A regional workshop in Dar es Salaam has brought together key stakeholders from Eastern and Southern Africa to address critical data gaps hindering marine ecosystem management. The two-day event, organized by the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) and backed by the European Union, aimed to foster collaboration, prioritize data needs, and develop strategies for sustainable marine conservation.
Bridging Data Gaps for Marine Resource Protection
Josephat Gacoki, an RCMRD expert in Forest, Biodiversity, and Seascape, emphasized that access to reliable data is crucial for effective marine resource management. He warned that without formal oversight, marine ecosystems are vulnerable to overuse and degradation.
“This workshop highlights the importance of data and information in protecting marine ecosystems. When resources are unmanaged, they often fall victim to the ‘tragedy of the commons,’” Gacoki noted. He also linked the event to an earlier workshop in Nairobi focused on forest and biodiversity conservation.
Cross-Border Collaboration Key to Success
Dr. Zakaria Ngereja of Ardhi University emphasized the need for cross-border data sharing, particularly for countries with shared coastlines. He noted that environmental threats in one nation can quickly impact neighboring countries, making cooperation essential.
“Data sharing allows us to make informed decisions and act proactively. Hoarding data limits progress, but sharing empowers communities and supports regional economies,” Dr. Ngereja explained. He called for a shift toward open data use to protect coastal ecosystems and enhance regional resilience.
Participants Commit to Collective Action
Attendees included government officials, scientists, researchers, NGOs, and community members from Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Mozambique, Seychelles, and Namibia. Discussions centered on identifying data gaps, developing strategies for data collection, and promoting knowledge sharing across borders.
Participants expressed a shared commitment to creating a unified approach to marine conservation, aiming to secure a sustainable future for Africa’s coastal regions. The workshop concluded with a call for ongoing collaboration and action to safeguard marine ecosystems and support coastal communities.
A Vision for Africa’s Blue Future
As part of broader regional initiatives, the workshop underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in conserving Africa’s marine resources. Stakeholders pledged to continue working together, leveraging data to protect biodiversity and foster sustainable development across the continent.