Mangrove forests are vital coastal ecosystems that provide numerous ecological, economic, and social benefits, including shoreline protection, habitat for diverse species, and carbon sequestration. In Pemba, these invaluable forests are under significant threat due to various human activities.
Several anthropogenic factors have been identified as primary contributors to the degradation of mangrove ecosystems globally, and similar patterns are observed in Pemba:
Urban Expansion: The development of infrastructure, such as housing and public facilities, often leads to the clearing of mangrove areas to accommodate growing populations.
Agriculture: Conversion of mangrove forests into agricultural lands, including rice paddies and livestock pastures, has resulted in significant habitat loss.
Aquaculture: The establishment of shrimp farms and other aquaculture practices has led to extensive mangrove destruction, particularly in regions where these activities are prevalent.
Charcoal Production: The cutting down of mangroves for charcoal production has been a significant factor in mangrove loss in various regions.
These activities have collectively contributed to the alarming decline of mangrove cover in Pemba, mirroring global trends where at least 35% of mangrove forests have been lost since the 1980s.
In response to this pressing environmental challenge, the Popular Inspiring and Relief Organization (PIRO) has launched a proactive initiative supported by Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund aimed at restoring mangrove ecosystems in Pemba. The project targets the restoration of at least 10 hectares across the shehias of Shungi, Tundauwa, Ndagoni, Kuukuu, and Kangani, with each shehia benefiting from the restoration of 2 hectares.
PIRO is collaborating closely with forestry officers to mobilize local communities in these areas, emphasizing the importance of active participation in both the planting and conservation of mangroves. A cornerstone of this initiative is community engagement; PIRO has conducted awareness-building sessions with 10 local leaders in each shehia to foster a collective sense of responsibility and stewardship towards these critical ecosystems.
Through these concerted efforts, PIRO aims not only to rehabilitate degraded mangrove areas but also to instill a sustainable conservation ethic within the communities, ensuring the long-term health and resilience of Pemba’s coastal environments.
Mangroves restoration community awareness at Tundaua.
Community Awareness meeting at Shungi
After the meeting discuss at Ndagoni we visited various areas which are deteriorated and need urgent action for restoration.