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SDG 14 Life Below Water

Supporting the creation of the Blue Action Fund

To address a global funding gap in marine conservation, we worked with KfW to establish the Blue Action Fund, a trust fund supporting NGOs in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Our role included shaping the strategy, operational framework, and governance structure.

We facilitated stakeholder workshops, developed key manuals, and supported the launch of the first call for proposals. Today, the Fund is a leading platform providing critical financial support for marine and coastal protection worldwide.

➡ Learn more: www.blueactionfund.org

Supporting Organisational Development of the Nature Trust Alliance (NTA)

We analysed potential synergies among conservation trust funds and developed a shared services model, resulting in the creation of the Nature Trust Alliance. This collaboration reduces administrative costs and allows members to focus on their core mission of biodiversity conservation.

Following NTA’s establishment, we facilitated strategic workshops and co-developed an operational manual with the team. Today, NTA strengthens cooperation among conservation funds, increasing efficiency and collective impact.

Developing a multi-stakeholder sustainable use of mangroves programme in Madagascar

Madagascar hosts around 20% of Africa’s mangroves, which are vital for coastal livelihoods and biodiversity. However, unsustainable wood extraction for charcoal and construction has led to alarming losses of mangrove cover, threatening ecosystems and community resilience. To address these challenges, we supported the development of a multi-stakeholder programme promoting mangrove reforestation, community-based resource governance, and alternative livelihoods. The programme, implemented by Madagascar’s national parks agency in cooperation with international and local NGOs, combines conservation goals with inclusive economic development.

We facilitated the participatory design process – from defining a shared vision at a national conference side event to coordinating project selection through an interactive pitch day. Selected NGO initiatives were integrated into a coherent programme concept, and a joint workshop using Metaplan and Theory U methods ensured harmonized approaches and monitoring. The result is a coordinated platform for restoring mangroves and supporting sustainable livelihoods along Madagascar’s coasts.