The BIOFUND exhibition on marine and coastal biodiversity, showcased at the 2022 Beach Soccer Championship arena since 21 October and running in Vilanculos until 28 October 2022, highlights the importance of marine species and their habitats and draws attention to the need for people to do more to protect Mozambique’s biological diversity.

The nearly 900 visitors who have passed through so far, particularly young people, have shown interest in doing more for biodiversity.

“Before seeing this marine exhibition, I didn’t fully understand the importance of the oceans and marine life. Today, I realise that it is necessary to conserve mangroves to ensure the survival of marine species that are important for our livelihood and for the sustainability of tourism. This is important information, and I will share it with others who still don’t know what they should do to help protect biodiversity!” said Custódio Inácio, a 17-year-old resident of Vilanculos.

This exhibition, which is part of BIOFUND’s 10th-anniversary celebration campaign, also received visits from several high-profile figures, including the President of the Republic Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, Governor of Inhambane Daniel Chapo, Administrator of Vilanculos Edmundo Galiza Matos Jr., Secretary of State for Sports Carlos Gilberto Mendes, President of the Mozambican Football Federation Feizal Sidat, among other dignitaries.

In addition to the exhibition, BIOFUND, in coordination with the Ministry of Land and Environment (MTA), the National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC), and the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park (PNAB), has already carried out talks on the protection of marine biodiversity, beach clean-ups, and mangrove planting along the coastal area of Vilanculos.