Threatened biodiversity in Madagascar

The Ala Programme: Phase III has made significant progress toward restoring and protecting the Sainte Luce Littoral Forest (SLLF) in southeastern Madagascar, one of the country’s most threatened ecosystems and home to several endangered lemur species. A total of 18,500 seedlings were planted in 2026, three times the number in 2025. SEED also expanded the Ala Nursery from a capacity of 12,000 seedlings to more than 31,000 native seedlings across 29 indigenous species. New planting strategies based on open-ground restoration have already shown promising results, with survival rates of 81% compared to 39% in previous Acacia-planted corridors. These achievements demonstrate the significant progress being made towards restoring the Sainte Luce Littoral Forest and creating a more resilient future for Madagascar's unique biodiversity.

During the upcoming Phase IV of the Ala Programme, SEED plans to plant 30,000 native seedlings, increasing the reforested area in S8 by two-thirds. A mix of more than 20 native species typical of mature littoral forests, with a focus on nine species identified in previous phases as particularly suitable for reforestation, will be used. The programme is also improving planting techniques and nursery infrastructure through the installation of a new well, ensuring reliable water access year-round. This will mitigate seasonal water shortages and reduce nursery seedling mortality. SEED will also be continuing research and monitoring to better understand how restored corridors support wildlife movement and ecosystem recovery.

In addition, Phase IV aims to lay the groundwork for fair and effective long-term forest management rooted in the Sainte Luce community. Current forest rules, including national and regional laws and local environmental directives known as dinas will be reviewed. The roles and responsibilities of each forest management body will be codified through collaborative meetings with local committees and shared to establish a knowledge base from which to implement further capacity strengthening. SEED will also develop the capacity of community-based forest management bodies (COBAs) to independently govern the SLLF without external support. This will be carried out through the facilitation of new COBA elections and financial management training. By the end of the two years, the Ala Programme aims to have supplied the SLLF COBAs with the skills and resources required to control illegal deforestation in the long term.

Your generosity is helping us restore Madagascar’s forests, protect endangered lemurs, and rebuild resilience for both people and nature. Thank you for your continued support.