Malagasi Research Exchange with Cooperative Aknari
A 10 day research exchange on opuntia (cactus) valorisation in Morocco and Madagascar with our High Atlas Cooperative partners, facilitated by the GDF HACL team
The High Atlas Cultural Landscapes Programme (HACL) hosts an exchange on opuntia valorization in Morocco. A team of researchers, led by Tahina Rasolofoherisoa, is addressing invasive nature of Opuntia cacti in Itampolo, Madagascar, through community education and training. This issue is pressing due to the Opuntia threat to biodiversity, especially in drought-prone regions globally. The value chain of opuntia from fruit and jams to cactus seed oil offers a path for community livelihoods and management of biodiversity. They will learn from our network of cooperatives on opuntia transformation and teach these methods in Itampolo.
The core mission of the HACL Programme supports rural communities to revitalize traditional practices, preserve livelihoods, and restore nature. We are committed to helping cooperatives in the High Atlas and surrounding areas regenerate their agropastoral landscapes and improve local products. We are thrilled to host this exchange to support communities and cultural landscapes beyond the High Atlas.