Reforestation and agroforestry

In 2023, after an initial test phase, Tozzi Green Madagascar focused its efforts on reforestation in order to mitigate the serious problem of climate change by working to improve the microclimatic conditions of the region through the planting of perennial species.

This is a long-term project that has required an intensive series of meetings with all the parties involved, and has involved an even larger workforce than before, both for the planting of the forest and for its maintenance (the lifespan of the forest is estimated to be at least 40 years). Reforestation is widely regarded as an ecologically sustainable practice; some scientists even believe that it is the only way to combat climate change on a large scale. In addition, reforestation is recognised as a practice that has other important environmental benefits in terms of soil, fauna and flora biodiversity.

These benefits are not limited to the reforested areas, but are also felt in the surrounding environment, bringing improvements to the communities living in these areas. The areas covered by the project are scattered across a vast, highly fragmented territory where some of the land is used for other purposes. In the specific case of the Ihorombe region, reforestation will help alleviate some of the region’s most critical problems, such as water scarcity, low soil fertility, severe soil erosion and lack of biodiversity. The project plans to allocate part of the land to agroforestry, with some areas already prepared for this purpose.

Tozzi Green Madagascar is involved in establishing and managing areas where both productive trees (for wood/charcoal or fruits) and inter-row cultivation of food crops (maize, manioc, sorghum, etc.) are planted. On this land, the local community has full management control and owns all the produce harvested. This is the outline of the agroforestry project.

Reforestation of a degraded area with endemic and native species restores biodiversity by creating a favourable habitat. In an ARR project, it ensures the principle of cumulative benefits, because without this intervention, the expected ecological benefits – return of species, soil stabilisation, CO₂ capture – would not exist, and reforestation therefore strengthens the resilience of ecosystems.

Over 25 different plant species will be planted (Acacia auriculiformis, mangium, leptocarpa, Melia azedarach, Ceiba pentandra, Jacaranda mimosifolia, Terminalia mantaly, Cassia siamea, Stereospermum euphorioides and other minor species).

The people of Satrokala, Andiolava and Ambatolahy are actively involved in all stages of the ARR reforestation project, which aims to restore degraded ecosystems while providing sustainable economic opportunities.

The communities are involved in the implementation of the project through reforestation, management of the restored areas and care of the planted trees. At the same time, an agroforestry programme is being developed with local people, combining reforestation and sustainable agricultural production to ensure long-term socio-economic benefits.

The communities play a key role in the project. They are regularly consulted to discuss the memoranda of understanding signed with the three local authorities and to adapt priorities to local needs. They are involved in reforestation, but also in improving zebu grazing techniques in designated areas, thereby promoting more sustainable management of natural resources.

Activities include soil preparation, planting, maintenance of reforested areas and the introduction of agroforestry practices. Territorial development projects are also underway, including the construction of infrastructure (schools and health centres), the provision of educational and medical equipment, and support to improve living conditions.

The project will contribute to the creation of more than 200 permanent jobs over several years, 20% of which will be filled by women and the majority by workers from local communities. These jobs will be in reforestation, agroforestry and pastoral projects.

Local labour is prioritised in all project activities. In addition, training courses are provided for local people to develop their skills in agroforestry, forest management and sustainable livestock farming, thereby promoting their economic and environmental autonomy.

Memoranda of understanding have been drawn up with the three communes to ensure effective cooperation in the development of the area. A number of local associations and institutions also support the initiatives, ensuring the sustainability of the actions undertaken. The company has signed agreements with universities (University of Antananarivo and University of Ihosy) to contribute to the project’s research and development. Partnerships have also been established, including with the local women’s association to provide local seeds, and with the Isalo National Park.

Training programmes are regularly organised to help communities adopt sustainable practices. Awareness-raising campaigns are also being carried out through community workshops and regular exchanges with local representatives to ensure effective and participatory management of natural resources.

The project will create jobs, build new infrastructure and improve the quality of life of the local population through existing infrastructure and the creation of new infrastructure (in accordance with the memoranda of understanding). The direct contribution of the reforestation project can be summarised as follows: