Regenerating Rainforests in Madagascar

Thank you for standing with rainforest communities and investing in their interconnected planetary health solutions. 

In Madagascar, planetary health takes shape through efforts not just to restore forests, but to actively protect them - especially during the dry season from May to October, when fire poses a serious threat to forest ecosystems and the communities who depend on them. Your support makes this protection possible.

As part of its ongoing efforts to prevent and combat these forest fires – and protect both the rainforest and the communities who depend on it – Health In Harmony (HIH) Madagascar recently took another meaningful step forward by organizing a specialized fire prevention training course. Working with a professional trainer, around 40 participants, including local community members and HIH staff, gained vital skills in fire prevention, detection, and response. Trainees also received first aid training for emergency response in the case of fire. The training also included first aid instruction to equip participants with the tools to respond safely and effectively during emergencies. 

But it doesn't stop there. HIH is also strengthening its collaboration with the local authorities, particularly the Direction Régionale de l'Environnement et du Développement Durable (DREDD). A newly signed Memorandum of Understanding marks a renewed, shared commitment to sustainable conservation.

Building on this momentum, HIH and the DREDD joined forces to organize an official visit by the Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, along with a national news segment by TVM highlighting the fire prevention training. These high-level visits signal growing recognition of the vital forest protection work HIH Madagascar is supporting and underscore the ecological importance of the Manombo Special Reserve. 

Deepening this collaboration with public authorities and local rainforest communities illustrates HIH’s integrated approach: linking the health of humans to that of ecosystems, through solidarity, mutual respect, and concrete action. Thank you for taking that action.  Your support makes it possible for rainforest communities to lead in protecting their ecosystems and improving health outcomes. 

Links:

• Read more about HIH's work in Madagascar