Empowering Local Stewardship of Coastal Ecosystems in Zanzibar: Participatory Models for Habitat Rehabilitation and Resilience

Coastal ecosystems in Zanzibar like mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds provide vital ecological and socioeconomic services yet face over degradation from deforestation, destructive fishing, pollution, and climate change. This empirical research seeks to assess the empowerment of local stewardship of coastal ecosystems in Zanzibar through participatory models for habitat rehabilitation and resilience. This necessitates extensive habitat restoration efforts. Community-based approaches that empower local stakeholders through participatory planning, implementation, and monitoring of initiatives like mangrove replanting, coral gardening, and sustainable fisheries management can foster greater buy-in and stewardship responsibility over time. However, securing enduring success requires long-term supporting frameworks from governments and partners, including financing, expertise, infrastructure, and policy assistance to fortify on-the-ground action. Regional coordination of local efforts can also optimise outcomes through information exchange and landscape-scale connectivity. Ultimately, centering restoration initiatives within community structures, traditional governance systems, and indigenous knowledge while ensuring dedicated external backing through integrated frameworks promises impactful and sustained coastal habitat rehabilitation.