*Maputo, Mozambique – [Date]* – Justiça Ambiental (JA!), a mozambican association that works to protect and defend the environment and the communities that depend on it in Mozambique, has launched a public petition in collaboration with local residents, urging the governments of Mozambique, Botswana, and Zimbabwe to halt the proposed deepwater port development in Techobanine. The development threatens the rich biodiversity of Maputo National Park and the well-being of local communities.
The Techobanine port project, a collaboration between the three countries, proposes the construction of a mineral export port on Mozambique’s southern coast. However, environmental experts, local residentes and civil society organizations, including JA!, warn of severe ecological destruction, including the degradation of marine ecosystems, the disruption of critical wildlife habitats, and the displacement of coastal communities.
“Techobanine is home to unique and endangered species, including humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Its pristine coral reefs and interconnected freshwater lakes are irreplaceable, and the proposed port development would have catastrophic effects on these ecosystems,” said *Anabela Lemos*, Director of Justiça Ambiental.
*Key concerns of the Techobanine port project include:*
– *Destruction of Biodiversity:* The proposed site lies within Maputo National Park, a critical habitat for marine and terrestrial wildlife.
– *Loss of Livelihoods:* Tourism, which supports 90% of local employment, would be severely impacted, jeopardizing thousands of jobs in coastal communities.
– *Marine Pollution and Habitat Disruption:* The dredging process and the influx of ships and trucks transporting coal and minerals will introduce pollution, noise, and habitat loss, endangering marine life and affecting coastal ecosystems.
The petition, now open for signatures, calls on the Mozambique government to:
– Suspend plans for the Techobanine port development.
– Consider alternative locations that do not threaten protected areas such as Maputo National Park.
In addition to local communities, JA! is seeking international support for the petition, inviting global environmental organizations and individuals to join the cause. The petition has already gained traction on social media platforms and among environmental advocates globally.
“We urge the Mozambique Parliament and the international community to consider the long-term environmental damage this project could cause. There are sustainable alternatives that prioritize both economic growth and environmental protection,” Lemos added.
How to Support the Petition:
Sign the petition (English): https://bit.ly/46oiAJ4
Sign the petition (Portuguese): https://bit.ly/3Ss2Wq5
For further information, please contact:
*Justiça Ambiental (JA!)*
Email: jamoz2010@gmail.com
Website: https://justica-ambiental.org
Justiça Ambiental (JA!) is a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental justice in Mozambique. Its mission is to promote sustainable development, protect Mozambique’s natural ecosystems, and advocate for the rights of local communities affected by environmental degradation. Through advocacy, education, and activism, JA! aims to empower communities and influence policies that support environmental conservation and climate justice.