Manda Wilderness Community Trust    HOME    GAME RESERVE    COMMUNITY PROJECTS    PHOTOS    AGRICULTURAL PROJECT |  Nkwichi Lodge   Game Reserve With the commitment and active involvement of the local communities an area of 100,000 Ha (1/4 million acres) of unspoilt wilderness, - brachystegia and riverine forest, savannah, swamps and streams, mountains and miles of beaches with crystal clear fresh water have been set aside to form the basis of Manda Wilderness Community Game Reserve. Wildlife In an effort to encourage the return of big game, the communities have agreed to stop the practice of burning the forest and savannah, tree felling, snaring and hunting with dogs. In a relatively short period the ecosystem has started to recover. Initially the bird life increased with the abundance of insects. Recently the numbers of small mammals are starting to increase , and it is hoped that this will encourage the return of the larger mammal species from the Niassa National Park, 150 km to the east. Before the wars this was one of the best big game areas in the country and has always been known for its biodiversity. At present hunting is illegal, and the wildlife that was decimated during the civil war is slowly recovering. Species found in Niassa province include buffalo, zebra, elephant, lion, leopard, sable, roan antelope, and the rare African Wild Dog. The bird life in Manda Wilderness is rich and varied. The crystal clear waters of the lake provide spectacular snorkelling and diving. The lake has about 1000 species of brightly coloured tropical fish, some of which have yet to be identified. Marine animals include two species of otter and occasional crocodiles. All game viewing is done on foot (or by canoe). See a list of birds or mammals. Game Reserve | Community Projects | Photos | Agricultural Project