Lucas Comer: Defender of Mozambique’s green legacy

Um engenheiro florestal dedicado à preservação de plantações e ao fortalecimento das comunidades locais
  • Who: Lucas Comer
  • Profession: Engenheiro Florestal da Green Resources
  • Location: Malulu, Província de Niassa, Moçambique

In the rolling hills and fertile land of northern Mozambique, Lucas Comer dedicates his life to sustainable forestry. As a forestry engineer with Green Resources for over 14 years, Lucas oversees a vibrant plantation of pine trees, planted with the vision of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

“Here in Malulu, we’ve cultivated these trees for about a year and a half,” Lucas explains, gesturing towards the flourishing rows of young plants.

Each sapling represents a commitment to the future, with over 56 hectares planted last year and plans for even more this year. Lucas’s leadership is pivotal, coordinating with over 100 laborers and eight contractors who carry out essential tasks on the plantation.

To ensure quality and efficiency, Lucas emphasizes the importance of training. “Before allocating activities, we provide mini training programs to the workers,” he shares. This focus on education fosters a skilled workforce equipped to manage the demands of the plantation, from weeding to fire control. “In our work, we must adapt to the rhythms of nature, especially when it comes to rainfall,” he notes, acknowledging the challenges posed by unpredictable weather.

The workforce on the plantation reflects a diverse community, with laborers coming from Lichinga, Muembe, and other local areas. Lucas expresses a preference for working with women, appreciating their diligence and collaborative spirit.

“Women are often more willing to engage actively, which enhances productivity,” he explains.

Despite the beauty of his surroundings, Lucas remains aware of the environmental threats that loom large. “The biggest challenge we face is fire. It poses a significant risk to our plantations and the surrounding ecosystem,” he warns. The devastation caused by uncontrolled fires is a constant concern, motivating Lucas and his team to be vigilant in their fire prevention efforts.

Lucas’s passion for his work is evident. “I thrive on challenges,” he admits. His vision extends beyond the plantation; he is committed to creating sustainable practices that respect the environment while supporting the local economy. When trees are felled, nothing goes to waste. “Every part of the tree is utilized. We supply usable timber for poles, and the rest is collected by the community for cooking,” he explains, demonstrating a commitment to resource efficiency.

The relationship between Green Resources and the local community is built on collaboration and mutual respect. “We have established strong connections, ensuring that we address any concerns that arise along the way,” Lucas emphasizes. His role as a mediator and leader ensures that safety and health standards are upheld, protecting the workforce while promoting sustainable practices.

Looking to the future, Lucas is cautiously optimistic yet deeply aware of the challenges posed by climate change. “We must be proactive in our approach to manage the impact of climate-related issues,” he asserts. His dedication to preserving the forest and its resources drives him to advocate for innovative solutions and sustainable forestry practices.

As Lucas walked along the winding path, he reflected on the journey so far and the miles yet to travel in his mission for sustainable forestry. The path to sustainability is fraught with challenges, but his unwavering commitment to nurturing the land and empowering the community paves the way for a brighter, greener future for Mozambique.