Kafeala – Planting Self-Sustaining Forests in Madagascar
Site
Ankafobe Special Reserve (nearest natural forest)
Natural Forest 132,44 ha
Ankafobe Special Reserve (nearest natural forest)

The Ankafobe Special Reserve is one of the last two remaining natural forest in the entire Ankazobe District, together with the Ambohitantely Special Reserve, located about 10 km away.


Ecological Importance

  • Size: 0.33 km² of natural forest
  • Unique flora and fauna: The only forest in the world where 5 critically endangered plant species are found
  • Exceptional biodiversity: Home to wild lemurs, rare birds and many endemic plant species
  • Key Biodiversity Area: Internationally recognized as a critical habitat for threatened species

Threats

Ankafobe faces multiple threats that put its unique biodiversity at risk. Frequent wildfires can devastate entire sections of the forest, while deforestation and slash-and-burn agriculture continue to reduce the already limited forest cover. Invasive plant species also pose a significant challenge, outcompeting native vegetation and reducing the habitat available for threatened species. Additionally, climate change is making the situation even more difficult, with increasing droughts and extreme weather events threatening the delicate balance of this fragile ecosystem.

Ankafobe is a living example of how vulnerable and yet vital Madagascar's unique highland forests are. Preserving this last forest is critical for the protection of global biodiversity.