National Lemur Day 2025

A powerful community movement to protect the Aye-Aye

On November 28, GERP celebrated National Lemur Day in the district of Ranomena, Midongy Atsimo commune, in the southeast of Madagascar. Held under the inspiring slogan “Iray ho an’ny varika ho fitsinjovana ny varika” (“United for lemurs, for their future”), the event brought together a large and committed community to advocate for lemur conservation—particularly the Aye-Aye, a species often threatened by deep-rooted superstitions.

Long considered a bad omen, the Aye-Aye still suffers from misconceptions that endanger its survival. This special day offered an opportunity to shift perceptions, share accurate knowledge, and highlight the ecological importance of this unique species.

The festivities began with a vibrant carnival, gathering students from EPP Ranomena and the Ranomena College, along with local residents, partners, and authorities working in the conservation sector. Official speeches then emphasized the importance of protecting lemurs and the forests they call home.

Thanks to this strong collective engagement, more than 1,200 people attended the event and received awareness messages. This remarkable turnout demonstrates the willingness of local communities to unite in the protection of their natural heritage.

This event marks another important milestone in GERP’s ongoing efforts to promote conservation, strengthen environmental education, and safeguard threatened species such as the Aye-Aye.

The festivities began with a vibrant carnival, gathering students from EPP Ranomena and the Ranomena College, along with local residents, partners, and authorities working in the conservation sector.

A short awareness-raising performance by students from Ranomena College.

carnival

Local communities attending the celebration.