The Bora Special Reserve in Madagascar, classified as a Critically Endangered Protected Area, is facing severe threats due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. In response, Conservation Allies Madagascar Conservation Officer Audlin Ramiandra recently visited the reserve to assess its condition and discuss conservation strategies with local and regional authorities, together with the community. This visit has sparked a significant effort to safeguard this vital ecosystem.
Following Audlin’s visit, the Governor and the Regional Director of Environment and Sustainable Development (DREDD) of the Sofia Region conducted a special mission to Anjalazala Commune, a key area involved in protecting Bora Special Reserve. The mission aimed to raise awareness among local communities about the importance of conservation, highlight the financial support provided by Conservation Allies, and encourage collaborative efforts to protect biodiversity while promoting sustainable development.
The local population expressed a strong willingness to collaborate and even committed to preserving the reserve. In the past, authorities have struggled to enforce conservation measures owing to financial constraints, which has led to extensive deforestation as both local communities and migrants from other regions of Madagascar have converted large portions of the forest into corn fields.
As part of our commitment to conservation, Conservation Allies has pledged funding to support the reserve’s protection efforts. This announcement has been met with great enthusiasm from regional authorities, who recognize the critical role of Bora Special Reserve in maintaining the region’s ecological balance. Surrounding communities are also being engaged to protect the Bora Reserve and will be rewarded with community livelihood improvement investments should they stop future deforestation as shown in Global Forest Watch.
To reinforce the conservation message, the Governor and the Regional Forest Director visited villages surrounding the reserve, directly addressing the community. They emphasized the legal protections in place and warned against further deforestation and agricultural expansion. Authorities made it clear that violations—such as unauthorized farming, illegal burning, and deforestation—would be met with strict enforcement measures. This mission marks a crucial step forward in ensuring the survival of the Bora Special Reserve. With the continued support of Conservation Allies and the cooperation of local communities and authorities, there is renewed hope for preserving one of Madagascar’s most threatened ecosystems.
