By Kame Westerman, Velondriake MPA Project Coordinator, Andavadoaka, Madagascar. On Saturday, February 26th, Blue Ventures hosted an annual Open Day celebration in Andavadoaka to showcase our work to the local communities. In the BV classroom, marine conservation videos captivated audiences young and old, while staff conducted hands-on explanations of the various projects.
Of special interest were the family planning materials and a bucket of sea cucumbers. Outside, a marine-inspired sand sculpting competition had a number of creative entries, including hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, starfish, and a pirogue. The culminating event, a pirogue race to the permanent reserve, was very well attended with over 40 pirogues.