About Us
Kilwa District BMU Network
Promoting Sustainable Fisheries and Empowering Coastal Communities in Kilwa
The Kilwa District BMU Network was officially established in 2018 as a platform to unite and strengthen collaboration among the BMUs across coastal villages within Kilwa District. Prior to its formation, BMUs operated in isolation, facing challenges related to enforcement, data collection, and governance. The need for a collective structure became evident as communities struggled to address illegal fishing, unsustainable marine practices, and the growing impact of climate change on coastal ecosystems. With support from local government authorities and development partners, the network was created to coordinate shared goals in marine conservation, promote knowledge exchange, and amplify the voices of local fishers in decision-making processes. Since its inception, the Kilwa District BMU Network has played a key role in facilitating octopus reef closures, organizing community patrols, conducting fisheries data collection, and empowering women and youth through livelihood initiatives. Today, the network comprises of 29 BMUs and continues to grow as a recognized model for fisheries co-management and community-led conservation along the Tanzanian coastline.
Our History
No History content available.
Vision
To unite BMUs with other co-management institutions in fisheries to build collective strength.
Mission
A Kilwa with well-organized and participatory BMUs that promote effective fisheries management and sustainable development
What We Do
Empowering BMUs through advocacy, conservation, law enforcement, and sustainable livelihoods.
Why Choose Our Approach?
We provide integrated support to Beach Management Units (BMUs) through a mix of capacity building, advocacy, environmental protection, and livelihood development, ensuring community-driven sustainable fisheries.
Advocacy & Networking
Representing BMUs in policy forums and working with NGOs, government, and research partners.
Environmental Conservation
Engaging communities in mangrove restoration, coral reef protection, and climate awareness.
Livelihood Support
Promoting alternative income activities like eco-tourism, seaweed farming, and empowering women/youth.
Surveillance & Law Enforcement
Organizing patrols to monitor illegal fishing and enforce national fisheries regulations.
Capacity Building
Training BMU members on laws, leadership, finance, and strengthening local collaborations.
Our Partners
We collaborate with various organizations to achieve our goals.
Blue Ventures
Blue Ventures
Blue Ventures
Core Values & Specific Objectives
Our guiding principles and goals driving sustainable fisheries management and community empowerment.
Core Values
Collaboration
We value joint efforts among BMUs, communities, and all stakeholders for shared success.
Accountability
We are responsible for our decisions and actions in safeguarding marine resources.
Transparency
We promote clear communication and openness in all decision-making processes.
Integrity
We strive to be honest, ethical, and truthful in all our undertakings.
Respect for the Environment
We respect and protect the marine environment for current and future generations.
Community Empowerment
We believe empowered communities can effectively conserve their resources.
Specific Objectives
Promote Community Participation
Facilitate active involvement of local fishers, women, youth, and other stakeholders in fisheries governance and decision-making processes.
Coordinate BMU Activities
Strengthen coordination among BMUs across Kilwa District to harmonize practices, share information, and advocate for better fisheries policies and support.
Support Sustainable Fishing Practices
Promote responsible fishing methods, enforcement of fisheries laws, and community-based monitoring to reduce overfishing and protect critical habitats.
Enhance Capacity Building
Provide training, awareness, and technical support to BMU members to improve their ability to manage resources effectively and transparently.
Foster Partnerships
Collaborate with local government, NGOs, and private sector actors to support fisheries development, conservation, and alternative livelihoods.
Advocate for Rights and Benefits
Represent the interests of fishing communities in policy dialogues, ensuring fair access to resources and equitable benefit-sharing.
Services
Empowering BMUs with comprehensive support for sustainable fisheries management and community development.
Advocacy and Networking
Representing BMUs in local and national policy forums and collaborating with NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions for joint action.
Environmental Conservation
Engaging communities in mangrove restoration, coral reef protection, and raising awareness on climate change and marine biodiversity.
Livelihood Support
Promoting alternative income-generating activities like seaweed farming, eco-tourism, and beekeeping while supporting women and youth groups in improving their income.
Surveillance and Law Enforcement
Coordinating community patrols to monitor illegal fishing and resource use while promoting compliance with national fisheries regulations.
Capacity Building
Training BMU members on fisheries laws, leadership, financial management, and conflict resolution while strengthening collaboration between BMUs and local authorities.
Latest Blogs
Stay updated with our recent news and articles
News Update Kilwa District BMU Network Participates in the Africa Climate Summit 2025
From September 5–10, 2025, the Kilwa District BMU Network took part in the Second Africa Climate Sum...
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Octopus closure Demarcation in Pombwe Village- May 1, 2025
On May 1, 2025, the Kilwa District BMU Network conducted a field visit to Pombwe Village to support...
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Fisheries Data Collection Training Empowers 13 BMUs in Kilwa -May 23–24, 2025
The Kilwa District BMU Network successfully conducted a two-day training workshop on fisheries data...
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