A workshop in Mozambique’s Mapai District of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area marked an important step in putting a national plan into action: to connect Limpopo, Banhine and Zinave national parks through specifically designated ecological corridors.
Ecological corridors are natural routes that help animals move safely between protected areas. They play a vital role in connecting these areas across international borders. These corridors not only support a variety of life by connecting habitats and enabling wildlife movement, they involve local communities in caring for the land. “Supporting communities in finding ways to safely live alongside well-travelled wildlife corridors is at the very crux of the matter. We need to focus on prevention and mitigation through effective planning.” says Helena Atkinson, Peace Parks Foundation’s Community Development Programme Manager. Mapai Workshop Drives Corridor Vision Forward
Community buy-in
Connecting land, life and livelihoods
These corridors will only succeed if the people living in these areas are actively involved and see direct benefits. That’s why this initiative — led by Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC), with support from Peace Parks Foundation — is so important. The workshop, which brought together community leaders, highlights a collaborative, cross-border effort to strengthen both nature and the wellbeing of local communities. The aim is to:
- Build communities that can withstand the impacts of a changing climate
- Create ways for people to earn a living and support their families
Real life experiences
Gaining insight into the reality of what it’s like living with wild animals roaming past one’s house and then discussing the hopes and dreams that these people that live in extremely remote areas with very few job opportunities is central to plotting a way forward.
“We now have a much better understanding of how to support the people living in this landscape in making these ecological corridors a reality,” says Peace Parks Regional Manager, Dr Bartolomeu Soto.
ANAC will lead the implementation of the defined ecological corridors, with community support as a key component, and broad participation coordinated through a steering committee.
Socio-ecological connectivity
This concept, being pioneered by Mozambique in southern Africa, recognises that people and nature form one interconnected system. The recent workshop marks a meaningful step in putting this idea into practice on the ground.
When communities see wildlife as an asset that contributes to their wellbeing, they’re more likely to protect it and tolerate the animals that move through their landscapes. In Mozambique, 20% of all national park revenue is shared with neighbouring communities. These funds often support boreholes, cattle purchases, or the development of community farms.
“The ongoing work on these corridors is a welcome and promising development – one that communities know will bring lasting benefits.” says Narciso Eduardo Nhamuhuco, District Administrator for Mapai.
A steering committee, made up of representatives from ANAC, Provincial Environment Directorates, the National Disaster Management Institute, District Focal Points, Peace Parks Foundation, and other stakeholders, will guide policy, coordinate engagement, and provide technical advice to inform government decisions.
