An iron and wool elephant named “Madala” is the latest artistic and environmental attraction at Camões – Centro Cultural Português in Maputo. The life-size sculpture, constructed from confiscated snares in the Niassa National Reserve, symbolises the ongoing fight against poaching in Mozambique.
Created by over 40 Mozambican and international artists, with the support of local communities, former poachers and forest rangers, “Madala” is a powerful artistic expression that unites culture, environmental conservation and community empowerment.
The metal structure, made up of hundreds of snares and tools once used in illegal hunting and mining, is covered in a vibrant wool skin, knitted by women from the Yao Crochet project.
The initiative, led by Colombian biologist Paula Ferro, also has a notable social impact: it offers training in crafts and crochet, creates employment opportunities and inspires local youth to pursue artistic careers.
The piece, which was previously on display at the Franco-Mozambican Cultural Centre, will be on display at Camões until August, representing the rich ecological and cultural diversity of the Niassa Reserve, home to the Macua, Yao and Swahili peoples.
(By MozaVibe)
