Sustainable financing for protected areas at the heart of discussions

The Minister of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Max Andonirina Fontaine, is leading a European tour to consolidate financing for Malagasy protected areas.

In Brussels, he met with the European Union and the Directorate General for International Partnerships (INTPA), alongside the Foundation for Protected Areas and Biodiversity of Madagascar (FAPBM), Madagascar National Parks (MNP), GIZ, and the Malagasy diplomatic mission. The delegation presented ongoing reforms, national priorities, and projects focused on climate, biodiversity, and sustainable investments.

The EU outlined its financial mechanisms. The Global Gateway Initiative aims to mobilize €300 billion for partner countries. The NDICI opens access to new levers such as carbon credits, biodiversity credits, and payments for ecosystem services. “Our reforms and projects pave the way for real sustainable investment opportunities. Madagascar wants to demonstrate that climate, biodiversity, and economic development move forward together, and we see the European Union as a strategic partner,” the Minister declared.

In Frankfurt, the delegation continued discussions with the FAPBM and KfW, with the support of the BMZ. The donors confirmed their commitment, announced new contributions, and congratulated Madagascar’s vision. These organizations expressed their willingness to diversify their support in order to secure long-term funding for protected areas.

The delegation reiterated that conservation is not just about emblematic species. This approach also includes forest protection, water management, climate adaptation, and preserving the livelihoods of local communities.

The Minister’s tour continues in Berlin, where discussions with other strategic partners are expected to open new perspectives for Madagascar’s biodiversity and sustainable development.