Expanding Access to Water Safety Education in Coastal Communities of Madagascar

Led by MADA Megafauna in partnership with the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, the project worked throughout 2025 to strengthen water safety in coastal communities of Madagascar. Across three periods from March to December, swimming lessons, awareness activities and lifeguard training were delivered to help children gain confidence, skills, and safer behaviours in the water.

A total of 509 children joined at least one session, and 305 completed a final evaluation conducted by certified lifeguards. By year’s end, 295 participants had achieved a recognised level of aquatic competency, from basic floating to swimming 25 metres or mastering several strokes.

Public awareness initiatives and graduation ceremonies brought families together, reinforcing safe practices and celebrating the children’s progress. Through this combined approach, the program is helping build a stronger culture of water safety in Madagascar’s coastal communities

©MADA Megafauna