A Madagascan environmental activist has celebrated the success of a special project in his homeland, which encourages policymakers to take firm action on climate change.
Efa Ravelonantoandro, who works at the Centre Arrupe Madagascar, is leading the Haitaky Maitso (HM) initiative, which targets national and international leaders involved in discussions on environmental crises.
Funded by Jesuit Missions, it seeks to reach a broad audience – particularly young people in Madagascar – and consolidate the work put in place at the Centre Arrupe, an environmental education centre.
HM has collaborated with climate coalitions such as the Groupe Thématique Changement Climatique and Aika, which share resources and ideas to build towards a more sustainable Madagascar.
Efa explained that working with such groups has opened up doors to global forums on climate change.
It has also engaged with grassroots organisations across Madagascar, carrying out environmental workshops and training programmes, to raise awareness of the impact of climate change in the country and beyond.
“Madagascar [can be] a leader in climate change solutions and a vital participant in global climate negotiations”
Working with those on the ground, HM has helped devise clear finance proposals, which will hopefully lead to funding opportunities for climate solutions in Madagascar.
And it has supported ongoing initiatives, such as the Centre Arrupe’s campaign to combat the use of single-use plastic bags.
“Despite facing initial challenges, HM has evolved into a successful and impactful project, demonstrating the power of collaboration, advocacy, and capacity building,” Efa said.
“Through the dedication and hard work of everyone involved, we have made significant progress in raising awareness, building partnerships, and contributing to climate action both locally and internationally.”
HM representatives were present at COP29 in Azerbaijan last year, where they had the opportunity to ensure “Madagascar’s voice was heard” on climate issues.
They are set to attend this year’s conference in Brazil, and Efa explained that this is another step towards his country becoming “a leader in climate change solutions and a vital participant in global climate negotiations”.
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