You will no doubt have seen recent reports about protests and political unrest in Madagascar. Youth-led demonstrations, driven by widespread frustration and dissatisfaction, have resulted in the former president leaving the country and a new, military-based interim administration taking over until elections can be held.

After a year that has already brought cyclones, rising food insecurity, international aid cuts, and increased tariffs, this political uncertainty is yet another challenge for communities and for organisations like SEED, working to help bring stability and opportunity.

While protests have sadly led to loss of life and injury in Antananarivo, we are relieved to report that Fort Dauphin has remained calm. There have been no immediate impacts on our SEED team or the communities we work with. Our programmes continue to operate as normal, with only minor disruption to international travel, and we are maintaining our impact across all areas of work.

Despite these national challenges, our teams continue to deliver essential projects in health, education, and conservation. Recently, we have completed new school classrooms, expanded reforestation efforts through community nurseries, and supported local families in building stronger livelihoods. These achievements remind us that progress and partnership continue, even in times of uncertainty.

In the longer term, we anticipate that political instability may bring new risks and economic challenges for both communities and biodiversity. The SEED team is committed to doing everything we can to help people weather these difficulties, and we stand alongside our Malagasy colleagues and partners in hoping that these changes will ultimately lead to the strong and stable leadership Madagascar deserves.

We are deeply grateful for your continued faith in our work. Your support ensures that, whatever happens nationally, SEED remains a constant and trusted presence for the communities of southeast Madagascar.

If you would like to support our ongoing work to build community and environmental resilience in Madagascar, you can contribute to our continuing appeal. We are, as always, very happy to answer any questions you may have as events unfold.

Together, we remain confident that hope, cooperation, and resilience will carry Madagascar forward toward a brighter and more stable future.

With warm regards and hope for the future,

Mark

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