The Mangrove Information Center at Ambondrolava village now possesses over 1km of elevated mangrove trails to explore this unique ecosystem.

So far HONKO & VZW have successfully created a local conservation association committed to protect the mangroves. In two years time over 300 families from five villages have signed up to become member and help to decide the future of their mangroves. They received confidence from the Malagasy government to locally manage their resources. The past two years over 80 000 mangrove seedlings were successfully planted out.

Research has shown the importance of these relative small wetlands and mangroves to the regional avifauna. Sustainable management of the adjacent wetlands is also promoted through the newly created local association.

With this booster grant we will be able to consolidate and expand the piloted alternative livelihood programs by integrating more people into these successful programs. The ‘vannerie’ program has proven highly successful: a first big order of 300 baskets have been finished.

The evaluation of carbon sequestration rates and linked carbon certification will assist local communities in future management and development planning while conserving their mangroves. We will start this research and at the same time include local students to reinforce local capacities and expertise.

We will also focus our efforts on sharing the gained knowledge with other communities through the development of a practical mangrove restoration booklet. A practical mangrove field course is also being prepared to aid local environmental students in gaining the necessary experience.