TANZANIA, Bumbwini-Mkokotoni Bay, Unguja Island, Zanzibar - June 2011
Information and training center, support for alternative livelihood projects, and rehabilitation and restoration of degraded sites in exchange for the conservation and restoration of a 610 hectare (1,507 acre) mangrove forest for a minimum duration of 14 years
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The Bumbwini-Mkokotoni Bay is located on the north coast of Unguja Island, Zanzibar. The bay is host to the Bumbwini-Mkokotoni mangrove, a 1,507 acre forest that is an important ecological site which provides rich fishery grounds for the local community. The site also has important fauna including red colobus monkeys, chameleons and other reptiles, and several species of birds. The mangrove forest has faced increased environmental degradation from waste disposal, clear-cutting of mangroves, poor agricultural practices leading to increased erosion and sedimentation, overfishing and general lack of awareness among the local community. As a result, the Society for Natural Resources Conservation and Development of Zanzibar, together with a number of community based organizations and village conservation committees, have come together to initiate efforts to conserve and manage the mangrove forest within Bumbwini-Mkokotoni Bay. Seacology is funding the construction of an information and training center, alternative livelihood projects (such as basketry and beekeeping), and mangrove restoration in exchange for the conservation and restoration of 1,507 acres of mangrove forest for a minimum duration of 14 years.
