Mozambique & Blue Forest Launch Africa’s Largest Mangrove Restoration Project

Mozambique has more than 300,000 hectares of mangroves along its coast, which is one of the largest tracts of mangrove forest in Africa.

MAPUTO, Mozambique, February 8, 2022/APO Group/ —

Up to 100 million mangroves will be planted; Total project area of ​​185,000 hectares; 200,000 tons of CO2 to be offset annually.

Africa’s largest mangrove reforestation project has been launched by the Mozambique Ministry of the Sea, Inland Waters and Fisheries (MIMAIP) in partnership with Blue Forest, a UAE-based mangrove reforestation specialist.

The project will be implemented in the biodiversity-sensitive provinces of Sofala and Zambezia, spread over 185,000 hectares of mangrove forests. Between 50 and 100 million trees are expected to be planted as part of this long-term partnership. This project will offset the emission of approximately 200,000 tons of CO2 per year, which is equivalent to taking 50,000 cars off the road.

The partners will use high-resolution satellite imagery, LiDAR technology and remote sensing data to identify key “hot spots” where the need for restoration is greatest. Artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms will then be used to decipher satellite data and field measurements to tailor reforestation activities accurately, efficiently and transparently.

The reforestation works will be carried out in collaboration with various stakeholders addressing the issue of mangrove forest restoration in Mozambique. Public institutions such as the National Forest Directorate (DINAF) and the National Fund for Sustainable Development (FNDS), as well as universities and NGOs, will participate in this emblematic campaign.

The project will be financed through carbon credits that will be generated through reforestation and conservation activities during the 30-year period of this association. The income will be shared between local and national actors according to the guidelines established by the FNDS.

Xavier Munjovo, Permanent Secretary of MIMAIP, commented: “Mozambique has more than 300,000 hectares of mangroves along its coast, which is one of the largest expanses of mangrove forest in Africa. We are delighted to partner with Blue Forest and introduce innovative technology to the way we map and restore our vital mangrove forests for generations to come.”

Vahid Fotuhi, Founder and CEO of Blue Forest, added: “Mozambique is a highly strategic country when it comes to mangrove forests. We are delighted to partner with MIMAIP and to work in coordination with all national and provincial public and private institutions as well as the local communities of Sofala and Zambezia on this landmark project. Tens of thousands of people and endless marine life will benefit from this project.”