Falling fish catches prompted more than 20 coastal communities on Tanzania’s Pemba Island to join forces with conservation organisations and government authorities to protect their marine ecosystems.
Officially gazetted in June 2026, the new North-East and South-East Pemba marine protected areas cover a combined 1,300 km². They safeguard coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds, providing habitats for threatened species such as reef manta rays and commercially important fish.
The initiative combines conservation with sustainable fishing, allowing local communities to continue earning a living while protecting marine resources. Measures include banning destructive fishing practices, protecting breeding grounds, restoring mangroves and introducing village rules to enforce sustainable practices.
Early signs are encouraging. Local fishermen report improved catches and incomes, while training programmes help residents develop new skills and explore alternative livelihood opportunities.
The project demonstrates how involving local communities in planning and managing protected areas can turn conservation goals into lasting results, offering a valuable example of how the global 30×30 target – protecting 30% of land and oceans by 2030 – can be achieved.
