In Mozambique, the struggle for sustainable development is closely linked to protecting vital ecosystems like mangroves, which are crucial for coastal livelihoods and climate resilience. Despite their clear importance, challenges such as limited access to long-term funding, lack of public awareness, and poor governance have hindered effective conservation. To address these, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), through Safe Our Mangroves Now! (SOMN), has led a transformative environmental policy approach. In response to global biodiversity and climate goals, Mozambique aims to protect 30% of terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030. This goal is part of the National Territorial Development Plan (PNDT) for 2020-2040, which aims for a “prosperous, competitive, sustainable, and inclusive Mozambique.” The PNDT serves as a comprehensive framework and includes critical efforts such as mangrove mapping and the approval of a Mangrove Implementation Strategy, which are essential for preserving these ecosystems.