The SOA Tanzania team is proud to highlight the participation of Ramadhani Jumanne Mwakae, a dedicated ocean leader and a member of our mangrove and blue economy working group, in the recent Inaugural Regional Workshop on Nature-Based Tourism in the Blue Economy. This landmark event, a collaborative effort by WIOMSA, the School of Wildlife Conservation at The African Leadership University, and the Ministry of Tourism Zanzibar, gathered 26 participants from across the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region.
Workshop Overview
The workshop, officially opened by Dr. Aboud Jumbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism Zanzibar, marked a significant step towards recognizing and enhancing the role of nature-based tourism in the blue economy. Spanning a week, the event focused on assessing the current status of nature-based tourism in the WIO region and exploring ways to unlock its full potential.
Key Objectives
- Creating a Regional Report: Establishing a comprehensive overview of the state of nature-based tourism in the WIO.
- Developing a Roadmap: Formulating strategies to maximize the benefits of nature-based tourism.
- Streamlining Data Collection: Improving methods for collecting data to support sustainable practices.
- Building a Community of Practice: Fostering a collaborative network of stakeholders in the region.
Hands-On Learning Experiences
Participants had the unique opportunity to visit Jozani Forest and Msonge Farm, gaining firsthand insights into community benefit-sharing and sustainable agricultural practices. These visits illustrated how local communities can thrive through nature-based tourism initiatives that prioritize sustainability.
Ramadhani Jumanne Mwakae’s Contributions
Ramadhani Jumanne Mwakae represented SOA Tanzania with a focus on empowering youth within the blue economy. He shared our organization’s initiatives, emphasizing the importance of eco-tourism and ocean restoration. His participation highlighted several key points:
- Untapped Potential: Ramadhani stressed that Tanzania’s seascapes represent a vast, largely untapped potential within the blue economy. This includes opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable resource management.
- Youth Empowerment: He emphasized the role of young minds in developing innovative solutions to harness the economic potential of marine ecosystems. SOA Tanzania is committed to supporting these young leaders through education and practical initiatives.
- Sustainable Practices: Ramadhani showcased how SOA Tanzania is driving sustainable practices in eco-tourism and ocean restoration, contributing to building a “generation restoration” that values and protects marine resources.
Key Takeaways
The workshop underscored several essential takeaways:
- Increased Awareness: Raising the profile of nature-based tourism in the blue economy is crucial for sustainable development.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Enhanced data collection methods are needed to support sustainable tourism practices.
- Community Benefits: Nature-based tourism can significantly benefit local economies and support community livelihoods.
Moving Forward
The Inaugural Regional Workshop on Nature-Based Tourism in the Blue Economy has set the stage for a brighter future. By fostering collaboration, raising awareness, and empowering the youth, the WIO region can unlock the full potential of its marine resources. The outcomes from this workshop will not only contribute to sustainable tourism but also support the broader objectives of the blue economy.
Ramadhani Jumanne Mwakae’s participation exemplifies SOA Tanzania’s commitment to these goals. We are excited to continue our efforts in empowering the next generation of leaders in the blue economy, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for our marine ecosystems and local communities.
Together, we can drive positive change and pave the way for a vibrant and sustainable nature-based tourism sector that benefits both people and the planet. 🌍🌊
Stay tuned for more updates on our initiatives and the impact of our work in the blue economy.
Join us in Mission today by contacting us via info@soatanzania.or.tz