A dedicated group of islanders in Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago has achieved major success in their mission to save the stunning coral reef off the archipelago.

According to media reports, anxious to protect their livelihoods and way of life, the locals have embraced a conservation project to restore what’s been lost to atmospheric pollution, overfishing, and human activity.

It started a few years ago when locals noticed the reef’s distress as warmer sea temperatures had led to bleaching and killing the coral. Another mortal danger for the corals were some of the local fishermen who used dynamites for fishing and ended up destroying it, along with damage from unregulated tourist boats and divers.

Determined to save their natural wealth, in 2021, the islanders teamed up with local and international NGOs like &Beyond, and Africa Foundation.

They created underwater ‘nurseries’ using mesh tables to grow coral fragments. The locals trained as conservation rangers to learn to tend the nurseries and then replant the coral onto the reef after a few months.

The reports say that the results are encouraging as 80 pc coverage was restored on the ‘house reef’ surrounding Mnemba Island. Artificial reefs made of steel and stone were also created to replenish marine life. From an initial five coral tables used to cultivate the coral fragments, there are now 42 tables.

According to the NGOs, it is a a win-win, as restored corals benefit fishermen through regeneration of marine life, while creating new destinations for eco-friendly snorkelling and diving.

An accessible and suitable area of a local reef, often referred to as the Mnemba House Reef, was selected as a living laboratory for the project.

‘‘Initially, the area faced significant pressure from tourism, with 200 boats carrying at least 400 guests entering an area of only 200 sq metres. To preserve the area, the government, along with &Beyond and the Africa Foundation, decided to limit the number of visitors to 80,’’ says project coordinator Bakari Jaha.

The waters around Mnemba are now a protected area. Tourist fees have increased to enhance preservation and boost revenue. Fishing has been suspended around the recovering house reef, too.

“We have seen positive changes. Illegal practices, like the use of dynamite, have decreased, and fishermen have become more knowledgeable about sustainable fishing methods,” says local fisherman Mshenga Ally.

The Zanzibar government is so encouraged it plans to expand reef restoration to other threatened areas. While the project cannot stop warmer sea currents, those involved hope that their methods can be a model to help protect coral worldwide.

“The relationship between the sea and coral is crucial for ocean health. We are allowing sea conditions to restore the reefs to their original state,” Jaha adds.