The context of REDD+ in Mozambique: Drivers, agents, and institutions

Abstract

This study offers an overview of the REDD+ context in Mozambique through a synthesis of the current knowledge of the causes of forest carbon changes, a review of the legal and institutional context, and a description of the current political process of REDD+. The objective is to gather data and relevant information, and to offer a preliminary analysis of the fundamental aspects that can help to promote efficient, effective and equitable REDD+ policies. This study presents the following findings: (1) One serious problem is that little is known about land-cover changes at the national level, and even less is known at more disaggregated levels and the influence of various production sectors. (2) Despite few references quantifying the specific causes of deforestation and forest degradation, various studies indicate that agriculture and wood fuels constitute the two major causes. (3) Commercial timber exploitation is done selectively and known to be unsustainable. (4) The underlying causes of deforestation and forest degradation include technological, demographic, economic, and institutional factors. (5) The decentralization process in Mozambique is a fact. (6) Mozambique already has experiences with benefit sharing mechanisms. (7) The national development priorities are led by the development of the agriculture sector, biofuel production, reforestation, and mining. (8) The main actors of the REDD+ process in Mozambique include members of the government, academia, civil society, and the private sector. (9) In general, the process of developing the REDD+ National Strategy has been inclusive. (10) Effective outcomes depend on the degree to which REDD+ policies are oriented towards the actual sources of forest carbon change, and to the degree to which these policies respond to possible interactions between the causes of deforestation and forest degradation. (11) Cost-effective outcomes depend on whether the principal causes of forest carbon changes are identified and addressed through more viable REDD+ policy options, on the government capacity to respond to REDD+ demands, and on the strength of the institutional framework. (12) The degree of equitable outcomes with cobenefits will depend largely on whether the processes are inclusive and under national ownership, whether those who bear the costs of REDD+ are being compensated; and on the definition of rights over carbon and environmental services. (13) Fair results also mean that those who bear the real costs …