From 24–26 September 2026, Tanzania’s first marine park, Mafia Island Marine Park (MIMP), celebrated 30 years of protecting marine biodiversity, empowering coastal communities and advancing sustainable blue development.
Established in 1995, MIMP safeguards 822 km² of marine and coastal ecosystems across 13 villages, supporting over 23,000 residents. Its three-decade legacy includes over 5,000 conservation patrols, a decline in recorded enforcement incidents from 300 to 36 annually, and investments exceeding TZS 1.69 billion in community development.
The vibrant three-day celebrations brought together government leaders, conservationists, researchers, development partners and coastal communities through exhibitions, scientific and business symposiums, community dialogues, sporting activities and the Mafia Whale Shark Marathon.
Officially opened by Hon. Hamad Hassan Chande, Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, the celebrations concluded under Hon. Ng’wasi Damas Kamani, Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries. This was followed by the High-Level Blue Dialogue, where stakeholders explored the future of marine conservation, responsible tourism and sustainable blue economy opportunities.
A memorable highlight was the presentation of honorary awards recognizing MIMP’s pioneering and former managers, alongside distinguished individuals whose contributions have shaped three decades of marine conservation.
More than an anniversary, the celebration reaffirmed MIMP’s commitment to resilient marine ecosystems, empowered communities and stronger partnerships for the next 30 years.
Find out more about Mafia Island Marine Park on: https://www.marineparks.go.tz/
To read the “30 Years Report of MIMP,” visit: https://www.marineparks.go.tz/uploads/text-editor/files/Mafia%20Island%20Marine%20Park%20institutional%20profile%20brochure_compressed_1790579054.pdf
