A National Plan for the Protection of Bees in Madagascar

In Madagascar, World Bee Day was celebrated on May 20th with a strong message: young people must be educated to protect bees.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, with the support of the FAO and local associations, organized a special day to explain why bees are important in Anosy, Antananarivo. Pupils, students, and beekeepers participated in workshops, discussions, and presentations.

Pollinators not only produce honey. Their role is also to help plants reproduce. Without these insects, fewer fruits, vegetables, and flowers would grow. These foragers play a key role in food and nature.

Today, these insects are in danger. Climate change, pesticide use, and forest loss are complicating their survival. Even the Apis mellifera unicolor, the Malagasy honeybee, is beginning to be affected.

To address this situation, a National Pollinator Protection Plan is being prepared. This plan aims to integrate the protection of these insects into agricultural and environmental projects.

The organizers of the day believe that we must start by informing young people. Because they are the ones who will decide the future. “If children understand the importance of bees, they will be able to better protect them tomorrow,” said one facilitator.