At the UN Ocean Conference in June, Tanzania announced the creation of two new marine protected areas (MPAs) near Pemba Island, covering more than 1,300 km² of ecologically rich waters. The North-East Pemba Conservation Area spans 837 km², while the South-East Pemba Conservation Area covers 468 km². Together, they form a vital refuge for coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and several threatened shark and ray species.
A coral reef teeming with fish and marine life in Zanzibar. (©Wildlife Conservation Society / Newswise / via press release)
This move strengthens Tanzania’s contribution to the global “30x30” target—protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030—and demonstrates the country’s commitment to science-based and community-driven conservation. The new MPAs include:
• 70 km² of climate-resilient coral reefs, critical for biodiversity;
• 26 km² of seagrass beds supporting fisheries and carbon storage;
• 34 km² of mangrove forest, vital for shoreline protection;
• Habitat for threatened sharks and rays.
Destructive fishing methods such as ring and seine nets will be prohibited, reducing harm to vulnerable species. Local communities are co-designing zoning plans to include Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs) and coral reef restoration zones.
The MPAs follow an extensive public consultation—one of the most inclusive in Zanzibar’s marine history. Between December 2024 and March 2025, over 4,000 residents from 43 villages participated in community meetings, voting to support the protected areas. Fishers, local leaders, women and youth all contributed to shaping the conservation plans.
