ReefDoctor is an NGO focusing on research, education, and conservation in the Bay of Ranobe in the Toliara region of Southwest Madagascar. Toliara is the poorest province in Madagascar, with the majority of the population depending on dwindling marine resources for their survival and livelihood. ReefDoctor works in collaboration with local communities to develop and implement resource management policies, as well as supplementing local education with a focus on marine conservation so that future generations can better restore, protect, and maintain the vital resources the ocean provides to the people of this region.

These educational programs, including Kids’ club, ReefDoctor Juniors, and English classes, are conducted in our on-site schoolhouse. Cyclone activity over the past two years caused heavy structural damage to the school, and last year an inaugural relay race out to the bay’s first established marine protected area (MPA), Rose Garden, was held to raise funds for the school’s renovation. The fundraiser was a massive success, with over £700 raised and the brand new schoolhouse completed in December 2015.

Building on the success of last year, we are excited to announce 2nd annual MPA Relay Race, to be held on April 15th. Teams from ReefDoctor and nearby village Mangily will compete against the reigning champions from Ifaty in a 5km swimming race to Rose Garden and back – this time without snorkels and fins. The victorious team will win the coveted title as well as a goat!

This year, we aim to raise £600 to begin the construction of what will be the first public library in Ifaty. We are working with other NGOs and non-profits in the region to secure a source for books, but before we can receive materials for the library we need to have a place to store them. This is where YOU can help! Every donation received will directly fund the purchasing of cement, re-bar, and glass needed to make bookshelves that are impenetrable to vermin and cockroaches, as well as the brick needed for the library structure.

While literacy rates in Madagascar are estimated around 65%, in the rural villages situated around the bay they are much lower, around 30-40%. Low literacy rates make it difficult for people to progress economically, as their job options are very limited. The library will provide increased educational opportunities for the local Vezo people, leading to higher literacy rates, alternative livelihoods, and the chance for a sustainable future in the Bay of Ranobe.

Conservation is a team effort, and we couldn’t do it without the generosity of concerned global citizens such as yourselves so please donate anything you can. In one of the most impoverished nations in the world, every little bit goes a long way. Thank you!