For years, the water and forest technicians of Madagascar have been struggling to protect the roughly 3 million hectares of classified forests in the country. But between the small number of forest rangers – fewer than 250 for the entire territory – the limited resources at their disposal, and the extent of pressures on resources, the task is proving nearly impossible.

"We do not have weapons. It has become very dangerous. We are afraid to go alone into the forest," testifies a forest ranger from the western part of the island, who requested anonymity. Yet, carrying weapons among forest rangers is a legal provision inscribed in forest legislation.

"Formerly, 10 years ago, we were authorized to carry weapons. I, currently, still have my weapon from the forest administration. But I have had no ammunition for a long time. So we are claiming the right to carry weapons again in working order because our work in the field has become very complicated," explains Tovoniaina Rakotonanahary, director of environment and sustainable development for the Analanjirofo region.

In 2020, regional directors all recorded an increase in violations in their protected areas. Populations in the surrounding areas impoverished by the pandemic, mining operators, poachers: forests have never been so aggressively attacked.

So, "we had to make do," continues Tovoniaina Rakotonanahary, whose team is made up of only 11 agents. "We do not have many men in the field. This is why we have asked for reinforcement from the national police, the gendarmerie or the military when we go down to the field," he adds.

But the presence of armed law enforcement forces, while armed, is clearly no longer enough to deter traffickers or a population in need. On January 20th, 3 people lost their lives following an arrest for illegal deforestation. All are now appealing to the state to urgently increase personnel and resources.