The Assisting Communities in Maputo National Park (MNAP) project, implemented by the Peace Parks Foundation, aimed to
support local communities bordering the park through cash-for-work initiatives. The project focused on creating jobs, improving park infrastructure, and reducing human-wildlife conflict (HWC). By maintaining 150 km of fenceline and clearing 80 km of existing roads along with 16 km of new roads, the project not only provided employment but also improved access to remote areas of the park, enhancing tourism opportunities and park management. One of the critical achievements of the project was the engagement of 40 community members who were employed for 12 months to work on road and fence maintenance. This initiative provided
much-needed income to local households and equipped workers with skills such as plumbing and waste management. The maintenance of the fence-line helped reduce the occurrences of elephants leaving the park, which had previously led to crop damage and risks to human life. While HWC remains a challenge, the project introduced a new “porcupine” fence concept to test its effectiveness in preventing elephant escapes.

Tourism in Maputo National Park has benefitted from the project’s road-clearing efforts, as visitors can now access remote areas more easily, improving the overall experience. The big game drive vehicles have better access to wildlife-viewing areas, increasing the park’s appeal to tourists. Improved tourism infrastructure also brings economic benefits to surrounding communities, as 20% of park revenue is allocated to them. Additionally, safer roads reduce accidents caused by overgrown vegetation, contributing to both visitor safety and wildlife conservation.

The project also addressed sustainability by continuing the employment of workers beyond the initial project period. Funding
from MozBio has supported 30 of these workers until December 2023, with Peace Parks Foundation seeking additional resources to
maintain these eco-jobs. These efforts contribute to long-term park management and community upliftment, providing a sustainable approach to conservation and economic development.

In conclusion, the Assisting Communities in Maputo National Park project successfully balanced conservation objectives with community livelihoods. It reduced human-wildlife conflict, supported local economies, and strengthened the park’s infrastructure, laying a foundation for continued environmental and social benefits in the region. Despite some challenges, such as managing HWC, the project has achieved its goals and set the stage for future conservation efforts.

Project Outputs:

• Forty (40) workers from the local community were employed for 12 months.
• 80 km of existing roads and 16km of new roads were cleared of trees and natural debris.
• 150 km of fence-line maintenance achieved