For the first time since its creation over 50 years ago, Banhine National Park in Mozambique is directly sharing revenue benefits with the surrounding communities. Local leaders recently received a cheque for 650,000 Meticais (about $10,000). In Mozambique, communities are entitled to 20% of a national park’s revenue. This payment marks a turning point in the relationship between the park and its people.
Investing in what matters most
At the handover ceremony, community leader Arlindo Fenias Mondlane shared their immediate priorities:
- Drilling a borehole to secure access to clean drinking water during times of drought
- If that proves too costly, buying cattle will be next as they are a valuable asset for local families
“We are deeply grateful. This is something we’ve long hoped for,” said Mondlane.
Building a path to participation
To receive the funds, communities had to formalise their structures:
- 17 community committees were officially established and registered
- Identity documents were issued
- Bank accounts were opened for transparent fund management
Pejul Calenga, Director-General of the National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC), praised the effort:
“The amount paid to the communities recognises their vital role in conserving biodiversity. This partnership with Peace Parks Foundation has made it possible to deliver benefits that show communities they are essential stewards of the park, and they are being recognised as such,” he said.
A partnership for people and nature
In support of the Mozambique Government, Peace Parks Foundation collaborated with ANAC to get this initiative off the ground.
Antony Alexander, Peace Parks’ Programme Manager for the Great Limpopo and Lubombo Transfrontier Conservation Areas, explained that as part of a wider Banhine community development programme, donor funding is currently subsidising the 20% revenue share to communities until the park’s own income can sustain these payments. The aim, however, is long-term sustainability where conservation brings direct, visible value to communities.
“This approach empowers communities to decide and self-manage how they use their revenue share,” said Alexander.
Beyond Banhine: a growing impact
Banhine isn’t alone in this journey. This model is gaining momentum. In Zinave National Park, communities recently received a second $10,000 revenue share, alongside broader development support including:
- Six new schoolteacher houses
- 40 beehives and related equipment to support local livelihoods and food security
Infrastructure to match the vision
To support the growing momentum, Banhine has seen major infrastructure upgrades:
- Five new management houses
- A solar power system
- Two boreholes, including one benefiting the village of Tchai Tchai
Work has also commenced on the development of two community livestock water systems and the construction of new ranger base housing for up to 44 rangers, currently being developed in two phases.
A more inclusive future
The Governor of Gaza Province, Margarida Sebastião Mapandzene Chongo, summed up the significance:
“The communities will feel more integrated and part of the development process, which will contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable coexistence.”
With these milestones, Banhine National Park is not only protecting nature but also helping communities thrive.
