The Marine Biodiversity Conference is an initiative of the Blue Future Project that establishes a platform for synergies and experiences on the conservation of coastal and marine biodiversity, where the government, the civil society, local communities, academia and the private sector can discuss and exchange experiences on the expansion and management of marine conservation areas, marine ecosystem-based management and the contribution of science, art and culture to the enhancement of our country’s coastal and marine biodiversity.
The Marine Biodiversity Conference is led by BIOFUND, as part of a commitment under the Blue Future project, led by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and financed by the Blue Action Fund (BAF). The event is modelled on previous biodiversity conferences and exhibitions, and will be held annually, having started in 2023.
The main aim of the Marine Biodiversity Conference is to create synergies with various marine and coastal conservation actions in the country, share knowledge with local communities and other key players, and inspire young Mozambicans. These actions will be carried out with the following objectives:
Promote the exchange of technical-scientific knowledge and experiences on marine conservation and marine conservation areas in Mozambique
Spread the importance of coastal and marine biodiversity.
The 1st edition of the MBC, which took place from 27 July to 2 August 2023 at the Museu do Mar in Maputo City, aimed to establish a platform for synergies and communication on the conservation of coastal and marine biodiversity in Mozambique, through art, culture, discussion sessions and an exhibition of Mozambique’s coastal and marine biodiversity. Three thematic areas were covered, namely (i.) the expansion and management of marine conservation areas, (ii.) marine ecosystem-based management and (iii.) the contribution of science, art and culture to the enhancement of our country’s coastal and marine biodiversity.
More than 30 renowned facilitators and speakers working in the marine conservation sector in Mozambique and other related areas at regional level took part in the event. Over 400 people attended the 1st edition of the MBC.
For further information you can access the report HERE and images Here
From 27 July to 02 August 2023, the Museu do Mar hosted the marine biodiversity exhibition consisting of information panels on marine habitats and species, photographs, a 3D experience of the marine environment and recycling workshops engaging 85 primary school pupils from Maputo City and Katembe. See the photographic record of these exhibition and environmental education activities.
Following the launch of the1st edition of the Marine Biodiversity Conference in Maputo, Nacala-Porto town will host the 2nd edition of this emblematic event from 17 to 23 June 2024. Nacala-Porto was chosen for this event because it is a coastal area with great relevance for biodiversity and a concentration of projects related to the Conference’s themes. The event will provide room for the presentation and discussion of the results of current scientific work in the field of coastal and marine conservation, the exchange of experiences on the management of Marine Conservation Areas (MCA) and Ecosystem-Based Management (EbA) in Mozambique’s coastal and marine zones.
