"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
19 Jun 2023
Local farmers in Madagascar are taking the lead in reforestation efforts in the country, with the help of a non-governmental organization called Green Again. The initiative, which began in 2017, aims to restore the country's degraded forests and improve the livelihoods of local farmers at the same time.
Madagascar is one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, with a high number of endemic species of plants and animals. However, deforestation has been a major problem in the country, with only 10% of its original forest cover remaining. This has led to soil erosion, loss of habitat for wildlife, and reduced water quality.
Green Again works with farmers to plant native tree species on their land, providing them with the necessary training and resources. In return, the farmers receive a portion of the profits from the sale of the trees once they mature.
The project has already seen significant success, with over 2 million trees planted and 700 hectares of land restored so far. In addition, the participating farmers have reported improvements in soil quality and increased biodiversity on their land.
Reforestation is a difficult task, but with the dedication of local farmers and the support of organizations like Green Again, there is hope for the restoration of Madagascar's forests and the preservation of its unique biodiversity.