IFM Strengthens Community Engagement and Forest Stewardship in Gondola

Investimento Florestal de Moçambique (IFM) recently held a constructive meeting with community leaders from the Vila de Gondola region as part of its ongoing commitment to responsible forestry management, community engagement, and operational safety. 

The meeting brought together representatives from IFM, local community leadership, and members of the Mozambican Police (PRM) to discuss the increasing pressure being experienced within forestry plantation areas, including unauthorized access, illegal charcoal production, and the theft of timber products. 

Rather than approaching the situation through confrontation, IFM emphasized the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and community partnership in finding practical and sustainable solutions. The company reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside local leaders to improve awareness, strengthen communication, and protect both community members and forestry operations. 

During the discussions, IFM highlighted the growing safety concerns associated with uncontrolled access to active forestry areas. These concerns include risks linked to heavy machinery, harvesting operations, falling trees, fires, and the presence of children within operational zones. 

Community leaders acknowledged the challenges being faced and recognized the economic pressures contributing to some of the activities occurring within the plantation areas. The meeting therefore focused not only on operational concerns, but also on creating practical solutions that support both community needs and sustainable forest management. 

As part of the agreed way forward, IFM and community leaders committed to a series of follow-up meetings within surrounding neighbourhoods to improve public awareness and strengthen communication with residents. 

In addition, IFM introduced a structured community access arrangement that will allow local residents to collect residual firewood from designated areas on specific days and within controlled time periods. The initiative aims to provide safe and organized access to usable forestry residue while reducing risks to community members and minimizing interference with forestry operations. 

The company also confirmed that direct communication channels will be established between IFM and community leaders to improve coordination and assist with managing special community requests when necessary. 

The meeting formed part of IFM’s broader commitment to responsible forestry stewardship, community collaboration, and sustainable long-term operations in Mozambique. Both IFM and community representatives expressed their shared intention to continue working together to promote safety, environmental responsibility, and constructive engagement across the region.