The ReSea Project, implemented through a partnership between Mission Inclusion, IUCN, and Women Fund Tanzania Trust (WFTT) in collaboration with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, recently concluded a five-day in-situ training focused on Inclusive Governance and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for climate adaptation. The training was conducted over two days in Kusini Pemba and two days in Kaskazini Pemba, followed by a dedicated day to establish a Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA) network at the seascape level.
The Tanga-Pemba Seascape is home to ecologically rich coastal and marine ecosystems that sustain thousands of coastal community members. These ecosystems, however, face growing threats from overexploitation, habitat degradation, climate change, and limited participation of marginalized groups in governance. In response, the ReSea Project invested in strengthening community-based governance structures, including Beach Management Units (BMUs) and Shehia Fisheries Committees (SFCs), integrating NbS into the management and governance of marine ecosystems while making these structures more inclusive.
The training adopted participatory approaches to ensure the voices of women and youth were central. Activities included dialogues, real-life experience sharing, coral reef inspections, mangrove training, creative exercises such as songs to inspire women to speak, and “power walk” exercises addressing gender dynamics. These methods led to significant positive shifts in men’s perceptions regarding women’s participation in LMMA governance, with new male champions emerging, including officials from the Ministry of Blue Economy. Women participants gained confidence to engage actively, sparking lively debates and discussions on gender and marine governance.
LMMA practitioners also enhanced their technical knowledge on expanding conservation areas, implementing different management measures, and understanding the ecological and socio-economic benefits of NbS. The project facilitated the formation of the Pemba LMMA Forum, bringing together 92 practitioners from 54 SFCs. The forum established the Pemba LMMA Network, elected eight leaders, and jointly developed the Forum’s Terms of Reference and an action roadmap. Ownership of the network is now under the Ministry of Blue Economy, with ongoing collaboration from stakeholders including WSC and Mwambao.
Overall, the in-situ training strengthened inclusive governance and promoted NbS for climate adaptation across the Tanga-Pemba Seascape. By actively engaging women, youth, men, and local governance structures, the project enhanced technical restoration skills while fostering shifts in gender perceptions and leadership. The establishment of the Pemba LMMA Network represents a significant milestone, ensuring local ownership, sustained collaboration, and a strong foundation for resilient coastal communities and sustainable marine conservation in Pemba.
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