Madagasikara Voakajy

Madagasikara Voakajy is a Malagasy organisation dedicated to conserving native species and habitats in Madagascar. The team protects ecosystems by combining conservation science with community involvement.  

Founded in 2005, the organisation was formed from an initiative between the University of Antananarivo and the University of Aberdeen in 1989. In its early years, the organisation focused on bat research and capacity-building projects that provided valuable opportunities for students.   

Now, Madagasikara Voakajy has projects devoted to chameleons, frogs, bats, and baobabs, and a number of cross-programme strategies allow these different activities to be integrated. 

A scenic view of a forest and river in Madagascar.

The primary goal is effectively promoting the conservation and sustainable use of Malagasy ecosystems and species by mitigating key threats. To achieve this goal the team has devised a strategy that focuses on applied research, community engagement, and highlighting the value of native species.  Implementing these three aspects will enable communities to live in harmony with nature and prosper through the conservation and regeneration of their territories. 

Notably, the team have made significant milestones which include: establishing seven protected areas; reclassifying the golden mantella frog from Critically Endangered to Endangered ; and setting up a fair and sustainable value chain for the fruit of the Garndidier’s baobab to generate benefits for resource managers while reinforcing the protection of the species and its natural habitat. 

Madagasikara Voakajy remains dedicated to ensuring that both Madagascar’s communities and its unique wildlife can flourish side by side.