Chimanimani’s Legacy Immortalized in Literary Works

Mozambique’s Chimanimani National Park, with its rich biodiversity, has become the focus of two remarkable books. This initiative was led by the Biodiversity Conservation Foundation (BIOFUND) and the Biodiversity Conservation and Community Development (CBDC) Project, with support from the Socio-Cultural Research Institute (ARPAC).

Last month, the books resulting from the 2022 inventory of the park’s cultural and historical heritage funded by AFD/FFEM were officially launched at Pungue University in Chimoio. The event was attended by 93 participants, including Stefan Dick Mphiri, Secretary of State of Manica Province; Paulina Chiziane, renowned writer and author of the books’ foreword; and Lionel Macicame, Administrator of Chimanimani National Park.

Paulina Chiziane praised the bold initiative of using literature to convey African ancestry and encouraged readers to embrace the works. The books are not only highly educational but also celebrate Mozambique’s rich biodiversity.

Chimanimani National Park, located in the district of Sussundenga in Manica Province, covers an area of 683 km² with a buffer zone of 1,685 km². Its impressive landscape includes multiple mountains, river sources, sacred forests, rock paintings, and biodiversity comprising over 1,000 species of animals and plants.

By highlighting the park’s cultural and natural wealth, these books aim to raise awareness about the importance of nature preservation. BIOFUND hopes this work will represent an invaluable contribution to preserving and celebrating the unique culture and biodiversity of this remarkable location.