Notably, the Regional Development Director, the Ambohimahasoa District Chief, the Regional Director of Environment and Forests, the Inter-Regional Director of Mines, the Representative of the operators, as well as Civil Society Organizations working on natural resource management such as Alliance Voahary Gasy, Madagascar National Parks, and the NGO Tandavanala.
The goal is to establish better management of natural resources in these Districts while addressing all issues that may hinder achieving this goal.
The public debate was broadcast live on Radio Ainga Ambohimahasoa to ensure it was participatory and that the general public could also take part. As a result, around twenty calls were received on Alliance Voahary Gasy’s green line 512. Listeners and debate guests were able to share their concerns and opinions regarding the observations made on site:
Several participants claimed to be unaware of the laws governing mining operations, which leads to and encourages illegal mining activities.
The lack of responsibility from each individual, leader, or citizen is one of the causes of the increase in illegal mining in these sectors.
Poverty drives the population to exploit natural resources to meet their daily needs.
Discussions and resolutions were then made so that each stakeholder could be aware of the roles they need to play regarding the destruction of our natural resources:
- Communication between entities must be fluid so that all information can be processed in time, leading to rapid decision-making.
- Mining operations can be carried out legally if authorized by the mining cadastre; however, mining in Protected Areas is strictly prohibited.
- Every individual, citizen, or leader at all levels must take responsibility in the management of natural resources, especially in the face of pressures in their jurisdiction.
- Environmental protection should be taught to children in schools to instill the concept of responsibility from an early age.
The public debate was able to gather a wide audience as participants, whether in the hall or listening to Radio Ainga live, were highly representative. Everyone could receive the explanations and responses needed to establish the best management of our natural resources.