RFAs: Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund Grant Programme in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago of singular beauty and remarkable biodiversity, faces significant challenges in the conservation of its endemic species and fragile ecosystems. The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZSCF) has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering crucial grants for conservation projects around the world, including Cape Verde. This article explores the importance of the MBZSCF grant programme for biodiversity conservation in Cape Verde, detailing the application process, the types of projects funded and the impact it has had on the ground.

The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund: An Overview

The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZSCF) is a global philanthropic foundation that supports species conservation projects around the world. Founded in 2008, the fund's main objective is to protect endangered species and their habitats by providing direct funding to individuals and organisations working on the front line of conservation.

Mission and Objectives

• Preventing the extinction of endangered species.
• Support conservation projects based on scientific evidence.
• Training local conservationists and community organisations.
• Raising awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation.

The Importance of the MBZSCF for Conservation in Cape Verde

Cape Verde, with its rich biodiversity and high degree of endemism, is a hot spot for conservation. However, the island faces threats such as habitat loss, invasive species, climate change and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. MBZSCF funding is vital to support projects that address these challenges and protect Cape Verde's unique flora and fauna.

Examples of Beneficiary Species

• Common sea turtle (Caretta caretta): Projects to monitor and protect nests on nesting beaches.
• Green-tailed gecko (Tarentola caboverdiana): Studies on their distribution and ecology to inform conservation strategies.
• Green-tailed Swallow (Calonectris edwardsii): Monitoring nesting colonies and mitigating threats such as predation by invasive species.
• Green-tailed Dragoon (Dracaena draco caboverdeana): Reforestation projects and control of invasive species to protect their habitat.

Types of Projects Financed by the MBZSCF in Cape Verde

The MBZSCF finances a wide range of conservation projects, including:

• Scientific research: Studies on the ecology, distribution and threats to endangered species.
• Conservation in situ: Protection of critical habitats and implementation of management measures.
• Conservation ex situ: Captive breeding and reintroduction programmes for endangered species.
• Education and sensitisation: Campaigns to raise public awareness of the importance of biodiversity conservation.
• Training: Training local conservationists and supporting community organisations.

MBZSCF Application Process

The MBZSCF application process is competitive and requires a well-designed proposal that demonstrates the importance of the project, its feasibility and its potential impact on the conservation of threatened species. Applicants must follow the guidelines provided on the MBZSCF website and provide detailed information about the project, including:

• Project objectives and goals.
• Methodology and work plan.
• Detailed budget.
• Project schedule.
• Experience and qualifications of the project team.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Demonstrate a strong knowledge of the target species or habitat.
• Present a clear and realistic work plan.
• Show the project's potential impact on conservation.
• Include a detailed and justified budget.
• Obtain letters of support from relevant partners.

Case studies: MBZSCF-funded projects in Cape Verde

Several projects in Cape Verde have been successfully financed by the MBZSCF, demonstrating the fund's positive impact on biodiversity conservation. For example:

Sea Turtle Conservation Project: This project, implemented by a local organisation, received funding from the MBZSCF to monitor and protect loggerhead sea turtle nests on nesting beaches. The project involved tagging turtles, removing predators and sensitising local communities about the importance of turtle conservation.

Study on the Ecology of the Green-tailed Gecko: This research project, led by a team of scientists, received funding from the MBZSCF to study the distribution and ecology of the green-tailed gecko. The results of the study were used to inform conservation strategies and protect the gecko's habitat.

Future Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the MBZSCF's success in supporting conservation projects in Cape Verde, there are still significant challenges to overcome. 

Apply now to the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund Grant Programme! Find out more and apply here.

Application deadline: 30 June 2025.