On August 27, 2024, the Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND), in partnership with the National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC) and with funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA-SWEDEN), delivered two new vehicles under the Biodiversity Conservation Program (2023-2027), coordinated by BIOFUND. These vehicles are designated for the Pomene National Reserve (RNP) and the Maputo Environmental Protection Area (APA Maputo), priority areas within the program.
Samiro Magane, Program Coordinator, emphasized the importance of this delivery in the context of BIOFUND and ANAC’s efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of Mozambique’s Conservation Areas. “These vehicles are a concrete example of how we are transforming financial resources into practical actions that directly support the protection of the country’s vital ecosystems. Our partnership with ANAC is crucial to ensuring that Conservation Areas have the necessary tools to address environmental challenges effectively and sustainably,” stated Magane.
Frida Rodhe, a representative from the Swedish Embassy, highlighted that this action goes beyond logistical support, representing Sweden’s ongoing commitment to biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation in Mozambique. “The Swedish Government recognizes that biodiversity conservation is intrinsically linked to climate issues and that strengthening operational capacities in protected areas is essential to addressing both challenges in an integrated manner. These resources are fundamental to ensuring that field teams can perform their duties efficiently, protecting critical ecosystems and enhancing the resilience of local communities in the face of climate change,” explained Rodhe.
Pejul Calenga, Director General of ANAC, praised the vehicle delivery as a significant step forward in strengthening conservation capacities. “With these resources and initiatives, Conservation Areas will be better equipped to tackle current conservation challenges, ensure sustainable biodiversity management, and bring significant benefits to local communities,” said Calenga.
He further noted that the support provided by the Biodiversity Conservation Program also aims to assist in the restructuring of the National Conservation Areas Network, the operationalization of the Malhazine Ecological Park, and the reclassification of the Lake Niassa Partial Reserve.
Calenga concluded by expressing optimism that this support would lead to significant improvements in conservation and biodiversity protection operations in the beneficiary areas, enhancing the effectiveness of patrols and enabling quicker responses to emergencies, thereby strengthening enforcement efforts.
