Fundação Maio Biodiversidade
Fundação Maio Biodiversidade (FMB) was founded in 2010 and is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. FMB is an NGO that protects the unique fauna and flora of Maio and creates opportunities and long-term benefits for its people though sustainable and eco-friendly economic developments. In 2016, the Guardians of the Sea initiative was established which is a locally led programme that improves protection for Maio’s marine environment. The Guardians aim to deter illegal fishing and capture of endangered species and their patrols discourage fishing during periods when fisheries are closed to enable recovery and growth of species. Alongside this they step in to rescue trapped or injured animals. Since it began, they have made over 2,000 trips, voluntarily totalling 10,000 hours of patrol effort. It is so successful that it is being replicated by other local NGOs and the Cape Verdean government on other islands.
FMB started its Turtle Protection Programme in 2011 and in 2012, created a new approach with patrolling teams that mixed local rangers with young biologists from other islands and international volunteers. This approach was so successful that turtle poaching decreased by 85% in one year. The International Advisory Committee for Biosphere Reserves has recommended for approval Maio’s candidacy for Man and Biosphere Reserve which crowns the FMB’s efforts who have collected crucial ecological data and led the application together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
The Joint Enforcement Group is a tool created in 2015 that aims at pooling resources amongst 7 local institutions and authorities to battle illegal activities in Maio. The FMB created the Homestay Programme which empowers women to have their own ‘Bed & Breakfast’ type business and encourages sustainable tourism. FMB helps these women to adapt their houses to receive guests and this scheme is being replicated on other islands as it has contributed to the re-branding of Maio as an ecotourism destination.
They train young fishers in marine conservation and field work and currently pay the studies of 2 young people from Maio, which creating unique opportunities for young people in a country with extremely high unemployment.