Contribution of the valorization of the indigenous knowledge in the process of sustainable development of the communities in the area of Ecotourism
The project aimed to enhance income opportunities for vulnerable communities in the coastal region of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, one of the country’s poorest areas, particularly in rural zones. The region, rich in biodiversity and located within the Swahili-Maputland hotspot, is home to unique estuarine ecosystems, mangroves, and marine grasses. The project focused on supporting the tourism development strategy outlined in Mozambique’s 2016-2025 National Tourism Strategic Plans, emphasizing public-private partnerships and stakeholder involvement at the district level.
The targeted communities, mainly Kimwane people, rely on subsistence artisanal fisheries. By leveraging the area’s environmental assets, the project aimed to improve livelihoods and contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), particularly in terms of sustainable development and poverty reduction. The region’s climate features distinct wet and dry seasons, influencing local livelihoods and economic activities.