Our vision for the future

A vital and thriving coral reef and marine conservation area, Maziwe Island, that benefits the local economy and supports a diverse marine ecosystem:

• Ensure surrounding community effectively manages and benefits from marine park

• Support research that helps with awareness, advocacy, and strategic decision making

• Support ongoing patrol and enforcement efforts of the park that ensure conservation efforts continue

IMPACT

Turtle conservation in Maziwe Island

Maziwe Marine Reserve is a small island located on the northern shores of Tanzania. One of the oldest marine reserves in Tanzania, this vibrant coral reef ecosystem supports over 400 species of fish as well as coral, sponge and algae species. Maziwe is also considered the most important breeding ground for turtles in East Africa. This coastal ecosystem is not only essential for its dependent wildlife but also for the long-term sustainability of the livelihoods of people living in the area.

In 2005, Dorobo Fund together with the local Ushongo/Pangani community, recreational stakeholders, and Tanzania Marine Parks and Reserves Unit with the common goal of protecting the marine reserve. Over the years, this unique and collaborative endeavor has resulted in financial incentives for local fishermen, the government, and local tourism businesses.

One of the major successes has been the Friends of Maziwe Turtle Conservation Program. The island serves as an important nesting ground for green turtles, which crawl up the sandy shore to lay their eggs. However, changes to the island’s structure have led to the inundation of the turtle nests at high-tide which eggs are unable to survive. The Friends of Maziwe Turtle Conservation Program, in partnership with the Ushongo village community and conservation officers, relocate turtle nests from the inundated beaches of Maziwe Island Marine Reserve and Kikogwe Beach to a protected area on Ushongo Beach.

This project has relocated more than 330 turtle nests and released over 60,000 baby turtles into the ocean. Additionally, we expect to see long-term and wide-reaching benefits as Maziwe serves as a source area to boost fisheries in the greater area and for overall biodiversity and coastal conservation in East Africa.