About Us
In 2010, Dr. Edward Louis, who has worked in Madagascar since 1998, established the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP), a Malagasy non-governmental organization created to expand innovative conservation projects throughout the country.
MBP is dedicated to protecting Madagascar’s unique forests and biodiversity while sustainably improving the quality of life for local communities that rely heavily on natural resources. Guided by the belief that “everything is connected,” or “Mampifandray ny tontolo,” MBP combines conservation, education, research, and community development to achieve long-term sustainability for both people and the environment.
Through this volunteer program, MBP aims to support conservation research, community-based conservation, education, and outreach activities. Volunteers contribute to projects that help preserve the environment, support sustainable development, and strengthen local understanding of conservation challenges and solutions.
MBP works closely with local communities to encourage environmental awareness, improve educational opportunities, and create empowerment initiatives that benefit residents living near conservation areas. Volunteers may assist with environmental education, research support, outreach programs, and other community-focused activities designed to create a lasting positive impact.
The main project site is the Grewcock Ihofa Vohitsara Bioreserve (GIVB) in central-east Madagascar. This area is rich in biodiversity and provides volunteers with a unique opportunity to experience Madagascar’s natural beauty while contributing to meaningful conservation and community efforts.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Our 12-week volunteer research program offers a unique opportunity to take part in important conservation efforts in Madagascar. Madagascar is the only place in the world where lemurs exist in the wild, yet many species are highly threatened. By joining MBP, volunteers directly contribute to the protection and monitoring of three key lemur species central to our research program.
MBP volunteers gain practical skills and valuable work experience in behavioral studies, scientific data collection, agriculture, and personnel management. Volunteers also become immersed in Malagasy culture by working closely with local guides, MBP staff, and community members, creating a meaningful and educational experience both professionally and culturally.
Requirements
- BA or BS in the biological or environmental sciences. But we consider the willingness to work in isolated conditions, the ability to solve problems independently.
- If you have any food restrictions, please notify us before you start your field work.
Volunteer experience
- Breakfast will be served at 6 am, lunch between: 12 - 12h30 pm while dinner from 6-7 pm. You will generally finish your placement at around 4pm. Volunteers are free to the time that suits them for breakfast on weekends.
- You will follow social groups of lemurs during the first half of the program: forest walks to record lemur behavior, diet, home range, and movement…
- You will contribute to habitat restoration activities on second half, along with community develpment, english class sessions.
Regarding your skills, you can also be involved in other activities during the program: sustainable agricultural practices, horticulture, cooking session, ecotourism support, outreach and art workshop.
$27 USD Per Day
- At GIVB (central east), we offer ecolodges in wooden structures, including twin beds or normal sized bed, convenient direct interior access to shower, sink, and flushing toilet; solar power lights and powered plugs.
- Number of Volunteers: 7-8
Three meals a day: which are usually rice-based, so be prepared for a repetitive diet!
We have an open-fire kitchen and dining hall at two of our field stations but in addition we have the “Antampom’ny Ala Resto” or “Top of the Forest Dining Hall” at GIVB.
Volunteers can travel to Andasibe or Moramanga or any other villages nearby for cultural exchange.
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