Views: 2453 | June 11, 2013
In October 2012, WCS in partnership with GRET (a French development NGO), PCDDBA (a local association) and Madagascar National Parks, started a new project funded by the European Union, whose objective is to con- tribute to food security and poverty reduction for effective preservation of natural resources in and around the Mananara National Park (NE Madagascar). The proposed action will contribute to improved livelihoods and resil- ience of vulnerable populations living in pe- ripheral areas of the Mananara National Park. The four main components of the project are: (i) secure and increase agricultural produc- tion in the lowlands, plains and slopes of rice farmers from 10 communities (COBA) in charge of the management of the park ripar- ian areas; (ii) develop income-generating activities, including the promotion of activities valorizing the agro-forestry products; (iii) the development and professionalization of responsible fishing, contributing to improved food and economic security of households in coastal areas, while reducing harmful prac- tices that prevent the renewal of fisheries resources in 11 coastal villages; and (iv) greater involvement of local communities and organizations in the collaborative manage- ment of natural resources (forestry and fish- ery). Implementation of this project through a collaboration between a development NGO (GRET), a conservation NGO (WCS) and a local association (PCDDBA) will effectively combine biodiversity conservation and eco- nomic and social development for the benefit of local communities. GRET has been actively fighting poverty and inequalities for 35 years. Its 700 professionals provide lasting, innova- tive solutions for fair development in 30 countries and work to positively influence policy.