The Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND) – BIOFUND, in partnership with the Ministry of Land and Environment (MTA) and Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM), held on July 23 in Maputo, at the headquarters of the Commercial and Investment Bank (BCI), a lecture on Sacred Forests and a discussion on the New Forest Law (Law No. 17/2023, of December 29).

The event, attended by 36 participants including BIOFUND members and staff, partners, and UEM students, aimed to raise awareness about the environmental and socio-cultural importance of sacred forests and to promote in-depth reflection on the mechanisms for protecting and conserving these vital resources within the ongoing review of the new forest law’s regulations.

On the occasion, Dr. Leovigildo José, representative of the Forest Law Regulation Review Commission of the National Directorate of Forests (DINAF), provided context on the revision process of the draft forest law regulations, highlighting the importance of including all social strata in the process through comprehensive regional public consultations carried out in the country’s three zones (south, center, and north).

Drawing on scientific knowledge and long-standing experience, Dr. Pascoal Gota and Dr. Alice Massingue, environmental scientists and anthropologists from Uppsala University in Sweden and Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambique, respectively, both experienced in studies on sacred forests in Mozambique, shared data and trends on the appreciation of sacred forests and trees, as well as the mechanisms used by communities to maintain the conservation of this cultural heritage over the years.

The lecture led to discussions on key issues and recommendations that should be considered in the revision of the forest law regulations, to enhance the value and conservation of forests with historical and cultural significance, taking into account the role of local communities and governmental entities.

By promoting events like this, BIOFUND reaffirms its commitment to protecting Mozambique’s natural and cultural heritage, always seeking to integrate science and value local communities in its conservation initiatives.