secretary@wiomsa.org

Securing the Future

of the Western Indian Ocean

The Western Indian Ocean is one of the world’s most biologically rich and economically vital marine regions. WIOMSA strengthens the science, governance, and conservation systems required to safeguard its ecosystems and the millions of people who depend on them.

Regional science.
 Policy impact.
 Ecosystem resilience.

Regional science.
 Policy impact.
 Ecosystem resilience.

Coastal & Marine Ecosystems
Coastal & Marine Ecosystems

Renata Romeo / Ocean Image Bank

Protecting Our Ocean
Through Science and Action

Working across the Western Indian Ocean to turn knowledge into real conservation and management impact.

From Data → Decision → Impact

View Research Opportunities

Explore Our Impact

  • 10 Countries Working TogetherCollaborating to protect shared marine ecosystems
  • 450,000+ km² of Ocean SupportedSafeguarding critical habitats and biodiversity
  • 200+ Marine Managed Areas StrengthenedImproving protection for people and nature

Peter Chadwick

Our Strategic Pillars

WIOMSA programme framework

Explore Programmes

Ecosystem Protection

Supporting countries to achieve the Global Biodiversity Framework through integrated, science-driven systems that link data, policy, finance, and on-the-ground implementation

MARCOP, Hifadhi Blu, WIOCOMPAS, WIOMPAN, Critical Habitats Outlook, MPA Outlook Report.

Monitoring, Data & Decision Systems

Building the conservation intelligence architecture of the region—harmonising monitoring tools and strengthening management effectiveness systems.

Climate, Blue Carbon & Coastal Resilience

Advancing science and policy for seagrasses, mangroves, and coral reefs.

Western Indian Ocean Coastal and Ocean Resilience Initiative, Large-Scale Seagrass Mapping and Management Initiative,  ReSea project.

Capacity & Workforce Transformation

Professionalising marine conservation across the Western Indian Ocean through certification and training.

MPA management Course, Marine Conservation Planning, Wetland Management Courses.

Ben Jones / Ocean Image Bank

Science & Knowledge Hub

Regional evidence | Global standards

WIOMSA is a science-policy platform connecting researchers, governments, and practitioners. Access regional status reports, publications, policy briefs, data platforms, and thematic working groups.

Explore Research & Data

Western Indian Ocean Region

From coral reefs and seagrass meadows to offshore seamounts and high seas ecosystems, the WIO is globally significant. These ecosystems sustain livelihoods, protect coastlines, store blue carbon, and support migratory species and ocean connectivity.

Strategic Partnerships

Invest in the Western Indian Ocean

Strategic investment in science-driven conservation, monitoring systems, and workforce development will determine whether the region achieves 30×30 and long-term resilience. Partner with WIOMSA to secure one of the world’s most vital ocean regions.

Become a Strategic Partner

Our Vision

A prosperous Western Indian Ocean region with healthy rivers, coasts and oceans—supported by science, guided by policy, and sustained through regional cooperation.

Address

Physical Address: Mizingani Street, House No. 734, Zanzibar.

Postal: P. O. Box 3298, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania.