LEAP close of project monitoring visit started in Cabo Delgado

As the Locally Empowered Area Protection (LEAP) project nears completion, a team of four IUCN staff members is currently in Cabo Delgado province in Mozambique to assess the project's impact. This monitoring visit follows a series of meetings with key project partners, including the Provincial Directorate of Territorial Development and Environment, the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Fisheries, and implementing organizations such as the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and Associação do Meio Ambiente (AMA).

The team has embarked on field visits to the districts of Metuge and Mecufi, where the project has been actively implemented. LEAP, funded by the German Federal Government's International Climate Initiative (IKI), aims to enhance coastal and marine socio-ecological resilience and biodiversity conservation in the Western Indian Ocean. In Mozambique, its activities have included the development of Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs), mangrove restoration, alternative livelihoods through Internal Displaced People support and Blue Economy Incubator initiatives, and the establishment of a Knowledge Hub.

The Knowledge Hub, developed as part of the project, consists of a library, a reading room, a computer, and a lecture room and provides internet access and learning tools focused on the natural environment. This facility is designed to empower local communities with knowledge and resources to promote environmental conservation and sustainable livelihoods.

Field visit to Metuge District

On February 19th, the IUCN team, accompanied by provincial government representatives and AKF staff, visited Namau in Metuge district. They observed a successful Blue Economy Incubator ecotourism initiative led by Sr. Marco Gonzaga, which employs 13 staff members and operates within the Quirimbas National Park. This initiative showcases the potential for sustainable economic opportunities in the region.

In Namau, the team also visited a mangrove restoration site where over 1.77 hectares of mangroves have been planted by local community members. After one year, these new mangrove plants are establishing well, with promising long-term survival rates. Mangrove restoration plays a crucial role in coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.

The role of Community Fisheries Councils (CCPs)

A key component of LEAP’s success has been the engagement of Community Fisheries Councils (Conselho Comunitário de Pescas, or CCPs). These councils have played a significant role in developing LMMAs, supporting government efforts in fisheries management, and leading mangrove restoration initiatives. During the monitoring visit, CCP leaders met with the team to discuss the project's impact using a pilot IBEX tool. Initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the social, economic, and environmental benefits derived from the project.

Continuing the monitoring effort

Over the coming weeks, the IUCN team will visit all seven communities involved in the LEAP project to further evaluate its outcomes and gather insights from local stakeholders. This comprehensive assessment will help inform future conservation and development efforts in the region.