Monte Mabu, one of Mozambique’s most most important Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs), has been officially declared a Community Conservation Area by the Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Fisheries, Mito Albino.  This landmark achievement formally recognizes the role of 11 local communities that have safeguarded the mountain’s forests and biodiversity for generations, while strengthening the long-term conservation of one of the country’s most unique natural landscapes

This step marks the conclusion of a long process of community organization, demarcation of the area (approximately 9,300 ha), creation of ConservaMabu, and strengthening of participatory natural resource management. Through ConservaMabu and the community committees representing the 11 communities and with the involvement of government institutions, WWF, and civil society partners the communities are now recognized as key actors in decision-making and the long-term protection of Monte Mabu’s biodiversity.

Recognized internationally as a Key Biodiversity Area, Monte Mabu is renowned for its exceptionally rich biodiversity and the presence of several globally threatened and endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The mountain’s extensive mid-altitude rainforest, one of the largest remaining blocks of this habitat in southern Africa, provides refuge for unique plants, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and butterflies, many of which are restricted to the Mabu landscape.

The new Community Conservation Area creates an important framework for protecting these outstanding biodiversity values while promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities through conservation agriculture, beekeeping, and community-based ecotourism. It also demonstrates how community-led conservation can successfully contribute to both biodiversity protection and sustainable local development.

The official declaration of the Monte Mabu Community Conservation Area represents a significant milestone for the conservation of this globally important KBA and highlights the vital role of local communities in safeguarding Mozambique’s natural heritage for future generations.