In Ankarana National Park, the Mahamasina Women’s Association (Fikambanan’ny Vehivavy Mahamasina-FIVEAMA) offers an authentic experience combining a journey into nature with the culture discovery. On the program: traditional case-bungalows, local food, handicraft ecoshop, local culture museum and a dive into Antakarana history and customs through a walk to the sacred lakes of Mahamasina.
Craftswomen, farmers, beekeepers, etc. women from Mahamasina gathered in an association to build a value chain around community tourism. Founded in 2004 and formally in 2012, the association now has nearly 40 members. Through the multiple activities of the Association, members find outlets for their production and improve their incomes, because part of the revenues are returned to the members, 10% are allocated to the operation of the Association.
Their commitment to the conservation of the protected area brought them together and enabled them to gain the support of partners from beginning. They are actively involved in the reforestation and restoration efforts of MNP, which in turn supports member capacity building in terms of management. SAGE also supported the rehabilitation of the ecoshop around 2015.
Like all tourism stakeholders, they are looking forward to the effective reopening of borders. In the meantime, they continue to maintain the infrastructure and mobilize partnerships for the promotion of their activities and the securing of the circuit, on which guides are not allowed to bring tourists without their permission.
To support them, contact Ms Denise or Ms Augustine on 034 76 210 15 or 032 12 754 05.
