The Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique is a crucial habitat for wildlife, including the endangered pangolin. Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked mammal, hunted for their meat, skin, and scales. The park faced destruction during Mozambique’s civil war, with rebels killing animals for food and trade. After the war ended in 1992, efforts to restore the park were limited by lack of funding. American philanthropist Greg Carr partnered with the Mozambican government to restore the park, committing millions to the project.
Over the past 20 years, the Gorongosa Restoration Project has successfully rewilded the park, reintroduced wildlife species, and improved infrastructure. The park now boasts a significant increase in the number of animals compared to the post-war period. The project focuses not only on protecting flora and fauna but also on creating employment opportunities and supporting local communities in the park’s buffer zone. Initiatives like the shade-grown coffee project have provided sustainable income sources for villagers.
Community involvement is a key aspect of the restoration project, with a focus on education, healthcare, and conservation awareness. The park also employs armed rangers to protect wildlife from poaching and trafficking. Despite the success of conservation efforts, human-wildlife conflict remains a challenge, with elephants crossing into villages bordering the park. Strategies like beehive fences and chilli-soaked ropes are employed to deter elephants from raiding crops.
Tourism in the park is rebounding, with various accommodation options available for visitors. The project has created employment opportunities for over 1,800 people, predominantly Mozambicans, making it the largest employer in Sofala province. Greg Carr’s commitment to the project ensures its sustainability until at least 2040, with ongoing support from partners and donors. The park’s success provides hope for the future of wildlife conservation in Mozambique and the well-being of local communities living near the park.