Short synopsis 

Sébastien Wohlhauser, a passionate Swiss botanist, explores the relationship between humans and plants in Madagascar. This film unveils an exceptional flora, Malagasy plant traditions, and the threats to this heritage: deforestation and looting. The practices related to plants become a crucial political issue for the country’s future.

Statement of intent

I met Sébastien fifteen years ago under unfortunate circumstances. From this tragic event, a long and strong friendship was born. Both of us speak Malagasy, and we have both started families in Madagascar. But what has always mattered most to us is sharing, exchanging, and integrating into this country, trying to help it in our respective fields.

I followed Sébastien on his missions with my camera to witness his commitment. Through Sébastien, I will create an indirect portrait while he teaches us about plants and what they represent for the Malagasy, who also use them for healing. This film aims to highlight the link between nature and the population while addressing the issues of overexploitation of plants on an island that has no fuel resources.

How can we anticipate? How can we develop resources? How do we manage natural stocks to prevent them from disappearing? Sébastien points out the main flaws in the exploitation of nature using interactive maps that provide evidence of the disappearance of the baobab forest, in particular. But who is responsible? The individuals or industrial exploitation? What rules need to be respected?