Dolphin & Marine Conservation Volunteering in Zanzibar

What is the Dolphin and Marine Conservation project in Zanzibar all about?

Volunteer in Tanzania on a fabulous Dolphin and Marine Conservation project based on the island of Zanzibar and help to preserve the habitats of amazing species by monitoring tourist and human interaction. Located in Menai Bay, home to numerous sea creatures, including bottlenose and humpback dolphins and whales, the area is popular with tourists from all over the world.  However, tourists go out in fishing boats to see these dolphins and often jump into the water to swim with them and although friendly, the dolphins can sometimes be surrounded by up to 20 boats chasing after them, and this can cause them stress, particularly when they are feeding or nursing.

The main aim of the project involves working with the local community to promote marine conservation and the protection of the dolphins and their habitat. Dolphin tourism in the area is booming as it brings a good source of income to the local inhabitants. However, there are no tourism regulations and therefore, it is essential to ensure that the sea life in the area is not put at risk. The project scope includes working with the local community, run ethical dolphin tour workshops educating boat drivers on dolphins and monitor human-dolphin interaction and how it may affect their behaviours. The project also runs a resource centre which aims to educate locals and tourists about marine life. The data collected is fed into research studies which will help the government to determine how to regulate dolphin and tourist interaction in the long term, ultimately protecting this amazing species.

Why choose this Marine Conservation project?

• Provide more manpower and ensure the future protection of dolphins by getting involved with this local Tanzanian community and research experts.
• Learn about marine conservation and threats to wildlife including the impact of tourism and human interactions on the underwater world.
• Add the experience to your CV/Resume if you are studying or are already a marine conservation/tourism student

Role of the Conservation volunteer

As a volunteer you may be involved in the following activities:

• Monitoring dolphin behaviour: feeding, daily habits, reaction to humans, taking photos etc.
• Monitoring tourist numbers and tourist-dolphin interaction.
• Researching and monitoring fish and other species including whales (June to September).
• Researching coastal activities such as bivalve collection, coconut husk burying, rope making and seaweed farming.
• Assisting research students with their research.
• Helping a marine conservation club for youths.
• Helping develop and maintain the local resource centre
• Advocating for responsible dolphin interaction with local businesses and boat operators.

The project needs vary from time to time and volunteers’ tasks and activities will change accordingly, giving you the opportunity to gain insight into several aspects of marine conservation.

What skills do I need to be a Marine Conservation volunteer in Zanzibar?

All volunteers are welcome on this project as long as they can swim as this is an important factor for the research element of this project. You do not need any specific technical skills to participate in the project, although an interest in marine wildlife would be useful. You must love the outdoors. Cultural sensitivity is essential both at your placement and in your spare time. If you are a student and have specific course requirements, please speak to a Kaya Placement Advisor.

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