Voices From the Marsh: Livelihood Concerns of Fishers and Rice Cultivators in the Alaotra Wetland

Abstract

"Lake Alaotra is the largest lake on Madagascar and is a centre of rice and freshwater fish production. The lake and its wetland also provide important habitat for endemic wildlife. In 2003 the Alaotra wetland system was designated a Ramsar site and has subsequently been recognized as an official protected area by the Government of Madagascar. While community - based conservation initiatives have led to active involvement of some lakeside communities in the conservation of the aquatic system, wetland destruction continues. The extent to which individuals within these communities perceive the protection of the environment as their priority remains unclear. The current study collected socio-economic data from fishers and rice cultivators living in Anororo, a small town situated on the west coast of Lake Alaotra. Results suggest that livelihood security within these groups is limited. While they hope for better protection of the environment their primary concern is for external investment in their professions. These results highlight the need for solutions to be found to meet current livelihood priorities while efforts continue to conserve natural resources for the future."