Promoting agroforestry in Tsiatosika, Mananjary district, is key to a sustainable and prosperous future. This approach, blending agriculture with reforestation, preserves soil, regulates water cycles, protects biodiversity, and boosts agricultural productivity and local livelihoods. By adopting agroforestry, farmers can diversify income, reduce reliance on low-yield crops, and build climate resilience. The project also enhances natural resource management, restores ecosystems, and empowers farmers through training and partnerships, improving local living conditions while contributing to global goals like combating deforestation and climate change adaptation.

In Tsiatosika, people heavily depend on the forest for their livelihoods. The forest provides essential resources like firewood, construction materials, and food, including fruits and medicinal plants. However, we have seen many challenges in our area. Deforestation due to unsustainable farming practices and logging is a significant issue. The forest is degraded, which affects biodiversity and leads to soil erosion and reduced agricultural productivity.

Cyclones have had devastating impacts on the community, destroying crops and homes, leaving people more vulnerable to malnutrition. Many families struggle with food insecurity due to the loss of crops and farmland, which worsens poverty. The combination of environmental degradation and natural disasters has made it increasingly difficult for people to sustain their livelihoods, leading to a pressing need for more sustainable solutions like agroforestry.

Two pilot areas of about 3.5 ha have been planted on my family's land, and this project aims to plant 6000 trees across another 5 hectares with a variety of native and agroforestry species. Around 10-15 different species will be planted, focusing on both native forest species and agroforestry crops that provide ecological and economic benefits. We estimate that annual food harvests could range from 1-5 tonnes per hectare, and we project an increase in household income of approximately 20-30% through increased crop yield and the sale of surplus produce.

We will monitor the growth and health of trees by measuring height, diameter, and survival rates regularly. Community surveys will be conducted to assess the community’s satisfaction with the project. We expect the project to directly serve around 100-150 people.