahy mianala’, to secure the nation’s natural resources and biodiversity from illegal and unsustainable practices that threaten its environmental heritage and economic future.

Since 2013, the U.S. government has invested nearly $60 million in programs that combat wildlife and precious wood trafficking, improve livelihoods, and strengthen natural resource governance. This includes USAID’s two flagship environmental projects, USAID Hay Tao and USAID Mikajy, and two $1 million grants the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs awarded earlier this year to combat wildlife trafficking and illegal logging in Madagascar.

Source: Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo / USAID Madagascar

This legal clinic will promote environmental justice and enforcement of environmental laws in the Menabe region.

MORONDAVA – Today, Ambassador Amy Hyatt, United States Chargé d’Affaires for Madagascar and the Comoros, cut the ribbon to officially open the U.S. Government-supported Environmental Legal Clinic in Morondava. This legal clinic is an independent entity that provides communities in the Menabe region with access to free legal services, resources, and advice to promote adherence to and enforcement of environmental laws and regulations. The clinic is an initiative of the civil society organization Alliance Voahary Gasy (AVG) and is supported financially by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Hay Tao project. The Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, regional leaders, and other civil society organizations also collaborated on the development of the legal clinic with the Minister of Environment Baomiavotse Vahinala Raharinirina; Président of Alliance Voahary Gasy (AVG) Ndranto Razakamanarina; the Governor of Menabe Serge Lucky Randriantsoa; and other local officials and ministerial representatives joining the opening ceremonies.

Promoting good governance and supporting transparency are key U.S. government priorities. In her remarks during the ceremony, Ambassador Hyatt emphasized the U.S. government’s continued commitment to support the Government of Madagascar in its efforts to reduce corruption, improve the enforcement of environmental laws, and increase prosecution rates of those committing environmental crimes.

Ambassador Hyatt also highlighted the urgent need for this environmental legal clinic given the high level of deforestation and illegal cultivation of crops in the Menabe Antimena Protected Area. “Now is the time to increase transparency and to utilize these legal resources available through the clinic, to improve the lives of communities and protect the precious natural environment in Menabe.

Without transparency, without good governance, and without the knowledge and will to protect the environment - sustainable development will be difficult to achieve,” declared Ambassador Hyatt. Legal clinics like the Environmental Legal Clinic help local community members better understand the laws in order to protect both themselves and the environment, ultimately increasing adherence to the law. With support from the USAID Hay Tao project, a similar environmental legal clinic was opened by AVG in Maroantsetra in 2019. To date, that clinic has served nearly 300 community members seeking legal support on environmental and land tenure laws and regulations.

These legal clinics are one part of the U.S. government’s efforts to work side-by-side with the Government of Madagascar and the Malagasy people like “mpirahalahy mianala” to secure the nation’s natural resources and biodiversity from illegal and unsustainable practices that threaten its environmental heritage and economic future. Madagascar’s unparalleled biodiversity is significant globally, and its natural resources play a critical role in the nation’s economic and human development. Since 2013, the U.S. government has committed more than $55 million for environment programs that promote sustainability, improve livelihoods for local communities, bolster governance of natural resources, and protect thousands of hectares from illegal and unsustainable exploitation.

Press Release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo / USAID Madagascar

Supported by the U.S. government, the Menabe Sustainable Agriculture Forum is convening government officials, local leaders, and foreign ambassador from September 23-25.

MORONDAVA – U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Amy J. Hyatt is participating in a three-day agriculture forum in Morondava aimed at finding sustainable solutions to the Menabe region’s environmental problems. The American people, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), provided organizational and financial support to the event through both the USAID Mikajy and USAID Hay Tao projects, and in collaboration with the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock and the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development.

When asked about the significance of the forum, Chargé Hyatt said, "Addressing the sustainable development challenges [in Menabe] will require commitment and collaboration from leaders at the national, regional, and local levels. It will require all of us here at the forum to play our part to identify, develop, and implement transparent and attainable solutions to the security, corruption and economic challenges.”

Through the USAID Mikajy and USAID Hay Tao projects, the U.S. government is working at both the local and national levels to address Menabe’s economic and environmental challenges. Deforestation, persistent corruption, slash-and-burn agricultural practices that degrade soil, and regional insecurity have grown significantly over the last few years. Supporting sustainable solutions that protect Menabe from further corruption and degradation is a priority for the U.S. government.

The forum seeks to promote sustainable agriculture, effectively integrate development activities with ongoing land use planning, mobilize technical and financial resources to scale up sustainable practices, and attract the private sector to bolster the local economy. Yesterday’s participants included Government of Madagascar officials, business and civil society leaders, and foreign ambassadors. The forum will conclude with participants’ agreed-upon immediate and long-term actions to counter the current challenges and advance sustainable agriculture and economic development in Menabe.

Madagascar’s unparalleled biodiversity is significant globally, and its natural resources play a critical role in the nation’s economic and human development. The U.S. government works side-by-side with the Government of Madagascar and the Malagasy people like “mpirahalahy mianala” to secure the nation’s natural resources and biodiversity from illegal and unsustainable practices that threaten its environmental heritage and economic future.

Press release by U.S. Embassy Antananarivo / USAID Madagascar