Tanzania Ocean Conservation: Leading Global Efforts
- Off teh coast of zanzibar, Tanzania, Chumbe Island Coral Park thrives as a marine sanctuary.
- Sir David Attenborough, in his documentary "Ocean," emphasized the ocean's capacity to heal if allowed to breathe.
- Established in the mid-1990s, Chumbe Island Coral Park was among the first privately managed marine protected areas (MPAs) in the region.
Tanzania’s Chumbe Island: A Model for Ocean Conservation
Updated June 11, 2025
Off teh coast of zanzibar, Tanzania, Chumbe Island Coral Park thrives as a marine sanctuary. Once on the brink
of collapse due to unregulated fishing and coral bleaching, the reef now flourishes under private conservation
efforts. This transformation highlights the power of local stewardship in addressing the ocean crisis and
promoting marine conservation.
Sir David Attenborough, in his documentary “Ocean,” emphasized the ocean’s capacity to heal if allowed to
breathe. Tanzania’s approach, presented at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice, blends science, law, and community
in a way that has garnered international attention for its commitment to marine protected areas.
Established in the mid-1990s, Chumbe Island Coral Park was among the first privately managed marine protected
areas (MPAs) in the region. the park’s strict regulations—no fishing, anchoring, or pollution—have resulted in
remarkable coral cover, reaching over 90% in some areas. Rare species thrive, creating a balanced underwater
ecosystem.
Rukia Hassan, a local marine guide, emphasizes that conservation is essential for survival. The protected area
benefits nearby fishing zones, and local communities now support conservation efforts through ecotourism, which
funds education and creates jobs.
Salum Juma, a fisherman from Mbweni village, notes that banning fishing in the area initially raised concerns
but has since led to increased fish populations both within the reef and in their nets.
Tanzania’s National Marine Ecosystem Management Strategy sets ambitious conservation targets along its coastline,
supported by a growing network of MPAs. Danstan Johnny Shimbo, Director of Legal Services at the Vice
President’s Office, stresses that their ocean governance is driven by the need for survival.
Shimbo said Tanzania has ratified international marine agreements and is drafting regulations for deep-sea
mining, balancing economic interests with ecological preservation. He affirmed that Tanzania would not sacrifice
its ocean for mineral extraction.
The nation has also taken steps to combat blast fishing, collaborating with local communities to enforce
regulations and restore reefs. Education campaigns have shifted perceptions,framing destructive fishing as a
threat to future generations.
Fatuma Ali, a mother from Bagamoyo, said the focus has shifted from maximizing immediate catches to ensuring
enduring fishing practices for future years.
Despite these efforts, Dr. Enric Sala,a National Geographic Explorer,warned at the Nice summit that only a
small fraction of the global ocean is highly protected.He urged for bolder action to meet the 30×30 target,
emphasizing that current measures are insufficient.
Kristin Rechberger, CEO of Dynamic Planet, stated that MPAs are not a burden but a smart investment, yielding
significant returns through tourism, fisheries, and storm protection. Ecotourism in Chumbe Island already
supports education, conservation, and local livelihoods.
Tanzania’s strategy increasingly views the ocean as an economic asset, promoting sustainable practices in fishing,
blue carbon markets, and nature-based tourism.
Grace Mwakalukwa, a marine scientist from the University of Dar es Salaam, suggests that Tanzania’s success,
despite limited resources, should inspire wealthier nations to take more decisive action.
On Chumbe Island,schoolchildren learn about marine life and the importance of conservation,viewing the ocean as
a promise for the future. Rukia, the marine guide, said they teach the children to protect the ocean as they
would their own homes.
The world faces a critical moment for marine conservation, but Tanzania’s example offers a beacon of hope.
What’s next
Tanzania aims to expand its marine protected areas and further refine its sustainable ocean economy strategies,
addressing threats from climate change, industrial development, and pollution.