From 28 to 31 May 2026, the Centre Arrupe Madagascar (CA-MDG) carried out a transformative mission in the Diocese of Fénérive-Est through its Environment and Sustainable Development (EDD) and Health and Family Program (PSF). Bringing together local communities, students, community leaders, civil society actors and partner organizations, the mission focused on promoting environmental protection, climate resilience, social justice, gender equality and violence prevention.

The four-day initiative reflected CA-MDG’s holistic approach to development, recognizing the close connection between environmental sustainability, human dignity and community well-being. Through awareness campaigns, community dialogues, training sessions and public engagement activities, participants explored practical solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing their communities.

Raising Environmental Awareness Among the Youth

The mission began on 28 and 29 May with environmental awareness activities organized in collaboration with Ikotomaitso. The sessions were conducted at Ambataria Primary School, Amparatanana Primary School and Tsizaraina Emile High School, reaching nearly 500 students.

The focus of the awareness campaign was the reduction of plastic pollution, a growing environmental concern that threatens ecosystems and public health. Students were encouraged to rethink their daily habits and adopt more sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics. Discussions highlighted practical actions such as replacing plastic bags with reusable cloth bags and making environmentally responsible choices in everyday life.

Through interactive exchanges, students demonstrated enthusiasm for becoming agents of change within their schools, families and communities, helping to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility among the younger generation.

Strengthening Community Action Against Violence

As part of the Health and Family Program, CA-MDG organized a community awareness session attended by 75 participants, including community members and local leaders.

Drawing on findings from research conducted in Fénérive-Est in 2024, the discussions explored various forms of violence, their impact on individuals and communities, and the available mechanisms for reporting cases and supporting victims. Participants deepened their understanding of the social and psychological consequences of violence while examining ways to strengthen prevention efforts.

The dialogue underscored the critical role that communities play in protecting vulnerable individuals and fostering safe environments. One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the collective commitment to establish a community-based organization under the leadership of the Tangalamena. The initiative aims to sustain local efforts in preventing violence, supporting survivors and promoting peaceful coexistence.

Amplifying the Message Through Radio

To extend the reach of the awareness campaign, CA-MDG participated in a radio programme on the theme, “Together Against Violence Against Women and Girls.”

The broadcast created a platform for dialogue between stakeholders and listeners, enabling the wider community to engage with issues surrounding gender-based violence. Discussions emphasized the importance of reporting cases, listening to survivors, providing support services and fostering a culture that rejects silence and impunity.

Audience participation demonstrated a growing recognition that ending violence requires the active involvement of all members of society.

Exploring the Link Between Conservation, Social Justice and Climate Resilience

On 30 May, CA-MDG convened a conference under the theme “Balancing Conservation, Social Justice and Climate Resilience in the Analanjirofo Region.”

The conference brought together experts and community stakeholders to reflect on how environmental protection can be pursued alongside the social and economic needs of local populations.

Representatives from the Regional Directorate for Environment and Sustainable Development (DREDD) Analanjirofo highlighted the region’s rich biodiversity and explored opportunities for environmental financing, including mechanisms such as REDD+. Discussions emphasized the importance of ensuring that conservation efforts generate benefits for local communities while protecting natural resources.

A representative from the Tampolo Reserve shared experiences regarding conflicts that can arise within protected areas and presented approaches for preventing, understanding and constructively managing such disputes.

Participants were also introduced to the Territorial Living Laboratory, an innovative initiative designed to promote socio-ecological justice. The project seeks to create a more equitable balance between environmental conservation objectives and the economic realities faced by local communities.

Adding to the discussion, the President of the FAMELOGNO Association stressed the importance of community development and improved access to land, highlighting how secure access to productive resources can strengthen livelihoods and support income-generating activities.

Integrating Gender Perspectives into Climate Action

From 30 to 31 May, CA-MDG organized a Gender and Climate training workshop in partnership with ACAMA – Friends of Centre Arrupe Madagascar. The training brought together 25 participants committed to strengthening community resilience through climate action.

The sessions explored key concepts related to gender, gender relations, climate change and the social factors that contribute to inequality and violence, particularly against women and girls. Participants examined how climate challenges often disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and discussed strategies for creating more inclusive responses.

By deepening their understanding of the connections between gender justice and environmental sustainability, participants were equipped to integrate gender-sensitive approaches into their climate initiatives and community projects. The training reinforced the importance of ensuring that development and climate interventions reflect local realities while promoting fairness and inclusion.

A Shared Commitment to Sustainable Development

The mission to Fénérive-Est demonstrated Centre Arrupe Madagascar’s continued commitment to working alongside communities, local authorities and partners to develop practical and participatory solutions to complex social and environmental challenges.

Through education, dialogue, capacity building and community engagement, the mission fostered a collective vision of development rooted in resilience, inclusion and sustainability. As communities confront the interconnected realities of environmental degradation, climate change, social inequality and violence, initiatives such as these provide hope and concrete pathways toward lasting transformation.

By preventing violence, promoting environmental stewardship, strengthening community leadership and empowering local actors, Centre Arrupe Madagascar continues to contribute to building communities that are more resilient, inclusive and sustainable for future generations.

By, Communications Team,

Centre Arrupe Madagascar.