The German-Malagasy cooperation has made significant strides in environmental conservation through the "Programme d'appui à la gestion de l'environnement" (Page 2). This program, running until June 2023, aims to establish an "economy verte" or green economy, focusing on sustainable resource management and environmental governance. Funded by the German government and the European Union, Page 2 has allocated 21 million euros to support alternative income sources for communities dependent on natural resources.
Page 2 is the second phase of a program initiated in 2014, building on the successes of its predecessor. The program operates in four priority regions: Diana, Boeny, Atsimo Andrefana, and Analamanga. By providing training and support, Page 2 has enabled 6500 households to adopt sustainable livelihoods, moving away from activities that contribute to deforestation. The program promotes activities such as agroforestry, apiculture, and the production of wood products, moringa, and cashews.
One of the key initiatives of Page 2 is the production of "charbon vert" or green charcoal. By providing training and equipment, the program has helped charcoal producers switch to more sustainable methods, reducing deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. In Antsiranana and Ambilobe, 46 furnaces have been constructed, allowing for more efficient charcoal production. This initiative has not only created new job opportunities but also generated significant income for producers.
The program's impact is evident in the increased income and improved livelihoods of participating communities. In 2021, green charcoal production generated over 8.1 million ariary in net income per producer. Apiculture has also seen significant growth, with 231 beekeepers in the Boeny region doubling their production to 7000 kilos. Similarly, 200 farmers in the Diana region have benefited from apiculture training and support.
To ensure the sustainability of these initiatives, Page 2 works closely with private sector partners to establish market linkages and promote quality production. The program provides training on sales techniques, language, and production standards, enabling producers to meet the requirements of private companies. Partnerships have been established with companies such as La Compagnie du miel, The Bee Keeper, and Codal.
The success of Page 2 has been recognized, with over 7000 people benefiting from additional employment opportunities in agroforestry. The program's approach, which involves integrating local communities as partners in environmental conservation, has shown promising results. As the program comes to a close, efforts are underway to ensure its sustainability and potentially launch a third phase.
The German-Malagasy cooperation has demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. With the support of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Page 2 has made significant strides in promoting a green economy and reducing deforestation. As Madagascar looks to the future, the country's experience with Page 2 serves as a model for sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Key points
- - The Page 2 program has created new job opportunities and supported sustainable livelihoods for 6500 households in Madagascar. - The program promotes activities such as agroforestry, apiculture, and the production of wood products, moringa, and cashews. - Green charcoal production has generated significant income for producers, with 46 furnaces constructed in Antsiranana and Ambilobe.
