The Africa Fair Seaweed Finance Facility (AFSFF): Empowering Coastal Communities through Sustainable Seaweed Farming
The Africa Fair Seaweed Finance Facility (AFSFF) is an initiative that aims to transform East Africa’s coastal seaweed farming sector through Climate financing using the CLEAR model. This is through a partnership between Tanzania’s Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) and Kenya’s Mawimbi Ocean Innovation. This groundbreaking initiative strengthens climate resilience, enhances productivity, and improves livelihoods in coastal […]
HISTORICAL CHRONICLES OF THE TANZANIA DIVELAB 2024
Celebrating Tanzania’s Newest Dive Instructors Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) announces the certification of Husna Amimu and Mbonea Mdoe as Dive Instructors through the Tanzania Divelab Initiative. Husna is the first Tanzanian female dive instructor from the initiative. This milestone advances Tanzania’s diving community and marine conservation efforts. Their progression from Dive Masters to Instructors shows how […]
AFO Expands Global Impact Through Strategic Partnerships
Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) has marked a transformative year in 2024, establishing key partnerships that strengthen its position in marine conservation and environmental sustainability. Through strategic alliances with Maliasili, the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), 1% for the Planet, and the OCEAN Grant Programme, AFO has catapulted its impact on marine ecosystem protection and […]
AFO’s 2024 Expansion in Review: Yearly Growth and Impact
As 2024 draws to a close, Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) reflects on a year marked by extraordinary growth and expansion, unwavering dedication to marine conservation, and a deep commitment to uplifting coastal communities. This year, AFO took bold steps to expand its impact, strengthen its team, and extend its reach across Tanzania, reinforcing its role as […]
USAID Heshimu Bahari Project x AFO: Pioneering Marine Conservation Success in Tanzania
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working in Eastern Africa’s marine conservation space through several initiatives. Among them is the USAID Heshimu Bahari (“Respect the Ocean”) project in Tanzania. Working in partnership with Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO), this initiative has catalyzed both innovation and improvement in sustainable marine resource management, demonstrating remarkable […]
Partnership Secured for Coastal Community Project in Southern Tanzania by AFO under OCEAN Grants
Another significant milestone for both Aqua-Farms Organization and the coastal communities of Southern Tanzania as we proudly announce our inclusion among the 20 funded projects globally under the Ocean Community Empowerment and Nature Grant Programme (OCEAN). This initiative, unveiled during Nature, Indigenous People, and Oceans Day at COP29, aims to deliver impactful solutions that tackle […]
We are Breaking the Vicious Circle! (AFO’s Blueprint)
The Vicious cycle is an unprecedented crisis. Heard of it?This is a complex web of threats; climate change, overfishing, harmful aquaculture practices, ecosystem collapse, and community impoverishment which has created a self-reinforcing cycle of degradation. But also, within this crisis there is an opportunity for a transformation. AFO along with other leaders in the blue […]
Why Our Communication Matters in Marine Conservation
You can never protect what you can’t see The vast, blue expanse of our oceans holds secrets, wonders, and challenges that many of us can scarcely imagine. Yet, these waters that cover over 70% of our planet are facing unprecedented threats. From plastic pollution to overfishing, from climate change to habitat destruction, our oceans are […]
Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Global Climate Change; A Global South Perspective on Climate Solutions
The global impact of climate change is escalating. Africa, as a significant part of the Global South, is increasingly turning to its rich heritage of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) for sustainable solutions. Aqua-Farms Organization has recognized the immense value of TEK in developing resilient and sustainable practices for our marine conservation and community livelihood improvement […]
Project Extension to Mnazi Bay(MBREMP) in Mtwara (MBREMP); ‘Establishing a Voluntary Carbon Credit Market to Restore Mangroves and Support Vulnerable Coastal Communities’
The project “Establishing a Voluntary Carbon Credit Market to Restore Mangroves and Support Vulnerable Coastal Communities” in Tanzania, led by Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) also named the Blue Carbon Project, aims to establish a voluntary carbon credit market while supporting vulnerable coastal communities and restoring degraded mangrove areas. This project is implemented under funding from Ocean […]
AFO at 2024 New York Climate Week: Advancing the future of Marine Conservation and Sustainable Coastal Livelihoods in context of the Global South
The New York Climate Week 2024, held from September 22-29, brought together global leaders, innovators, and changemakers to address pressing climate challenges. However, the representation and voice of African nations in such high-profile events remain a critical concern. The continent, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, faces some of the most severe impacts of […]
AFO scales its interventions to Mafia and Tanga Seacapes
Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) is excited to announce the expansion of its ocean conservation and livelihood support initiatives into two new seascapes: Mafia and Tanga. This marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support coastal communities and protect vital marine ecosystems. With the establishment of new offices in these regions, AFO will be able […]
Marine Conservation and Community Livelihoods: Supporting the UN Ocean Decade 2030 Agenda
The ocean is the lifeblood of our planet, covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface and playing a pivotal role in sustaining life. From regulating climate to providing food, medicine, and economic resources, its influence is undeniable. Yet, despite its critical importance, the ocean is under threat from overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. […]
How the Women in the Global South have become driving forces in the Sustainable Blue Economy
The blue economy, encompassing all economic activities related to oceans, seas, and coastal areas, represents a crucial frontier for sustainable development. In recent years, women in Global South countries, Tanzania inclusive have emerged as key contributors to this sector, bringing innovation, resilience, and sustainability to marine-based livelihoods. Their roles not only enhance local economies but […]
Enhancing local stakeholders engagement for conservation of coral reef ecosystem within Pepokibukwa Collaborative Fisheries Management Area (CFMA), Tanzania
In efforts to protect Tanzania’s vibrant coral reef ecosystems, Aqua-Farms Organization is spearheading a community based project within the Pepokibukwa Collaborative Fisheries Management Area (CFMA) which seeks to halt the destructive impact of illegal fishing and overfishing that threaten this vital ecosystem. The project focuses on the villages of Buyuni, KwaMoris, Puna, and PembaMnazi, where […]
FROM INTERNS TO DIVEMASTERS
You can remember those days when you were just starting out (Could even just be riding a bike), feeling like a small fish in a big pond? Well! Everybody has started somewhere; we’ve got a tale that signifies the immense belief in the power of dreams and hard work. Meet Our Terrific Trio Face Cards […]
Why We Need To Invest in the Next Generation of Ocean Leaders
Since 2021, Aqua Farms Organization has been investing in the next generation of Ocean leaders in partnership with Africa refocused program, a partnership between Nature, Environment, Wildlife and Filmmaking Organization (NEWF) and National Geographic Society through Tanzania Dive labs For the past 3 years, over 25 individuals have been certified under different scuba levels from […]
Our Journey through the African Marine Conservation Leadership Program
Clocks tick so fast; the past 8 months have run by with extreme advancement of our Leadership capabilities. “We all have individual leadership styles, and each matters.” Our Executive Director, Jerry Mang’ena and Underwater Program Lead, Ms. Nancy Iraba were privileged to be part of the 2nd Cohort of the African Marine Conservation Leadership Program […]
Partnership Alert: AFO Joins ORRAA as Full Member in Strengthening Ocean Resilience
After three years of partnership with the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) is honored to announce its full membership to ORRAA. This milestone signifies our dedication to ocean conservation, coastal community resilience, the sustainable blue economy and most importantly our commitment in building long lasting relationships. AFO and ORRAA first […]
Unfolding Progress for African Fair Seaweed Finance Facility (AFSFF)
The African Fair Seaweed Finance Facility (AFSFF) project is an initiative that is implemented in the coastal regions of Tanzania and Kenya, spearheaded by the Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) and Mawimbi Ocean Innovations, and is set to revolutionize seaweed farming. This project is specifically designed to uplift women-led farming groups, cultivating sustainable practices and enhancing livelihoods. […]
How the USAID Heshimu Bahari Activity is empowering Kilwa’s Coastal Community
The USAID Heshimu Bahari Activity, which means “Respect the Ocean,” is helping local communities take care of their marine environment while improving their lives. We have had this conversation before. Over the past three months, Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) has been busy running capacity building and training sessions for community members and local leaders. These aren’t […]
CHRONICLES OF THE MALIASILI COMMUNICATIONS WORKSHOP JUNE 2024
Our Executive Director Jerry Mang’ena likes to tell us that “communication is the lungs of any organization” and that took us back to Effective communication which is the cornerstone of any successful organization because it all lies in knowing what constitutes good communication, understanding our audiences, and shaping the perception. These critical elements were at […]
OUR INSIGHTS FROM WILDSCREEN FESTIVAL TANZANIA 2024 IN ARUSHA, TANZANIA
Asking for a sentence that best describes the Wildscreen Festival Tanzania 2024 #WSFTZ2024, Simply put can be ‘A Celebration of African Storytelling Brilliance’ Majestically Gorgeous right? Recalling the time in Arusha, Tanzania the #WSFTZ2024 took us all on a majestic safari I can say, taking us all on an immersive journey through our rich spirit […]
EMBRACING CARBON ONSETTING: A VALUABLE INSIGHT FROM PROF. JERRELL RICHER – GOSHEN COLLEGE
Yesterday (June 19th,2024), I had the privilege of hosting Prof. Jerrell from Goshen College, USA. Our discussion delved into the depths of environmental conservation and carbon management, and I came away with a profound understanding of a concept that has reshaped my approach to sustainability: carbon onsetting. Understanding Carbon Onsetting In the world of environmental […]
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR OWN NANCY IRABA: 2024 National Geographic Wayfinder Award Recipient!
With so much honor and joy we are proud to announce that Nancy Iraba, our esteemed Underwater Program Lead at Aqua-Farms Organization, on June 6th 2024 was announced and honored to be among the recipients of the Prestigious 2024 Wayfinder Award presented by Kia and National Geographic! Nancy’s journey in marine conservation has been nothing […]
THE VOICE ACTIVITIES CLOSURE AFTER 8 YEARS OF SUCCESS
For the past eight years, The Voice has been committed to creating better communities in Eastern Africa, and we at Aqua-Farms Organization were lucky to be part of these wonderful years filled with impactful stories of growth and commitment. The Bahari Hub project was a major focus engagement we carried out under The Voice. […]
KILWA SEASCAPE ACTIVITY UNDER USAID HESHIMU BAHARI-INCEPTION & INTRODUCTION MEETING
In Kilwa’s Seascape, a transformative initiative is taking shape, one that promises to empower coastal communities and foster sustainable marine conservation. The USAID Heshimu Bahari project, a beacon of hope for Tanzania’s marine ecosystems, has entrusted Aqua-Farms Organization (AFO) and a number of several organizations with a pivotal role in this endeavor along Tanzania’s coastal […]
Empowering Change: Introducing The Africa Fair Seaweed Finance Facility
In a world grappling with the effects of climate change, the need for sustainable and resilient aquaculture practices has never been more pressing. Shallow water seaweed farmers, particularly in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region (Tanzania, Kenya and Mozambique), are facing unprecedented challenges. Lower yields and an increased prevalence of disease are symptomatic of the […]
Our January-March journey on the Mangrove Blue Carbon Project
The first quarter was so fast paced having a number of activities and targets we had to achieve as we set out for the project. 1. Research to support the carbon credit project Stakeholders Mapping & Risk Analysis The social-economic drivers for mangrove loss at the sites in Tanzania. Mapping mangrove ecosystem service and use […]
OUR PARTICIPATION IN THE 2024 NEWF FELLOWS SUMMIT & CONGRESS
We are so excited to share our recent participation in the 2024 NEWF Fellows Summit & Congress, which was held at the Elangen & Maharani Southern Hotel in Durban, South Africa from February 26th to March 1st, 2024. The NEWF Fellows Summit & Congress is an annual convergence of minds, bringing together scientists, storytellers, filmmakers, […]