Antsanitia

The Antsanitia Coastal Restoration and Ecolodge Project (ACREP), located in Madagascar’s Boeny region near Mahajanga, is a collaborative effort between ARC and Red Island Restoration (RIR) to restore and conserve diverse coastal ecosystems, including mangrove estuaries, raffia swamps, coastal forests, and dry forests. Launched in early 2024, the project expanded from 600 to 1,042 hectares, integrating mangrove and terrestrial restoration to create a resilient, interconnected forest system. This initiative targets critical habitats supporting endangered species, such as the Coquerel’s Sifaka lemur and Sawfish, both listed as vulnerable or critically endangered by the IUCN Red List. The project has already observed encouraging increases in wildlife populations and biodiversity, driven by restoration efforts.

ACREP achieved a significant milestone by planting 7,100 trees from its nursery ahead of the 2024–2025 planting season, with year-round mangrove planting and terrestrial seedling production set to begin mid-2025 for planting in early 2026. Sustainable practices, including fire lane construction, debris clearing, and mulching, ensure long-term forest health, while dedicated guards, hired as part of an expanded workforce, collaborate with local authorities to protect against illegal harvesting. In partnership with the Vondron’Olona Ifotony (VOI), a community-based forest management association, ACREP employs local residents, fostering leadership and economic opportunities. This community-driven approach mitigates human pressures on the forest, supports the estuary’s role as a vital fishery, and promotes sustainable resource management for the benefit of both the environment and Mahajanga’s communities.