Optimizing Mangrove Conservation in Tanzania: Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement Strategies

Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems in Tanzania are well-adapted to their natural environment but are facing significant degradation. The primary driver of mangrove loss and degradation is the reliance of local communities on these ecosystems for their livelihoods. Despite various conservation efforts aimed at protecting coastal wetlands in Tanzania, success has been limited. The Mangrove Capital Africa Programme is working to reduce this degradation by involving stakeholders in the conservation and management of mangroves along the Tanzanian coast. This study focuses on stakeholder mapping and analysis to understand livelihood patterns and their relevance to sustainable ecosystem conservation. The analysis reveals that numerous stakeholders with varying levels of potential and importance are involved. Effective conservation strategies must consider these variations in stakeholders' roles and potentials. To optimize stakeholder engagement, categorization into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels is essential. Primary stakeholders, who are crucial to understanding, are those directly utilizing the mangrove resources, such as local communities engaged in fishing, farming, and salt production. Secondary stakeholders, while not directly involved in resource utilization, influence sustainable management practices. This group includes Ward councillors, district councils, NGOs, CBOs, and certain government organizations like TFS and development partners. Tertiary stakeholders, who neither use nor manage the resources but have an interest, include government ministries, research and academic institutions, and businesses. Understanding these stakeholder categories is vital for effective conservation and management of mangrove ecosystems.