It has been found that 90% of Malagasy households still use charcoal and firewood for cooking. This practice leads to accelerated deforestation in the areas concerned.

According to current data, charcoal represents a booming sector of activity, with an annual use of 7 million cubic meters in our country. In addition, firewood accounts for a significant share of the market, with a demand of 21 million cubic meters, mainly satisfied by rural residents. This demand is particularly high. This situation has harmful repercussions on the environment and public health. Forest fires exacerbate the problem. The gradual loss of forests, caused by intensive exploitation for energy production, is one of the main factors behind climate change. This situation has repercussions on agriculture, livestock farming and fishing, impacting production.

Farmers from Filamatra Soa Iombonana or FISOI in the commune of Mahitsy and SOAMITSINJO in Antanetibe Mahazaza, both in the Ambohidratrimo district, have realized the importance of protecting the environment. They led a major environmental initiative by collectively planting trees on members' land on March 6 and 7, 2025. For FISOI specifically, the planting took place on March 7 in Fokontany Bejofo, in the commune of Mahitsy. 90% of the population are farmers who use firewood as fuel. This initiative is part of a reforestation program supported by the FFF FAO in collaboration with the SOA Network.