Mauricette Marie Rajaobelina

I am Mauricette Marie Rajaobelina. I am 27 years old. I am from Madagascar, and I am a Primatologist at the University of Antananarivo.

Since the beginning of my academic career, I have dedicated all my time, efforts, and research to the study of lemurs, the emblematic animals of Malagasy biodiversity, as well as to everything related to their ecosystems.

Passionate about nature and deeply committed to environmental protection, I have combined field research, scientific analysis, and community outreach initiatives to contribute to the conservation of these unique primates. Through my work, in collaboration with NGOs, universities, and local communities, I strive to highlight the biological importance of lemurs and the urgent need to protect their threatened habitats.

Now, I am expanding my skills and experience through the Darwin200 Leaders program, working on another primate species living outside Madagascar — the baboons (Papio ursinus) of the Cape Peninsula, in Cape Town — focusing on the coexistence between humans and these primates. Drawing on my extensive experience in direct contact with nature, I aim to build a bridge between science and public awareness, inspiring greater respect and action for endangered species and fragile ecosystems.
LOCATION: Cape Town AREA OF STUDY: Baboon
NATIONALITY: Madagascar SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER: Elliot Connor
START DATE: 27th August
END DATE: 2nd September
LOCATION: Cape Town
END POINT: Madagascar
AREA OF STUDY: Baboon
SPONSOR:
FILMMAKER: Elliot Connor
Area of Study: baboons in town

Baboon Town is a research project conducted in Cape Town, South Africa, from April 19–27, by Rajaobelina Marie Mauricette in collaboration with the Institute for Communities and Wildlife in Africa (iCWild). The study investigates the long-standing and evolving conflict between humans and Chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), a highly adaptable primate species known for thriving in human-altered environments. Fieldwork focused on Simon’s Town, a hotspot for baboon intrusions.

The project explores the issue across three timeframes. The past segment reveals how baboons and humans coexisted before urbanization, highlighting archaeological evidence and the impact of early colonial land use. The present study documents baboon behavior, intergenerational learning, and resident testimonies, revealing a deeply divided community grappling with escalating interactions and inadequate waste management. Baboons are drawn by unsecured food sources, while opinions on their presence range from protective to hostile.

Looking to the future, the project examines proposed solutions including improved waste practices, public education, fencing, and targeted relocation of dominant males. Emphasizing the complexity of coexistence, the project calls for a balanced, evidence-based strategy that respects both human and wildlife needs, aiming to foster sustainable, peaceful coexistence in an increasingly shared space.

Project Films

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Project Reports

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