On June 7, 2024, the University of Rhode Island’s Coastal Resources Center (CRC) announced a significant partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and key local ministries in Madagascar, launching a new initiative aimed at enhancing environmental conservation and sustainable development. This initiative represents a $41 million investment over five years, effectively doubling U.S. aid for Madagascar’s environmental sector.
The CRC is leading the USAID Riake project, which focuses on marine conservation, spatial planning, and fostering sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities. In addition to Riake, USAID is also implementing two other projects: USAID Harena, targeting land-based conservation and biodiversity efforts, and USAID Mizana, which concentrates on improving environmental governance through anti-corruption initiatives.
The USAID Riake project has secured $13 million, and aims to empower communities while ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems. Its strategy includes five key approaches: promoting sustainable management of natural resources through marine protected areas; diversifying livelihoods; enhancing governance and countering illegal fishing; building resilience to climate change; and improving marine tenure policies and spatial planning.
The CRC team, including project leaders Sarah Gaines and Karen Kent, traveled to Madagascar in May for the project’s launch. They collaborated with local partners such as Blue Ventures and the Wildlife Conservation Society, emphasizing their commitment to protecting Madagascar’s marine biodiversity and supporting coastal communities facing poverty.
The CRC is not new to Madagascar; it has six years of experience implementing projects that support community-based management of marine resources. Previous initiatives, like the USAID Hay Tao project, focused on resource management knowledge and capacity building. A highlight was the Fisher Women Leadership Program, which empowered women in Madagascar’s fishing communities—a component that will continue under USAID Riake.
Gaines expressed optimism about the project, noting its focus on the importance of coastal and marine regions for biodiversity and community well-being. The CRC aims to integrate global best practices and local partnerships to ensure the success of their conservation efforts in this ecologically rich yet economically challenged island nation.
In summary, this initiative represents a holistic approach to addressing environmental challenges while fostering community resilience, crucial for Madagascar’s future. By leveraging local partnerships and building on past successes, the CRC and USAID aim to create sustainable pathways for both ecological and human prosperity in Madagascar.
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