Dugong conservation in Bazaruto Archipelago National Park: Phase II

Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, Mozambique – As part of the second phase of a WWF dugong campaign in two districts of Mozambique — Vilankulo and Inhassoro — WWF Mozambique continues to provide training material about protecting this endangered marine mammal to local fishermen associations, fisheries authorities and the public at large.

The training material has been developed to mitigate declining dugong populations as a result of bycatch — the accidental capture of fish and other marine animals in fishing gear — as well as their intentional capture for meat.

“Following the success of the first phase of our education campaign that started in July, the local population, especially fishermen, is becoming more aware of the importance of the species and the prohibition of catching and consuming it,” said Mário Fumo, WWF Mozambique Environmental Education Coordinator.

“We hope to continue working with fishermen on dugong conservation in the national park to ensure that survival of the species.”

According to local wildlife authorities, the area surrounding the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is home to about 230 dugongs, one of the more significant dugong populations left along the coast of East Africa.

The WWF dugong campaign runs until the end of 2007. From now until then, WWF will focus its efforts on fishermen to avoid catching dugongs in their nets while fishing for other species.

Certificates for those participating in WWF training sessions will also be awarded during this time. Other activities to promote the campaign will include distributing brochures, posters, as well as hosting public debates and community radio programmes.

For further information:
Lécio Munguambe, Communication Officer
WWF-Mozambique
E-mail: lmunguambe@wwf.org.mz