Fatshimetrie: The challenges of climate change in Madagascar
The island of Madagascar is facing major challenges related to the devastating effects of climate change. The inhabitants of this large island in the Indian Ocean are facing increasingly frequent cyclones in the eastern and northern regions, intense drought in the south, deadly floods in the center and rising waters along the coasts. These phenomena directly impact the daily lives of Malagasy people and force them to adapt to a constantly changing environment.
Leading figures of the youth engaged in environmental matters are emerging to raise awareness and take action in the face of these challenges. Among them, Vaoavy and Manantsoa, two fishermen who testify to the significant changes they have observed along the Malagasy coasts. Once abundant in fish, the sea now offers increasingly meager catches, directly impacting their livelihoods. In addition, the changing weather disrupts their daily activities, sometimes forcing them to stay at the dock.
Faced with these upheavals, Anja Radoharinirina, environmental activist and national coordinator of the Aika National Alliance, encourages the Malagasy population not to see themselves as passive victims, but to become agents of change. She emphasizes the importance of education and awareness-raising, particularly among children, to cultivate a love and respect for nature from a young age. According to her, it is by transmitting these values that we can hope to generate collective awareness and concrete actions in favor of the environment.
Eco-friendly actions, such as turning off taps, planting trees or greening neighborhoods and regions, are simple but crucial actions to preserve the environment. Anja encourages everyone to adopt these practices and abandon the feeling of helplessness in the face of climate change. She reminds us that everyone, at their own level, can contribute to the resilience of nature and the preservation of ecological balance.
In conclusion, Madagascar faces major environmental challenges, but the commitment of young activists and local actors suggests possible solutions. It is imperative to raise awareness among the population, instill environmental values and adopt eco-responsible practices to preserve the island’s natural wealth and ensure a sustainable future for future generations.