Protect the Quirimbas Archipelago: Sponsor the 2024 World Heritage Volunteers Week

Introduction to the Quirimbas Archipelago

The Quirimbas Archipelago, a breathtaking region in Mozambique, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vibrant cultural heritage. Comprising a series of stunning islands, the archipelago boasts unique ecosystems that are home to diverse marine life and endemic species, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts. Currently listed on the UNESCO Tentative List, the nomination of the Quirimbas is not only a recognition of its exceptional natural beauty and cultural significance but also presents a unique opportunity to empower local communities. By enhancing its visibility, the nomination could facilitate sustainable development initiatives that promote economic growth, enhance local livelihoods, and support local cultural expressions. Additionally, it would play a vital role in safeguarding the region’s relevant natural and cultural heritage for future generations, ensuring that these treasures are preserved amid the challenges posed by climate change and human activity.

The Project and Its Implementation

To protect and promote this unique environment, we are organizing the 2024 World Heritage Volunteers Week in the Quirimbas Archipelago, which shall take place in November 2024. This event will bring together volunteers, local communities, and conservationists to engage in activities that highlight the importance of preserving our natural and cultural treasures. 

The project is implemented by ASMOG, an organization based in Vila do Ibo that empowers young volunteers to safeguard local natural and cultural heritage. They focus on awareness raising and capacity building, monitoring, recycling, and implementing emergency conservation initiatives. 

This effort is supported by Archi.Media Trust, which has previously collaborated with ASMOG on the project "Rescuing Vila do Ibo Architectural Heritage from the Impact of Jihadist Terrorism in Northern Mozambique." Archi.Media will contribute to this initiative not only helping ASMOG to raise funds for it, but also by providing scientific and technical assistance during its implementation. 

Funding Needs

Funds raised through this campaign are essential to overcoming the significant challenges of accessing Vila do Ibo, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Cabo Delgado. The isolation of the island further compounds these issues, resulting in a lack of resources, jobs, and essential goods. This inaccessibility not only affects the daily lives of the local community but also hinders conservation efforts, as it limits the capacity to implement vital projects and initiatives. 

To address these challenges, the use of funds will prioritize local suppliers and local goods and services, supporting the community economically while ensuring that the resources needed for conservation and volunteer activities are sourced responsibly. Your contributions will play a crucial role in ensuring that volunteers can actively participate in this critical work, helping to restore and protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Heritage and Peacebuilding 

The presence of WH Mozambican and international volunteers will have a peace-building effect in the region, contributing not only to the safeguarding of the heritage but also to the advancement of the World Heritage nomination process of the Quirimbas Archipelago. 

During this week, volunteers will participate in beach clean-ups, restoration projects, and educational workshops that empower the local community to become stewards of their heritage. Our goal is to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility toward the environment, ensuring that the beauty of the Quirimbas Archipelago is preserved for generations to come.

CALL TO ACTION

We invite you to join us in this vital mission by sponsoring the 2024 World Heritage Volunteers Week. Your support will help provide the necessary resources for the volunteers and local communities to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can safeguard this precious part of our world.