Reefdoctor's Blog

The bay of Ranobe

ReefDoctor is a UK not-for-profit organisation conducting coral reef research, conservation and awareness, in the Toliara region of South West Madagascar.

Working in the small fishing village of Ifaty, 27km north of Toliara, ReefDoctor promotes sustainable conservation through the provision of environmental and coral reef education, alongside a practical programme of resource management education for the villagers.

ReefDoctor’s commitment to sustainable conservation is at the heart of all of our activities – to work with local communities and organisations to realise marine conservation alongside positive social development. Our core objectives have been formulated with this in mind.

Our core objectives

To conduct research into coral reef health within the Bay of Ranobe and monitor the coral reef ecosystem and associated artisanal fishery.

To promote and participate in the education of local communities, businesses and tourists about the fragility of coral reefs, how to protect them, and the benefits of sustainable fishing practices and responsible tourism.

To help conserve coral reef ecosystems through community-led coastal management projects such as marine protected areas and the development of alternative sustainable fishing areas.

To help local communities explore alternative livelihoods and the development of additional diversified incomes.

ReefDoctor has established strong working relationships with local educational institutions, including the University of Tulear and the local marine institute, Institut Halieutique et des Sciences Marines (IH.SM), and regional and national non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and conservation groups.