In the second half of October 2024, the Pomene National Reserve (PNR) marked a significant milestone in its efforts toward conservation and local development. During an official ceremony, the construction of a warehouse and the rehabilitation of the reserve administrator’s residence were launched. The event, presided over by the Director of the District Services for Planning and Infrastructure (SDPI) of Massinga, Maçada Augusto, representing the District Government, marked the beginning of an essential project for environmental sustainability. The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND), the National Administration of Conservation Areas (ANAC), SDPI, PNR, and the construction company CCL Construções, totalling 11 participants.

The infrastructure project, valued at approximately 7.8 million meticais, is financed by the Biodiversity Conservation Programme, supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and coordinated by BIOFUND in close collaboration with ANAC. Planned to last four months, the project aims to improve the reserve’s infrastructure, strengthen its management, and contribute to the conservation of local biodiversity.

The company CCL Construções committed to hiring local workers whenever possible, ensuring that the communities living in the area are actively involved in and benefit from the interventions within the reserve.

During the ceremony, strict adherence to environmental and social safeguards was emphasised, given the sensitivity of the protected area. CCL Construções will implement training sessions for its staff on gender equality, gender-based violence, harassment, and sexual exploitation, in close collaboration with ANAC and BIOFUND. Additionally, strong measures for occupational safety and hygiene were highlighted as essential, particularly in an area with no nearby health facilities.

The event concluded with a traditional ceremony, where four local communities performed rituals to bless and protect the project, showing deep respect for regional traditions and culture. This symbolic act highlights the harmony between modernisation and respect for cultural heritage, promoting sustainable development and the well-being of the Pomene communities.

This project represents a bold and inspiring step for conservation, demonstrating that progress and environmental protection can go hand in hand.