Protecting Threatened Lemur Habitat in Madagascar

During the last six months, the communities of Sainte luce, Ebakika and the wider Mahatalaky commune have been preparing for peak fire season, currently ongoing in Madagascar. A mass mobilisation event was held in each community to emphasise the importance of fire management and prevention strategies, the importance of lemur conservation and included a demonstration of the mitigation tools. To date, 50 fire beaters have been distributed and additional training sessions were held to prepare for peak fire season (pictured). Shortly after, the communities’ skills and tools were successfully put to use!

The first big test arrived in September. The Sainte Luce community responded to a bush fire using the fire beaters and demonstrated techniques very effectively. October also saw large fires burn the grasslands in Ebakika and Sainte Luce. Again the communities fought it well and showed appreciation for the materials: “Thank you for the fire beaters! They are perfect and make fighting the fires easier.” said one community member. Additional training sessions are being planned for another community and more materials have been purchased to allow the communities to better mitigate fires in the area and continue to protect lemur habitat.