Tanzania- Coral Reef Rescue Project - Overview

3,580 km²Total coral reef area

115,500 haMainland mangrove forest

400+Coral species on Mafia Island

70%Of artisanal fish production

2 BCUsPriority reef areas

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 - Coral Reef Rescue Project - Team

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

National Technical Facilitator Marine Parks and Reserves Unit (MPRU)

Davis Mpotwa
Acting Manager, MPRU

Godfrey Ngupula
Project Coordinator

Yusuph Rajabu
IT Officer

Tanzania - Key Focal Points

Priority areas in Tanzania sit within two Bioclimatic Units in Southern and Central Tanzania: the Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa (RUMAKI) Seascape and Tanga/Pangani region (BCU 24, Southern Tanzania), and the Pemba Channel Conservation Area (BCU 25, Central Tanzania).

Tanzania's Coral Reefs

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.

Tanzania's Biodiversity Conservation Units

BCU 24 · Southern Tanzania

The Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa (RUMAKI) Seascape and the Tanga/Pangani region make up Tanzania's southern priority area, together spanning some of the country's richest reef, mangrove and seagrass habitats.

Rufiji-Mafia-Kilwa Seascape (RUMAKI)

Stretching 365km along the coast south of Dar es Salaam, this Ramsar site comprises the Rufiji Delta, Mafia Island and surrounding reefs, and the Songo-Songo Archipelago. It's highly significant to Tanzania's biodiversity, containing over a quarter of the country's coral reef habitat and more than half of its mangrove forests.

26% of Tanzania's coral reef habitat (625 km²) 50%+ of mangrove forests (532 km²) Mafia Island Marine Park (822 km²) 80–100 nesting green & hawksbill turtles

Tanga / Pangani

Pangani, within the Tanga region, supports diverse coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds and coastal forests. Fishing is the major economic activity, supported by subsistence agriculture, with mangroves providing vital breeding and nursery grounds for commercially important species.

Coral reefs, mangroves & seagrass beds Key nursery grounds for sardines & catfish

BCU 25 · Central Tanzania

Pemba Channel Conservation Area (PECCA)

Located west of Pemba Island, PECCA stretches 42 nautical miles from the island's southern to northern tip, with a two-mile width from Fundo Island. The area is fully protected to allow it to act as a source of reef fish, and is well managed and closely monitored — though buffer areas with limited fishing around the no-take zones are still needed.

42 nautical miles, west of Pemba Island Fully protected, no-take zone

Latest Updates from Tanzania

Free Coral Reef Resources and Tools

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

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:

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