On Pemba Island’s northeast coast, a declining fish catch sparked action among local fishers and communities, leading to the creation of two new marine protected areas covering over 1,300 square kilometers. This major conservation effort showcases how local initiative and government cooperation can protect ocean ecosystems while sustaining livelihoods.
- Local fishers initiated new marine protected areas after years of declining catches
- Partnership formed between over 20 communities, Tanzanian government, and NGOs
- New zones cover 1,300 sq km, protecting coral reefs, mangroves, and key marine life
What happened
For years, fishers from Tumbe village on Pemba Island noticed their catches steadily shrinking, threatening their food security and income. Recognizing the urgency, local fisheries committee members conducted assessments and engaged their community in discussions about potential solutions. Inspired by the success of the Pemba Channel Conservation Area on the island’s opposite side, the community proposed new marine protected areas (MPAs) to local government.
This proposal led to a collaborative effort involving more than 20 coastal communities, the Tanzanian Department of Blue Economy and Fisheries, and conservation NGOs such as the Wildlife Conservation Society, Blue Alliance, and Mwambao. After extensive ecological assessments and community consultations, the government officially gazetted the North-East and South-East Pemba MPAs in June 2026, covering 1,300 square kilometers of diverse marine habitat and crucial species.
Why it feels good
The creation of the new MPAs answers a vital need for sustainable fisheries management, offering a hopeful example of community-led conservation benefiting both people and nature. Protective measures such as no-take zones, seasonal fishing closures, and bans on harmful gear help restore fish populations and preserve marine ecosystems, improving livelihoods and food security for local fishers.
Moreover, this initiative demonstrates how governments can work alongside communities and NGOs to translate international biodiversity commitments into effective local action. With the global 30×30 target aiming to conserve 30% of land and ocean by 2030, Pemba’s protected areas provide an inspiring case of turning commitments into real-world conservation success.
What to enjoy or watch next
Ongoing monitoring and enforcement by local fishing committees in collaboration with conservation organizations will be critical to the MPAs’ success. Visitors and observers can follow developments in how the protected areas foster recovery of coral reefs, mangroves, and species like the reef manta ray and yellowfin tuna, offering potential eco-tourism and scientific opportunities.
Looking forward, the Pemba model may inspire similar community-government partnerships across Africa and beyond in meeting biodiversity goals while supporting sustainable livelihoods. The progress here highlights the power of local voices driving environmental stewardship and the importance of collective action in protecting our ocean’s future.