Restoration Efforts at Mnemba Island: Reviving Zanzibar’s Coral Reefs

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Looking out over the Indian Ocean from Mnemba Island, it’s hard to believe that just three years ago, the stunning coral reef surrounding this part of Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago was in decline. Threatened by climate change, overfishing, and human activities, local communities faced the loss of their livelihoods and the potential need to relocate.
To combat this, islanders have embraced a conservation project aimed at restoring the vibrant oval-shaped reef, which lies approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) off the coast. This initiative not only seeks to rehabilitate the reef but also to protect it for future generations.
Years ago, locals noticed the coral’s distress, exacerbated by rising sea temperatures. Coral, a unique animal formed from tiny creatures called polyps, builds a hard outer shell that creates vital ecosystems known as the “rainforests of the sea.” Unfortunately, increased water temperatures can lead to coral bleaching, as the coral expels the algae that provide essential nutrients.
Local fishmonger Juma Mshindan remarked on the drastic reduction in fish availability, highlighting the dire impact of environmental degradation. In response, the sustainable tourism group &Beyond and the Africa Foundation began collaborating with islanders in September 2021 to tackle these challenges.
Underwater nurseries were established using steel-mesh tables to grow coral fragments for replanting on the reef. Trained local divers, now conservation rangers, tend to these nurseries. Within two to three months, the coral colonies are ready to be replanted, leading to an impressive 80% coverage restoration on the “house reef” surrounding the island.
Additionally, artificial reefs made from steel and stone structures have been deployed offshore, further promoting marine life and providing new destinations for snorkelers and divers. Dr. Camilla Floros from the Africa Foundation emphasizes the importance of using appropriate materials for these structures, avoiding past mistakes associated with artificial reefs.
The success of these initiatives is largely due to the support of the local community. New conservation efforts are discussed with residents to ensure their involvement and investment in the project. Local resident Atu¬wa Omar, now a conservation ranger, highlights the personal and familial benefits her new role provides.
In 2022, the Zanzibar government designated the waters around Mnemba as a protected area, allowing for the implementation of measures to mitigate tourist and fishing damage. Bakari Jaha, co-ordinator of the Africa Foundation Zanzibar, noted the drastic reduction in tourist traffic, from 200 boats to just 80, while increasing the entry fee to $25 to enhance both environmental preservation and revenue.
Fishing around the house reef has been suspended during its restoration, leading to a decline in illegal practices like dynamite fishing. The government’s support for the Mnemba restoration project is now being expanded to other threatened areas.
While challenges such as rising sea temperatures persist, those involved in the Mnemba project remain hopeful that their efforts will aid in the recovery of coral reefs elsewhere. As Bakari Jaha notes, the health of the ocean and coral is vital, and their work aims to restore these ecosystems to their natural state.