How does investing in biodiversity conservation lead to climate change resilience? IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has partnered with Madagascar National Parks (MNP) to conduct a set of feasibility studies that will provide answers to this question.

The project titled ‘Feasibility Study of the Climate Resilience for the Preservation of Biodiversity in Madagascar’ was launched on 15^th May 2019 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. 

Speaking at the launch, the IUCN Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa Mr. Luther Anukur said: “IUCN’s role in this feasibility study is to pave the way for future investments to demonstrate that the fundamental role of healthy natural ecosystems is recognized as indispensable for mitigation and adaptation to climate change.”   

The project which is funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) entails a number of feasibility studies aimed at helping MNP and AfDB to design a longer-term project that will support future private sector investments in eco-tourism in a number of protected areas managed by MNP. The ultimate goal is to set the standards for eco-tourism development that promotes biodiversity and climate change resilience.

The AfDB Country Manager, Mr. Mohamed Cherif, said: “It is our hope that the Feasibility Studies, which are very important for the country, will be carried out as quickly as possible to enable the preparation of the investment project to be financed by the African Development Bank Group and other partners.”  

The project launch was attended by over 60 people including representatives from the African Development Bank (AfDB), various line ministries of the Malagasy Government, staff from Madagascar National Parks, and several national park managers.  

The representative of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Mr. Georget Alexandre, said: “I am very pleased and honored to take part in the launch of the Feasibility Study of the Climate Resilience for the Preservation of Biodiversity in Madagascar today. The results will in the long run inform actions that will improve the socio-economic outcomes for Madagascar’s people. ”