Zanzibar’s blue economy faces severe risks from climate change, impacting fisheries and tourism, which support two-thirds of its population. Coral reef destruction and erratic weather patterns threaten food security. Immediate interventions are crucial, as reported by officials at a Circular Economy workshop, indicating the need for government action to protect livelihoods.
Zanzibar’s blue economy is increasingly threatened by the adverse effects of climate change. Rising sea levels, coral reef degradation, saltwater intrusion, and erratic weather are disrupting vital sectors including fishing, tourism, and agriculture, which are fundamental to the islands’ sustainability.
The fishing and tourism industries are crucial to Zanzibar, supporting approximately two-thirds of its population. Omar Mohamed, the coordination officer at the Ministry of Blue Economy, reported at a Circular Economy workshop that up to 54% of the population is impacted, necessitating immediate measures to safeguard livelihoods and maintain food security.
“Coral reef destruction is crippling tourism and fisheries, while saltwater intrusion and erratic rainfall are jeopardizing freshwater sources and agricultural productivity,” emphasized Mohamed. Furthermore, he highlighted the economic significance of these sectors, noting that fishing contributes between 4% and 8% of the GDP, while tourism represents over 29% of it.
Another participant, Mohamed Hamad, also stressed the findings from both research and fishermen’s accounts that indicate a decrease in fish breeding grounds. This underlines the urgent requirement for decisive government interventions to protect Zanzibar’s marine resources, as reported by Citizen Tanzania.
Located in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar lies just 15 miles off Tanzania’s coastline, making it particularly vulnerable to these changes in its environment.
In summary, climate change poses a significant threat to Zanzibar’s blue economy, affecting key industries such as fishing and tourism that sustain a large portion of the population. Urgent actions are needed to combat the deterioration of coral reefs, freshwater sources, and agricultural productivity. The continued emphasis on decisive government intervention is essential to maintain both economic stability and environmental health in Zanzibar.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
