Ecosystem Restoration Madagascar Project #61511

Bicycles for 6 Women Saving Baobabs in Madagascar

by Women for Conservation

Bicycles for 6 Women Saving Baobabs in Madagascar

Project Report | Jul 13, 2025
Thank you donors! + some baobab facts!

By Libby Henrickson | Administrative Assistant

Twisting baobab tree in Baobab Alley, Madagascar

Dear Donors,

Thanks to your generous support, our 6 women forest rangers in Madagascar have been able to dramatically increase their capacity to protect the venerated Baobab trees. With the introduction of bicycles in 2024, these intrepid women were able to more than double the area patrolled, curbing 88% of illegal fires as compared to 2023. In 2023, the women patrolled 382 km, while in 2024, on bicycles, they were able to patrol 676 km. We are heartwarmed by their amazing work, which has been made possible with your help.

Not only are you helping these women create widespread impact and become empowered as leaders in the movement to protect the Earth’s biodiversity, you are also helping to protect this iconic tree species which holds boundless cultural and ecological significance.

The baobab, growing up to 80 feet tall, 40 feet in diameter, and 2,000 years old, is sometimes called the “tree of life” because of the many extraordinary functions it provides. Humans and animals both have rich histories intertwined with the august species. Bats drink from its flowers, pollinating it in the process. Elephants, black rhinos, and elands eat the fallen fruit and bark. Its twisting branches and bulbous trunk provides habitat for insects, birds, and sometimes even humans and livestock! Humans make ropes and baskets from its fibrous bark; its leaves and fruits have medicinal properties; they are even sometimes used as gathering spots. They are revered because of these life-sustaining gifts and the baobab’s resilience in the trying climates of Africa.

Distressingly, baobabs have been dying and scientists are not sure why, though they attribute it most likely to climate change. This is why these forest ranger’s work is so important. We need to do everything we can to curb threats to these ancient beings so that they have the best possible chance of survival.

With your help, we can continue to preserve iconic species like the baobab, who not only provide vital ecosystem services but also serve as a cultural symbol of resilience and life in times of difficulty.

Thank you again for supporting these women and their mission to protect the baobab. Together, we can make meaningful change!

Sincerely,

The Women for Conservation Team

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Mar 18, 2025
Women on Wheels: Saving Madagascars Baobabs

By Emily Knudson | Director of Outreach and Philanthropy

Women on Wheels: How W4C Rangers are Protecting Madagascar’s Ancient Baobabs

In the heart of Madagascar’s Menabe region, a quiet revolution is unfolding among the towering, ancient baobab trees of Allée des Baobabs. Thanks to the support of our generous donors, Women for Conservation has equipped local women rangers with bicycles—an investment that is proving to be a game-changer in their efforts to patrol and protect this breathtaking landscape.

A Forest Under Threat, A Community Rising to Protect It

The Allée des Baobabs is a natural wonder, drawing thousands of visitors each year. But beyond its beauty lies a fragile ecosystem increasingly threatened by fires, vandalism, and encroaching human activity. For years, Women for Conservation has supported local women rangers—members of the KMMFA conservation group—to patrol this protected area on foot, covering as much ground as possible to prevent environmental damage.

However, the vast 800 acre area proved challenging to monitor effectively. Fires, in particular, posed a severe threat to the ancient trees, some of which stand at an astonishing 100 feet tall. In 2023 alone, the area saw 17 fire incidents. Recognizing the need for a faster, more efficient patrol system, Women for Conservation introduced bicycles into the program. The results have been nothing short of transformative.

Speeding Up Conservation Efforts

With bicycles, the women rangers have multiplied their patrol reach, dramatically increasing their capacity to monitor the forest and respond to threats. Over the past year, these dedicated conservationists have patrolled an astounding 676 kilometers—more than ever before. More importantly, fire incidents dropped by an incredible 88%, from 17 cases in 2023 to just 2 in 2024.

The ability to quickly reach and extinguish small fires before they spread has been a game-changer. Before the bicycles, getting to a fire site quickly on foot was nearly impossible. Now, with a simple push of the pedal, these women can respond swiftly, safeguarding the irreplaceable baobabs that have stood tall for centuries.

More than Just a Ride—A Symbol of Empowerment

Beyond conservation, the bicycles have brought new freedoms to the women rangers. In a region where transportation options are limited, these bicycles serve as more than just work tools—they provide independence. Women who once spent hours walking long distances can now reach their patrol sites more efficiently, return home earlier, and have more time to dedicate to their families and communities.

For many of these women, the bicycles represent empowerment. They are no longer just protectors of the forest; they are role models, showing the next generation of girls that they, too, can lead conservation efforts in their communities.

The Impact of Your Support

These remarkable results were made possible by the generosity of our supporters. Thanks to your donations, we have not only strengthened conservation efforts in Madagascar but also improved the lives of the women leading this work. By providing them with bicycles, we have amplified their impact, ensuring the ancient baobabs continue to stand tall for generations to come.

But our work is far from over. As we continue to expand this initiative, we invite you to be part of this success story. Your support can help us equip more women rangers with the tools they need to protect our planet’s most vulnerable landscapes.

Together, we are pedaling toward a greener, more sustainable future—one ride at a time.

Join us in this journey. Donate today and be a part of the movement protecting Madagascar’s iconic baobabs!

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Nov 17, 2024
Thank You for Helping Us Save Boabab Alley

By Emily Knudson | Director of Outreach and Philanthropy

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