Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF)
“Guardians of Mozambique’s giant ocean wanderers.”
The coast of Mozambique stretches along the Indian Ocean — a wild, biodiverse waterscape where manta rays, whale sharks, and migratory whales pass through some of the most important feeding grounds on the planet.
Among the organisations working tirelessly to study, understand, and protect these ocean giants is the Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF), based in Tofo Beach.
As part of Marine Conservation Worldwide, MMF represents the power of science-led conservation: groundbreaking research, community engagement, and a deep commitment to safeguarding the megafauna that define Mozambique’s marine identity.
About MMF
The Marine Megafauna Foundation (MMF) is one of the world’s leading research organisations dedicated to the protection of marine giants such as manta rays, whale sharks, reef sharks, and humpback whales.
Based in Tofo Beach, Mozambique, MMF combines cutting-edge marine science with community engagement and long-term conservation strategies.
Their work has led to breakthrough discoveries, including identifying new manta species, uncovering migration routes, and influencing global protection measures.
Our Impact
Long-term research programs
Tracking population trends of manta rays, whale sharks, and other vulnerable megafauna.
• Conservation & policy impact
MMF’s data directly supports national and international protection measures (CITES, CMS).
• Community education
Working with local schools and fishermen to build sustainable, ocean-friendly futures.
• Global capacity building
Training young scientists, especially from Mozambique, to become future conservation leaders.
MMF -
Current Programs & Initiatives
🌊 Ocean Giants Program
Long-term studies on manta rays, whale sharks & reef sharks.
📸 Manta Ray Photo-ID & Tracking
Identifying individuals, mapping movements, protecting key habitats.
🦈 Whale Shark Ecology
Monitoring feeding grounds, migration routes & population health.
🐋 Humpback Whale Surveys
Seasonal monitoring of mother–calf pairs & vocal behaviour.
🎣 Fisheries & Bycatch Reduction
Working with local fishers on safer, sustainable practices.
🏝️ Marine Protected Areas Support
Science-based input to strengthen coastal protection zones.
👧🏽 Community Ocean Education
School programs & awareness projects across Inhambane Province.
Volunteers
MMF welcomes volunteers and collaborators who share a passion for marine ecosystems and scientific conservation.
While the organisation’s work is primarily research-based, there are occasional opportunities for divers, photographers, and students to support monitoring activities or public outreach events in Madeira.
Volunteers may assist with:
🤿 Research Diving Support
Volunteers assist with manta & whale shark photo-ID and behavioural observations.
📊 Data Entry & Analysis
Helping process field data, image catalogues and survey results.
🪸 Marine Monitoring
Reef health checks, plankton tows, environmental measurements.
📚 Community Education
Supporting school visits, beach talks & local ocean-awareness programs.
🌍 Internships & Training
Opportunities for students and early-career conservationists to gain real field experience.
