Tanzania is intensifying efforts to sustainably manage the Pemba Channel and its broader marine ecosystems, Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango announced at a side event held alongside the Third United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.
Addressing an audience of global marine and environmental stakeholders, Dr. Mpango underscored Tanzania’s resolve to position its Blue Economy as a benchmark for inclusive growth, environmental stewardship, and long-term climate resilience.
“Urgent, coordinated action is essential to protect our oceans for the benefit of current and future generations,” he said.
Tanzania is advancing a multi-faceted approach to mitigate ecological threats facing its marine environment, particularly within the Pemba Channel a vital corridor between the Tanga Region and Pemba Island, Zanzibar.
This region boasts critical ecosystems including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, which underpin the nation’s fishing industry, safeguard coastal communities, and buffer the impacts of climate change.
Key initiatives highlighted by Dr. Mpango include expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), with two new reserves in Pemba nearing official designation. This expansion underscores Tanzania’s commitment to preserving its unique marine biodiversity.
Community engagement remains central to Tanzania’s strategy. The government promotes participatory management models that integrate local stakeholders in conservation efforts, while fostering sustainable economic opportunities through alternative livelihoods and strengthening value chains for small-scale fishers.
These measures aim to ensure equitable, inclusive development aligned with environmental sustainability.
On the international front, Tanzania is fostering partnerships with financial institutions, NGOs, research bodies, and the private sector to leverage scientific research, secure funding, and drive innovation.
These collaborations bolster the country’s capacity to deliver measurable conservation outcomes and advance its blue economy ambitions.
The side event convened a diverse group of marine and environmental experts from around the world, highlighting Tanzania’s leadership in community-driven marine resource management a critical component for achieving global ocean sustainability goals.