Dolphin Conservation Project
These last months research confirmed that unmanaged tourism affects dolphin behaviour, and observations of boat interactions were conducted to establish a baseline for future monitoring.
Our intern Maria from Wageningen University & Research (WUR) launched a photo-identification project to track the resident Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins in the Mnemba Atoll tourism zone, creating a catalog of individual dolphins and estimating the population. This information will be essential for long-term conservation.
To raise awareness, an information billboard was installed in Muyuni, the main boat launch area, promoting responsible dolphin-watching practices.
Looking ahead, the Eco Guide Training, planned for April 2026, will equip local boat operators with the knowledge and tools to interact with dolphins responsibly. The focus lays on ensuring a sustainable future for both tourism and the dolphins!
Key Community-Led Activities
Under The Wave coordinates and supports the following priority initiatives:
- Capacity Building: Training for SFC members and community facilitators on governance, fisheries management, conflict resolution, monitoring, and financial literacy.
- Participatory Decision-Making: Establishing and supporting SFC meetings, elections, and follow-ups to strengthen local governance of fisheries.
- Marine Resource Management: Conducting participatory marine mapping, habitat monitoring, and supporting community-led restoration projects to improve biodiversity and reef health.
- Fisheries Data Collection: Training community members and staff in data collection, monitoring, and analysis to inform sustainable management decisions.
- Food Security & Nutrition: Promoting the nutritional value of fish and supporting community awareness on dietary diversity.
- Economic Empowerment: Supporting financial inclusion through training on savings, credit, and community-managed financial groups (VSLAs).
- Community Learning & Exchange: Facilitating visits to other locations to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in sustainable fisheries management.
Through these activities, th
Role of Under The Wave
Under The Wave coordinates all SFC meetings, provides training, technical support, and ensures continuous follow-up. Our team connects the community with government and partner organizations and facilitates monitoring, data collection, and community-led restoration initiatives.
Communities are enthusiastic about this program, which represents a sustainable, locally-led approach to securing the future of Zanzibar’s marine resources and livelihoods.
Support This Program
You can help strengthen community-led marine management and conservation in Zanzibar. Your contribution will support training, restoration projects, and ongoing community capacity building.
Support This Program
You can help strengthen community-led marine management and conservation in Zanzibar. Your contribution will support training, restoration projects, and ongoing community capacity building.
