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The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) of the Global Environment Facility approved funding for the BioTAct project, to help Madagascar (one of the world’s most renowned biodiversity hotspots) address growing threats to its diverse range of species.
This BioTAct project, which stands for "Transforming the Global Biodiversity Framework into Tangible Action in Madagascar," seeks to restore populations of threatened species, protect their critical habitats, and enhance the management of protected areas across five priority sites totaling nearly 1.24 million hectares globally, including more than 80,000 hectares in marine areas.
Co-designed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Government of Madagascar through the General Directorate of Environmental Governance of the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (MEDD), the project aims to align national conservation strategies with international commitments, while transforming these commitments into concrete actions on the ground.
“Madagascar is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding its extraordinary natural heritage—an irreplaceable global treasure facing unprecedented threats,” said Max Andonirina Fontaine, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development of Madagascar. “This is not just about conservation; it is about redefining our relationship with nature and ensuring that biodiversity becomes a foundation for sustainable prosperity. With the backing of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund of the GEF, we are not only honoring our international commitments but transforming them into bold, concrete actions that make a real difference on the ground. This funding is a catalyst—one that will drive the large-scale restoration of threatened species, fortify the protection of their critical habitats, and set a new standard for the management of our protected areas, both on land and at sea.
“Our strategy is clear and uncompromising: we are fostering strong national ownership, investing in the capacity of our local actors, and forging dynamic partnerships with GEF agencies, the private sector, and our technical and financial allies. We are not here to manage decline—we are here to reverse it. Every dollar invested must generate measurable, lasting, and inclusive impact. This is about delivering results that directly improve the lives of the Malagasy people, strengthen our ecological resilience, and position Madagascar as a global leader in pioneering nature-based solutions. We are not waiting for change—we are driving it.”
“Madagascar is one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots, with many species that are not found anywhere else on Earth,” said IUCN Director General, Grethel Aguilar. “This unique part of our planet is losing a significant percentage of its natural vegetation, and its habitats are severely fragmented. In a time of need, the BioTAct project will deliver positive outcomes for threatened species, their habitats, and the country’s 30 million people that depend on nature to survive. The project will translate the Global Biodiversity Framework into concrete actions on the ground. IUCN stands ready to support with its extensive knowledge, standards and network.”
“Conservation of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity is important for the world and the Malagasy people themselves,” said Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO and Chairperson of the GEF. “The country has proven to be deeply committed to implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework, and Minister Fontaine has the political commitment to make Madagascar one of the fastest countries to use resources from the GEF’s Global Biodiversity Fund. With additional funding from the GEF Trust Fund, the resources from the GBFF will support Madagascar’s effort to protect species and increase policy coherence for its environmental agenda.”
“The BioTAct project is a tremendous opportunity to deliver results towards implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework on the ground via the Madagascar government, IUCN, and various partners,” said Luther Anukur, Regional Director of the IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office. “This critical GEF financing will bring value to vulnerable communities and advances our ongoing efforts in endangered and endemic species conservation across the megadiverse island.”
Over the past decade, Madagascar's biodiversity has faced unprecedented challenges - namely deforestation, habitat destruction, invasive species, climate change, and land degradation.
National reports under the Rio Conventions have consistently highlighted these threats. However, conservation efforts have largely been limited to protected areas management, leaving gaps in addressing invasive species, threatened species recovery, and other critical issues like climate resilience. This project will address these gaps.
BioTAct adopts a participatory and inclusive approach, collaborating with local communities and private sector stakeholders, including the mining industry. It integrates ecological restoration and recovery programs for threatened species, enhancing Madagascar’s resilience to climate change while strengthening the livelihoods of local communities. By also focusing on capacity building and innovative financing, BioTAct aims to ensure the long-term success of conservation efforts.
With $41 million mobilized in co-financing, this project illustrates Madagascar's determination to restore its invaluable natural heritage, and reflects the country’s vision for a more sustainable, resilient future - one where nature and people thrive together.
Originally published by IUCN.
