A coutada is a state wildlife management area in Mozambique in which safari hunting is permitted.
During the 25-year civil war which ended in 1992, safari hunting was not possible because of security concerns. Anarchy reigned as wildlife across the country was decimated. The bushmeat trade thrived.
Coutada 9, which covers some 4450 sq. km in the Manica province, was left virtually devoid of wildlife.
The area also suffered serious habitat destruction with annual late season bushfires and the indiscriminate cutting of trees through “slash and burn” agricultural practices.
In 2002, Rio Save Safaris (RSS), was awarded the concession and set out to re-habilitate the area.
This short video highlights the work that Rio Save Safaris has carried out there.
Can Hunters Be Conservationists? from The Conservation Imperative on Vimeo.