© Akashinga
In the early stages of developing the Save Seascape, a community-led protected area in Mozambique’s Sofala. Akashinga works closely with coastal communities to lay the groundwork for long-term marine conservation. This biodiversity hotspot is critical for sea turtles, dugong, sharks, and rays, and its diverse ecosystems—including mangroves, reefs, and estuaries—are essential to both marine life and local livelihoods.
Former and current fishers are key to Akashinga’s conservation efforts, using tools like the EarthRanger Mobile app to collect vital data. These community members monitor nesting turtle activity, which includes tracks, nests, hatchings, mortalities, bycatch, strandings, and illegal fishing activities. This real-time data informs conservation strategies, strengthening community involvement in protecting natural resources.
To enhance monitoring, Akashinga also utilizes Skylight, an AI-powered tool that detects illegal fishing and other illicit maritime activities. This technology, combined with community-driven data, allows for better protection of the Save seascape. As the project progresses, Akashinga’s innovative use of technology and strong community collaboration are helping create a model for sustainable, community-led marine conservation. The Save Seascape initiative represents a promising step towards securing Mozambique’s rich marine biodiversity for future generations.