The collaboration between Sahanala and Fanamby is a true success story of the synergy between the private sector and conservation. Established in 2008 to assist producer associations in Anjozorobe Angavo, Sahanala has evolved into a multinational operator in various value chains. Together, the social enterprise Sahanala and the association Fanamby promote the improvement of farmers’ living conditions while preserving the environment in several protected areas, notably Loky Manambato.

The protected area of Loky Manambato is located in the SAVA region in northeast Madagascar. This region is renowned for its lucrative crops of vanilla, cloves, and cocoa, which are highly sought after in the international market. These crops are expected to generate significant income for the producers. However, certain vanilla farming practices can be environmentally destructive, impacting the ecosystems crucial to local communities.

Thanks to the collaboration between Fanamby and Sahanala, the new protected area of Loky Manambato hosts a project focused on traceable and responsible vanilla production. These projects aim for environmentally friendly vanilla production, ensuring a decent livelihood for producers, along with certification and traceability of the production. As part of this project, a delegation visited the New Protected Area to assess the impacts of the achievements of both entities. This visit provided an opportunity to explore the outcomes of funded projects and engage with various stakeholders.

Ecological Practices in Ankolotany

The delegation began with a visit of the COBIOVAP association in Ankolotany. They had the opportunity to witness ecological practices used in vanilla cultivation on a plot owned by a 32-year-old individual. Recognized for his exemplary work, the owner was praised by visitors for his contribution to environmentally friendly vanilla production.

The visit continued to the premises of a green charcoal project, providing members with a sustainable fuel source while reducing their environmental impact. The visit concluded positively with a focus group organized in a nursery center, where members expressed satisfaction with the benefits derived from the association.

Mangrove Reforestation in Amborokarato

In Amborokarato, the delegation flew over several mangrove reforestation sites, including the Rangaia, Andavakalovo, and Amborokarato forests. Visitors were impressed by the progress of young plants and the extent of reforestation. A focus group exchange with association members highlighted their initiative and commitment to reforestation to restore previously cleared areas. They also emphasized the challenge of restoring and preserving the mangrove forest to ensure the survival of fish and crustaceans, improving the livelihoods of association members.

These members will continue to persuade the rest of the population to join the association. With a survival rate of 82%, successful regrowth of young plants, and an abundance of fishery products in the area, the positive outcomes demonstrate the results of strict conservation and co-management actions. Visitors reiterated their commitment to marine restoration to assist local communities and Fanamby financially.

Awareness in Maromokotra

The visit continued to Maromokotra, visiting a reforestation site south of the village where young plants achieved a 65% survival rate. The delegation conducted a reforestation session of 10 propagules. An exchange with the local population followed to explain the importance of reforestation and the Binara forest block for the ecological services they provide to communities. Visitors, Sahanala’s presidents, and the Deputy Mayor then discussed the commune's main production source. Rice cultivation remains farmers' primary income source, with the cashew nut sector as a complementary source that Sahanala has committed to developing.

Vanilla Production in Berondra

In Berondra, the program included a visit to the COBIOVA TSIMIRAFY Association to explore a demonstration vanilla plot and meet association members during a focus group. Visitors appreciated the quality of the production and exchanged thoughts with association representatives on their association life and vanilla production. They affirmed that production adhered perfectly to established rules. The visit concluded inside the local Public Primary School.

Meeting with Local Lemurs - the Tattersali

The visit to Daraina included a lunch at the Tattersalli camp, highly enjoyed by the visitors. An observation of the Sifakas (Propithecus) was organized for enthusiasts of arboreal animals. During a brief visit to the Feon’Ankomba Radio Station, the Regional Director emphasized the station’s role and importance in the conservation of Loky Manambato.

Meeting with Schools in Madirobe

The mission concluded in Madirobe with a meeting with CEG teachers to discuss their operational methods. This school will serve as a pilot within the Loky Manambato Protected Area for environmental activities such as beautification, gardening, and school reforestation. The collaboration between Sahanala and Fanamby will continue to support these initiatives.

During the visit, the delegation witnessed the impressive achievements of the collaboration between Fanamby and Sahanala in the Loky Manambato region. The ecological practices implemented for vanilla cultivation in Ankolotany, mangrove reforestation in Amborokarato, awareness initiatives in Maromokotra, vanilla production in Berondra, and meetings with schools in Madirobe all attest to the effectiveness of this collaboration in environmental conservation and improving the livelihoods of farmers. The projects led by these two entities have promoted environmentally friendly practices while generating income for local producers. This visit provided an opportunity to assess the positive impacts of these achievements and engage in discussions with various stakeholders.