Project Oratsimba empowers coastal communities in southeast Madagascar by establishing community-led marine management to protect the small-scale lobster fishery, essential for their livelihoods. By creating Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs), implementing conservation measures, and providing financial literacy training, the project strengthens ecological resilience and promotes sustainable livelihoods, addressing both poverty and environmental issue. $96,000 has been secured out of $119,540.
Coastal communities in southeast Madagascar depend on the small-scale lobster fishery, which makes up 80% of household income, but overfishing and climate change have led to a 90% decline in lobster stocks since 1990. This severe reduction threatens the livelihoods of over 15,000 people, 80% of whom live below the poverty line. Without sustainable management, these communities face increased poverty, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, making it critical to address this challenge.
Project Oratsimba will empower communities to sustainably manage the small-scale lobster fishery by establishing Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs). Training has been provided to fishers and Marine Management Committees (MMCs) in communities like Sainte Luce and Elodrato. The project also engages over 380 community members in environmental education, including 100 women, while establishing savings groups and delivering financial literacy training to 45 households to improve financial security.
Project Oratsimba will secure sustainable livelihoods for over 15,000 people in southeast Madagascar by ensuring the recovery of lobster stocks through community-led marine management. As fishers adopt sustainable practices, households will experience increased financial security and food stability. The establishment of savings groups and financial literacy programs will reduce poverty, while the restored marine ecosystems will support future generations.
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