Tanzania Overview

Tanzania - Coral Reef Rescue Project - Team

Focal National Government Ministry: Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (MPRU)

National Technical Facilitator: Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (MPRU)

•  Acting Manager MPRU: Davis Mpotwa

•  Project Coordinator: Godfrey Ngupula

•  IT Officer: Yusuph Rajabu

Tanzania - Key Focal Points

Tanzania's Coral Reefs

Tanzania’s coral reefs, covering approximately 3,580 km², are a treasure trove of marine biodiversity, with Mafia Island boasting over 400 coral species, making it one of the most diverse reef ecosystems globally. The country’s extensive mangrove forests, including 115,500 hectares on the mainland and 18,000 in Zanzibar, play a crucial role in coastal protection and support thriving ecosystems.

The Rufiji Delta, home to the largest mangrove stand on the East African coast, is particularly noteworthy. These vibrant coral reefs and mangroves are vital for artisanal fishing, supporting 70% of Tanzania's fish production and underpinning a booming coastal tourism industry, which generates significant economic benefits. There is growing recognition of the importance of including women in these sectors, paving the way for more equitable opportunities in fisheries and tourism.

Tanzania is committed to preserving its unique marine heritage, with key conservation efforts focused on the Pemba Channel Conservation Area, the Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa Seascape (RUMAKI), and the Tanga/Pangani region. The Pemba Channel is a fully protected marine haven, while the RUMAKI Seascape encompasses critical habitats like the Mafia Island Marine Park and the Rufiji Delta, which hosts Tanzania’s richest mangrove diversity. The Tanga/Pangani region is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, with local communities thriving on sustainable fishing and agriculture. These efforts highlight Tanzania's dedication to fostering sustainable development while preserving its rich marine biodiversity for future generations.

Latest Updates from Tanzania

• Protecting Tanzania’s Coral Reefs: From Community Action to National Progress
• Tanzania's Marine Parks and Reserves Unit engages the Mafia District to increase awareness about coral reef conservation
• Marine Parks and Reserves Tanzania reach out to local districts and stakeholders to build capacity around safeguarding coral reefs

New Resources 

The GEF -7 Coral Reef Rescue Project has released free online courses and resources on coral reef conservation. These include;

• Coral Reefs: Introduction to Challenges and Solutions  
• Coral Reefs: Data and Monitoring 
• Coral Reefs: Sustainable Blue Economy
• Coral Reefs: Climate Resilient Communities

Alongside these courses, a new online decision support tool was created Coral Reef Rescue Portal. This brings together over 70 existing coral reef datasets and resources in one easy-to-use, searchable platform.

Relevant documents:  

• Strategic Action Plan for the Sustainable Management of the Western Indian Ocean Large Marine Ecosystems, May 2019 
• The Nairobi Convention 
• National Fisheries Sector Policy and Strategy Statement (1997) 
• Fisheries Act (2003) Tanzania Mainland 
• Tanzania National Integrated Coastal Environment Management Strategy 
• National Environmental Management Act (2004) 

*Note:The Project Document has more information about Tanzania's reefs and their involvement in the Coral Reef Rescue Project.