Madagascar and Congo-Brazzaville have strengthened environmental cooperation in a renewed effort to protect their rich but vulnerable forests. 

This commitment was reaffirmed on March 3 during a large-scale reforestation initiative in Madagascar, where 3,000 trees were planted in the Ankazobe district, near Antananarivo.

The partnership marks a significant step in South-South cooperation, with both nations pledging to share knowledge, technology, and resources to combat deforestation. 

Patrick Rajoelina, Special Advisor on Diplomacy to Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina, highlighted that this collaboration aligns with Madagascar’s broader efforts to strengthen ties with African countries, particularly following its campaign for the African Union Commission presidency.

Congo-Brazzaville, which has maintained a relatively low deforestation rate, brings experience in afforestation and forest conservation to the partnership. Meanwhile, Madagascar, despite losing half its forests over the past 60 years, has developed expertise in biodiversity-based industries and national park management. 

Congolese Ambassador to Madagascar, Constant-Serge Bounda, emphasized that the collaboration would enable both countries to learn from each other’s strengths.

“We are here for an exchange that allows all parties to benefit from each other’s experiences,” he said. 

While the initiative signals a diplomatic and environmental milestone, details regarding concrete projects, financial investments, and measurable objectives remain unclear. 

Civil society groups in Madagascar remain cautious, questioning President Rajoelina’s long-term commitment to conservation. 

Concerns persist over infrastructure projects like the proposed Antananarivo-Tamatave highway, which environmental activists argue could threaten the nation’s remaining primary forests.

Despite these concerns, the renewed agreement between Madagascar and Congo-Brazzaville represents a step toward greater regional cooperation in the fight against deforestation and the preservation of Africa’s natural heritage.