In 2025, Madagascar Protected Areas and Biodiversity Fund (FAPBM) celebrates twenty years of funding and action in service of Malagasy nature. Since its creation in 2005, FAPBM has become Africa’s leading private trust fund for biodiversity conservation, sustainably financing the management of protected areas in Madagascar and contributing to the socioeconomic development of local communities.
This anniversary marks a turning point. Twenty years on, FAPBM relies on a solid capital base of USD 157 million, funds 75 protected areas across the country, and mobilizes institutional partners, local NGOs, and communities every day to safeguard this unique natural heritage. Above all, this celebration is an opportunity to look ahead and reaffirm a core ambition: protecting our protected areas — a living legacy for future generations.
“Our mission is clear: to protect today, so that we may inspire wonder tomorrow.”
— Dr. Rija RANAIVOARISON, Executive Director of FAPBM
A vital mission for a unique heritage
FAPBM was founded on a powerful idea: ensuring sustainable funding for conservation. Its model is built on a simple yet effective principle — the invested capital remains intact, and only the returns generated are used to fund field activities. This innovative approach supports protected area managers, strengthens local NGO capacity, and creates opportunities for neighboring communities.
In twenty years, the results speak for themselves. FAPBM now supports 75 of Madagascar’s 125 protected areas, covering more than eight million hectares. Thousands of families have seen their living conditions improve through sustainable income-generating activities. The funded projects directly contribute to protecting endemic species, restoring fragile ecosystems, and raising local awareness.
To learn more about the Foundation’s role, visit the official page: Who We Are.
A historic celebration in Antananarivo
FAPBM 20th anniversary celebration was held under the patronage of the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Max Andonirina FONTAINE. Three major events marked this milestone:
The capital contributors’ meeting
Around the table, contributors, donors, partners, Board members, and staff shared results, concrete achievements, and visions for the future. A strategic and candid moment that strengthened the foundations of sustainable conservation. This annual meeting highlighted the historic commitment of FAPBM’s many capital contributors.
The conference on 20 years of protected area funding in Madagascar
On June 19, 2025, FAPBM organized a landmark conference in Antananarivo to celebrate its 20th anniversary. The event brought together institutional stakeholders, donors, researchers, NGOs, protected area managers, and local community representatives.
Themed “20 Years of Funding Protected Areas in Madagascar,” the conference provided a comprehensive review of achievements and collective reflection on future challenges. Topics included combating climate change impacts, the growing involvement of local communities in natural resource management, and the need to broaden the funding base to sustainably secure protected areas.
The celebration evening
The day was also an occasion to honor the Foundation’s founders, former leaders, and managers who, for twenty years, have worked with dedication toward the success of this mission. Their combined efforts have made FAPBM a benchmark in Africa for the sustainable management of biodiversity funds.
20 years of impact: results that speak for themselves
Since 2005, FAPBM has demonstrated that stable, well-managed funding can tangibly improve biodiversity conservation. With USD 157 million in capital, the Foundation has established robust mechanisms to sustainably support protected area managers and local communities. Thanks to its support, 75 protected areas receive sufficient financial resources for monitoring, habitat restoration, manager training, and income-generating activities for surrounding populations.
Results are also visible in the improved performance of protected area managers. Year after year, management quality is improving: sites supported by FAPBM show better ecological indicators, stronger community involvement, and greater resilience to external pressures. This virtuous cycle demonstrates that with sustainable funding, the impacts are concrete and significant.
To discover all funded projects, visit: Projects and Programs.
Madagascar: a global jewel to preserve
Madagascar is globally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot. More than 80% of the species found on the island are endemic. Yet this exceptional heritage is now threatened by deforestation, poaching, illegal exploitation of natural resources, and the effects of climate change.
In the face of these mounting pressures, FAPBM acts as a catalyst. By funding structural projects and mobilizing local stakeholders, it works to protect forests, restore degraded ecosystems, and support sustainable natural resource management practices. It is a model where nature preservation goes hand in hand with improving people’s living conditions.
A clear vision for the next 20 years
This anniversary is not just a moment of celebration — it marks the launch of an ambitious new roadmap. FAPBM aims to strengthen its role as a leader in conservation funding and increase its impact on the ground. Four priorities will guide its actions over the next two decades:
First, strengthening governance and transparency through modern digital tools and more effective evaluation mechanisms. Second, mobilizing new funding by diversifying sources of support, particularly through private sector partnerships and innovative green finance initiatives. Third, involving local communities more deeply in the management and protection of protected areas by offering them sustainable economic opportunities. Finally, the Foundation aims to expand its international reach and share its experience with other trust funds to inspire similar models worldwide.
Protecting today to inspire wonder tomorrow
FAPBM’s 20 years bear witness to the strength of a collective vision: uniting institutional actors, local communities, and international partners around a common goal. But this is only the beginning. As Madagascar faces major environmental challenges, the Foundation reaffirms its commitment and opens a new chapter in its story.
To learn more about our projects and news, visit: FAPBM News.
