Aranta-Sotema

The Aranta–Sotema Mangrove Restoration Project, located south and southeast of Mahajanga City, spans 942 hectares of mangrove forests, mudflats, tidal channels, and freshwater tributaries in the Betsiboka Estuary. This initiative, led by Red Island Restoration (RIR) in partnership with ARC, focuses on restoring and protecting this vital ecosystem, which supports the ecological and economic well-being of Mahajanga and its surrounding communities. By training and employing local community members, including forest guards, the project ensures active community involvement in maintaining and safeguarding the restored mangrove forest, fostering sustainable stewardship of the environment.

Previous restoration efforts by RIR at the Aranta–Sotema site have already yielded significant ecological benefits, such as the revival of key spawning grounds for aquatic species, boosting sustainable fisheries and enhancing local food security through a reliable protein source. The project also supports increased biodiversity, benefiting both resident and migratory wildlife, and contributes to the Tahiriniala Zoological and Botanical Park, a center for rehabilitating endangered species and promoting environmental education and research. By integrating community engagement, employment opportunities, and access to sustainable resources, the project strengthens the bond between people and their environment, encouraging long-term commitment to conservation and ecological renewal.