By Eleanor Glass, CLP Programme Officer (Fauna & Flora)
On the northern coast of Tanzania, where the ocean sustains both life and livelihoods, two conservationists early in their careers are helping shape a more sustainable future — both above and below the waves.
Luqman conducting coral reef surveys in Tanzania © Luqman Ali/Mwambao Coastal Community Network
Mwanaidi Juma and Luqman Ali recently completed their CLP career placements with Mwambao Coastal Community Network and are now both officially employed by Mwambao. Their story is one of passion, persistence, and the power of opportunity — a testament to how investing in early-career conservationists generates lasting impact.
Luqman’s work takes him beneath the ocean’s surface. His Career Placement focused on reef restoration, using reef balls — specially designed structures that support coral growth and marine biodiversity. “This was something I had only read about in books,” he shared. “Now I have been doing it with my own hands. I’ve seen fish return, coral start to grow — it’s real, and it’s working.”
Corals are being restored in Tanzania thanks to work led by CLP mentees at Mwambao Coastal Community Network © Luqman Ali/Mwambao Coastal Community Network
Mwanaidi works directly with coastal communities. Her Career Placement involved delivering training on sustainable fishing, supporting local governance structures like Beach Management Units (BMUs), and building trust where scepticism once stood. “The biggest change I’ve seen is in people’s confidence,” she says. “They now feel ownership over the marine environment and resources. They understand that conservation isn’t just about protecting the ocean — it’s also about protecting their future.”
Her role also shines a light on the critical contributions of women in conservation. Through her work with women shellfish gleaners, Mwanaidi saw firsthand how empowering women leads to more sustainable outcomes. “Women carry so much responsibility in coastal communities,” she explains. “When we include them in conservation, we tap into a source of strength, knowledge, and leadership that’s often overlooked.”
Mwanaidi Juma leading a training with coastal communities © Mwanaidi Juma/Mwambao Coastal Community Network
Their recent employment at Mwambao is a huge milestone — both for them personally and for the CLP Career Placement initiative. It’s a clear sign that this model works: young people equipped with the right tools, support, and mentorship can thrive and drive real change in their communities.
As Mwanaidi puts it: “Success doesn’t come overnight. It takes time, learning, and heart. But if you give people a chance, you’ll be amazed what they can do.”
Coral reef surveys in Tanzania © Luqman Ali/Mwambao Coastal Community Network