It was great regret and consternation that the WCS Mozambique team learned of the tragic physical disappearance of their colleague, friend, companion in conservation battles, the young biologist LARA MUAVES, which occurred on 15 October 2021.
This news, left us perplexed, trembling and powerless in the face of such a situation of injustice, which unfortunately we witnessed this week and, we are confident that, whoever is entitled, in due time, will clarify what happened and that justice will be done as soon as possible. The WCS Mozambique team presents its deepest sympathy to the WWF team, friends and family of Lara.
Lara, was one of the brightest minds, characterized by her commitment to the recovery of marine resources, sustainable artisanal fisheries, and improving the livelihoods of local communities. She was an example to all those working in the field, and because of this, our recent marine team had the opportunity to talk to her several times about potential ways to collaborate.
With this irreparable loss not only the conservation world is poorer, but all the families in the fishing communities it had been supporting.
Lara Muaves by her way, dedication, enthusiasm, interest and knowledge about marine biodiversity in Mozambique, assumed an incomparable capacity and opened a strong light for the preservation of marine resources at national and international level; her loss leads us to say: "In you Lara, we lost several people in one person".
Rest in Peace, Lara Muaves!