Project
Kafeala – Planting Self-Sustaining Forests in Madagascar

The First Human-Made Forests in the Entire Ankazobe District

Although numerous reforestation projects exist, almost all rely on invasive species like eucalyptus and pine – which dry out the soil, deplete water sources, increase the risk of wildfires, contain toxins (eucalyptus) that native flora and fauna cannot adapt to, and provide no ecological benefit. Referring to these methods as the restoration of forests would not do justice to the unique and threatened nature of Madagascar. In contrast, we plant the first real, native forests in the region.

Biologically Diverse and Dense Forest Ecosystems

  • Over 150 plant species native to the Ankazobe district, including 5 species that exist in only a single forest worldwide (Special Reserve Ankafobe) and are critically endangered, as well as wild coffee, wild blueberries, palms, lianas, hardwoods with pink or black wood, and so much more
  • Natural habitats for endangered plant and animal species
  • Dense planting inspired by natural forest structures
  • Accelerated growth through natural competition for light
  • High resilience against extreme weather events

Permanent Protection

  • Forests established on legally secured, officially registered land owned by our organization
  • Protected by dedicated rangers, firebreaks, and other safety measures

Self-Sustaining Forests

  • Long-term financially self-sustaining forest protection through the nonprofit production and sale of forest coffee and forest honey
  • Climate-Resilient Economic Development – Coffee develops a unique flavor profile in the shade of the diverse forest
  • Creating fair jobs and supporting sustainable regional development
  • No Monocultures: Maximum of 1.5 % coffee shurbs relative to the total number of plants – preserving the natural diversity of the forest

Direct and Local Implementation

  • More than 90 % of our team members are from Madagascar
  • Projects implemented from A to Z – full control on the ground

Social Responsibility

  • Permanent employment contracts instead of short-term seasonal work
  • Poverty reduction through fair working conditions
  • Social security for employees and their families – for the first time in their lives

For more information, visit our website at kafeala.org.