The foundation was created when I, visited Madagascar on a year long research trip, which swiftly turned into 18 month adventure, carrying out research in Sainte Luce, southeast of Madagascar. Over the year it became abundantly clear to that very little work was being done to help and protect locals.
It was also brought to attention that a mine would be coming to the area, resulting in the whole community of Sainte Luce having to be displaced. This mine will result in areas of forest being cut down and locals having to leave their homes and search for new land to purchase and live on. This isn't an easy task, especially as the majority of people living here where born and raised in the very houses they are being asked to leave. Unfortunately nothing can be done about the mine, but something can be done for the local communities that reside in the Sainte Luce area.
Our goal
The goal is to help create sustainable incomes for local communities as well as solutions for some of the difficulties these villages face.
1. Create sustainable livelihoods for locals
2. Provide a fair wage to both the guides and local communities
3. Have the communities take the lead role in developing and creating projects that they are passionate about.
Many of the organisations that work in Madagascar are wildlife orientated, or fail to create long term income options for the communities they work in. We hope to collaborate with the local community, creating solutions that work for them.
Participatory mapping
Our organisation is built from local people for the benefit of tourists and local people and the communities they grew up in. We are developing solutions to the problems that locals face within their communities by speaking and listening to locals. We do this using a technique called participatory mapping, which Bethany learned during her academic career. This technique uses games and drawing of maps to understand how locals see their lives. This is a technique that takes time, as it doesn't use direct questioning to learn specific information. It directly aims not to ask specific questions that most often only give a predetermined outcome or result. Participatory mapping relies on the researcher getting involved with locals understanding their day to day lives, watching behaviours and getting involved when they are allowed by the community.
By listening to the community we will understand their needs, their prioritise and the solutions they need to improve their lives.
Our promise
Miremby Foundation promises first and foremost to benefit the local communities in which we plan our tours. A part of the cost of each trip goes to villages we visit and the local guides while bringing an experience to tourists that is rarely offered by big multi destination tour operators.
Donate here: scan the QR code or click the link to donate, any amount is welcome
