Parque Nacional da Gorongosa Moçambique

Most people in the Gorongosa region are small-scale farmers who use traditional farming methods. They grow crops and raise livestock to feed their families and occasionally have surplus to sell at the market. In addition to farming, they also harvest honey and produce charcoal for sale.

Their farming techniques are sometimes not very productive and occasionally harm the environment. We are teaching farmers conservation agriculture techniques that produce higher yields and healthier crops and have the lowest possible impact on the environment

Regional Development

The development of Gorongosa National Park has created jobs which has helped some local families. To foster broader economic development we plan to introduce a variety of tourism-based businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and empower people to operate their own businesses. As tourism grows there will be more need for service industries and community-run businesses--thus many people in the region will find a greater variety of ways to earn a sustainable living.

Revenue Sharing

Gorongosa National Park shares 20 percent of its revenue with neighboring communities that support the Park's conservation objectives. Each participating community elects a committee of men and women who review project proposals submitted by community members. The committee funds projects that most benefit the community and have the fewest environmental impacts, e.g., a new school or a new well.