Three prominent figures in Malagasy biodiversity research and conservation were elevated to the rank of dignitaries of the National Order yesterday at the Iavoloha State Palace. On this occasion, the Head of State, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina, called for the strengthening of forest protection.
The President emphasized that environmental protection is a state priority and requested the Ministry of Environment to develop an effective strategy to protect forests. A key focus is finding alternatives to charcoal, which remains the primary energy source for most households, despite its heavy impact on deforestation.
The challenge is multidimensional, as the transition away from charcoal requires affordable energy alternatives, such as domestic gas or electricity, which are currently hindered by high costs and infrastructure issues. Furthermore, the President noted that forest protection must address the root causes of environmental degradation, including illegal mining, poaching, and agricultural expansion driven by poverty.
Ultimately, the strategy must be holistic and multisectoral, integrating agricultural, energy, and social policies. Conservation efforts must provide tangible economic benefits to local communities, such as through biodiversity-linked tourism or the pharmaceutical valuation of plants, to ensure that the population becomes an active partner in preservation rather than a victim of restrictive measures.
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-28 06:08:33 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/environnement-le-chef-de-letat-requiert.html