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.