EN 
FR Nirinasoa Patricia
Preserving coastal ecosystems
VOI Fia tsara - Fénérive-Est, Analanjirofo Region
A Woman Is Making Changes In Madagascar's Small Village
Maintirano is the capital of the Melaky region. It is a small town on the western coast of Madagascar. The town’s economy revolves around fishing, which is a major source of income for its residents. The surrounding area of Maintirano features a variety of wildlife like mangroves. Unfortunately, Maintirano faces environmental challenges such as cutting trees without proper permit and illegal fishing. Luckily, the population can count on a woman who's making big impact in this small village.
Her Parents Serve As Role Models
Nirinasoa Patricia has always loved protecting nature on land and in the sea. She began focusing on ocean protection in 2015 when she joined the "Vezo Miray" association. After that, she is staying committed by joining groups preserving forests and nature. She does this out of passion, inspired by her parents, who are fishermen and defend the ocean themselves. She does not expect payment for her work. For her, an ocean advocate protects the ocean’s wealth, the marine ecosystem, and fishermen. There are many other conservationists, both inside and outside their association. But her motivation drives her to be an advocate. "My life is deeply connected to this mission,", she said "My family—my parents, children, and husband—are all fishermen. This strong connection keeps me committed."
Nirinasoa Patricia has always loved protecting nature on land and in the sea. She began focusing on ocean protection in 2015 when she joined the "Vezo Miray" association. After that, she is staying committed by joining groups preserving forests and nature. She does this out of passion, inspired by her parents, who are fishermen and defend the ocean themselves. She does not expect payment for her work. For her, an ocean advocate protects the ocean’s wealth, the marine ecosystem, and fishermen. There are many other conservationists, both inside and outside their association. But her motivation drives her to be an advocate. "My life is deeply connected to this mission," she said. "My family—my parents, children, and husband—are all fishermen. This strong connection keeps me committed." "They see me as responsible for these areas", she explained proudly. “This recognition fills me with joy and comfort. It shows that my efforts are appreciated and that I play a vital role in my community and my mission.”
Patricia insists on sending strong messages to two types of people. For those who defend the marine ecosystem, she wants them to know that protecting the marine ecosystem is a noble mission. Our natural resources are here. The benefits will come to you if you continue to enforce the law. Your efforts help preserve our resources for future generations. Anglers, carry your fishing licenses to avoid being perceived as illegal.. » And for those who destroy, « Stop cutting down mangroves. Mangroves benefit us all. They protect us from cyclones, purify our air, and provide medicine and food. By continuing harmful practices, our environment, health, and livelihoods will be damaged."
The War Is Not Over
When Patricia first joined an association called “Vezo Miray,” their president asked for volunteers to protect the village from illegal activities like logging and illegal fishing. She volunteered, even without pay, because no one else would do it. They did their job without equipment, often discovering illegal activities in progress. They spoke tactfully to the offenders, explaining the damage they were causing. She faced threats for her actions. Once, someone asked her: “Did you plant this tree? What did you do for this tree? Did you receive money from them? If you keep trying to stop us, you will pay the price.” They even threatened his life, saying, "If anyone takes us to court or a Vazaha (foreigner) comes to punish us, I will make you and your family suffer.", she says sadly.
Protecting marine and coastal ecosystems matters to her because it improves public health, strengthens fisheries, and increases their income from the sea. It’s also vital for future generations to inherit our marine wealth. Besides protecting the marine ecosystem, she focuses on saving mangroves. In Maintirano, several unique fish species depend on them. Mangroves provide shelter and food for these species, like the Tsiboenga (a lemur that lives in mangroves ) and the Jaboady or Satra (fish at risk of extinction). Planting mangroves helps restore and preserve this crucial ecosystem.
During surveillance missions, they often find illegal activities like cutting down mangroves. They approach the offenders carefully, explaining the harm they cause. But sometimes, they threaten us, which shows how tough our job is. But they never give up. They keep raising awareness, teaching the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. They work hard to convince people that illegal tree cutting hurts us all. Their efforts have changed the behavior of about a quarter of people. Protecting the ocean benefits everyone, so they must continue, even when facing threats.
Efforts Need To Be Done
People already see them as ocean defenders, but they want the government to support them more. They would like to join meetings and conferences with government representatives. Uniforms and badges would help the local community recognize their role. They also want to involve wealthy people who exploit mangroves in their awareness efforts. They need to understand why protecting these areas is so important. The government must pay special attention to their mission. They carry it out willingly, with love for their country and the marine ecosystem, but without weapons. If they ever get hurt or sick, they should receive help, like medication or health insurance.
They lack equipment like drones that could help deter illegal activities. Once, a foreigner flew a drone over their village and protected areas. The illegal loggers thought it was from the government and got scared. Corruption also complicates their work. Sometimes, government officials side with those they reprimand, which is discouraging. They do their best, but it feels like some officials don’t share their goals. They need to keep raising awareness and get more people involved. By including them in activities like planting mangroves, they will feel more motivated to protect nature. They can then spread the message, creating a ripple effect.
Patricia and the members of the association have tirelessly worked to protect Madagascar's marine ecosystem. Their efforts have earned them the respect and gratitude of the local community, who recognize them as true ocean defenders. Despite their commitment, they face significant challenges due to a lack of government support, funding, and equipment. To ensure their continued safety and success, it is imperative that the government provide the necessary resources and engage wealthy individuals in their awareness campaigns. By working together, we can create a lasting impact on preserving Madagascar's precious marine environment. Any donations to support their cause would be greatly appreciated.
- Antananarivo, Madagascar
- +261 38 82 548 67
- communication@natioradefenders.org
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