Our Team

“IF YOU WANT TO GO FAST, GO ALONE.
IF YOU WANT TO GO FAR, GO TOGETHER.”

AFRICAN PROVERB

we are from coastal communities

We know their challenges, yet we also know their strong potential and great strengths. We bring technical skills, science, systems, and structures to support communities to more effectively and fairly manage their marine resources – for today and tomorrow.

The Mwambao Team supports the learning and development of the network, communicates with and about the network, and implements supporting projects with network members & other coastal communities.

Our team has grown steadily since 2010. In 2023 we have 46 staff based in 4 different teams located in Pangani and Tanga city on mainland Tanzania, and Pemba and Unguja Islands, Zanzibar.

Unguja

Said Khalid (Dip in Forestry-Olmotonyi Arusha 1988; ADCA – IDM-Mzumbe 1994; CPA (T) – 2003; MBA-
UDSM-2008) has more than 20 years of experience in the management and administration of marine,
environmental, natural resource and livelihood programs. He worked with Government of Zanzibar at
the Forestry Department as in charge of Forestry Inventory and survey section and then at the
Department of Agriculture as Assistant Accountant – ADB-Rainfed Rice Development Project.
After that he joined with African Wildlife Foundation in their program the ‘Zanzibar Environmental
Education Program’. Thereafter joined with Environment & Development Group (EDG) on their
Protected Areas Program called Misali Island Conservation Project. Before joining Mwambao he worked
with CARE International Tanzania in several capacities. First at the Jozani Chwaka Bay Conservation
Project and then at the CARE Tanzania Head Quarters in Dar Es Salaam. He was among the Senior
Leadership member of CARE Tanzania and the Head of Finance before Joining MWAMBAO team in July
2020. He joined Mwambao as the Head of Finance and Administration before moving into the role of
Chief of Operations and became Chief Executive Officer for MWAMBAO in February 2023.

Ali has worked in the natural resources sector (forestry & fisheries) under Zanzibar Government for more than 10 years. He has has also worked for CARE International and WWF Tanzania for more than 12 years in Communication, Awareness and Training. Ali is from Zanzibar and for the last 7 years he’s worked in community-based coastal resource management. He is an excellent facilitator and an experienced practitioner of Participatory Video. He has a passion for education and a deep sense of community.

Email: alythani@mwambao.or.tz

Raised in Kenya, Lorna has a long history of work in environmental conservation and development issues. She is a strong proponent of the community’s role and voice in management of natural resources and believes in the power of participatory video in making a difference. Trained as an ecologist and in PV methodology she is committed to building the Mwambao network.

Email: lornaslade@mwambao.or.tz

Sakhile Tsotsobe is currently Chief Technical Advisor at Mwambao Coastal Community Network Tanzania, and is responsible for donor relations, fund raising, technical guidance and advice, and providing overall leadership in programme and project management. This role follows a 10-year stint as an independent consultant specialising in marine protected areas, ocean economy, and small scale fisheries, within Africa. Tsotsobe’s early careers include marine research towards supporting sustainable fisheries in South Africa, as well as working at local government as Coastal Coordinator for the City of Cape Town, developing coastal management systems and driving integrated coastal management within the municipality.

Juma is a passionate Marine Conservation and Livelihoods professional with over 7 years of experience in Credit and Business development in SMEs in coastal communities. Coming from a finance background with a Master’s in Finance and Investment from Coventry University UK, Juma has worked in corporate banking and international development, managing private sector development programs focusing on regional economic integration and small and medium enterprises. Juma is a member of the African Marine Conservation Leadership Network and represents the first marine cohort of the African Marine Leadership Programme. He is currently working for Mwambao as Head of Operations, managing all marine programs across the Zanzibar islands of Unguja and Pemba, as well as the Tanga region on mainland Tanzania.

Mohammed, widely known as Gola, was raised in Zanzibar, with a profound history of working in education and administration in government settings. His passionate commitment and experience in supporting marginalized and local communities realizing their full potential towards their immediate resources and livelihood opportunities with NGOs encouraged him to pursue a Master Degree in Community Development. For the last 5 years he has worked as a Community Engagement Officer with RTI/Plan International. He is excellent in community engagement through participatory facilitation, partnership and capacity building, resource monitoring and mentoring. He is motivated to work with MCCC to support coastal communities’ build resilience in their surrounding marine resources.

Abubakar is an experienced Village savings and Loans professional with over 26-years working with coastal communities. He started his career as a Cooperative Marketing Officer and later joined CARE International in Tanzania, while he was at CARE he was a co-founder of the Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLAs) where he began working on the Jozani and Chwaka Bay Conservation Project (JCBCP).

Ramadhani Saidi is an experienced wildlife professional with over five years of expertise in terrestrial and marine conservation particularly in monitoring, evaluation, and learning. He strongly believes in involving communities in conservation efforts, recognizing their pivotal role in both causing and solving environmental challenges. Having previously worked with pastoral communities on human-wildlife conflicts and rangeland monitoring, Ramadhani now focuses on coastal communities facing different conservation challenges such as overfishing, illegal fishing, and logging of mangrove forests. As the Spatial Data and Analytics Manager at Mwambao Coastal Community Network, he is passionate about using GIS and SMART Patrol Tool technologies to conserve marine resources and improve coastal livelihoods.

Ali is a certified public Accountant.

Nuru comes from an educational background as she used to teach chemistry and biology. Born and raised in Zanzibar Island Nuru holds a Master degree in environmental science from State University Of Zanzibar. She has five years working experience in fisheries and marine resource sectors in the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources, Livestock and Fisheries Zanzibar where she worked as Marine conservation Officer. She has been involved a lot of research work on fisheries, as she once worked as a Research Officer at Institute of Marine Science .

Fatma holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry & nature conservation. Prior to joining Mwambao Fatma worked in Government, national and International non-government organisations. Fatma has worked for many years as a community strengthening officer in natural resources management and was a gender focal person for CARE International under HIMA-REDD+ project, and she is keen to engage women in all development activities. She is exceptionally committed and capable, and particularly enjoys her work in the field, communicating with and bringing network members together to discuss common challenges and find strategies for improvement.

Aliy Abdurahim Aliy is an expert in natural resources conservation and management, with more than 20 years of experience working with national parks/forests and community lands. With further experience working in the ecotourism sector, Aliy brings a diverse skill-set to the Mwambao team. He’s committed to knowledge and skill exchange as he believes that knowledge is flexible and is ever expanding, so long as you learn and let others learn from you.

Naomi has worked within various industries namely hotels, banking, construction, food and beverage as well as for NGOs. Previously she worked in administration and finance supporting roles for the above industries, and as chief custodian and teller for a well known bank.

Fat-hiya gained valuable experience by working with various organizations, which enhanced her ability to encourage and motivate eco-sustainable resource activities. Her passion and commitment to improving people’s welfare, spreading organizational missions, and shaping future generations have been evident throughout her career. These qualities ultimately led her to join the Mwambao team as a Human Resource Manager.

Shija is a seasoned programme manager with a passion for Natural Resource management, Private sector engagement and improved community livelihoods. With more than 15 years of experience worked with various donor funded organisations at senior levels. He has developed skills on strategic leadership, cross-functional team management, organisational abilities, and financial management. Others are on nature-based solutions, sustainable ecosystem systems and climate change adaptation and mitigations. Shija can also work well on projects monitoring and evaluations using both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Throughout his career, Shija has successfully managed diverse projects including private owned companies and community-based organisations across all levels.

Kaijage is an accomplished Ecological Data Manager with a multifaceted background in marine research, biodiversity assessment, and conservation science. With an innate passion for the intricacies of aquatic ecosystems, Laurian’s professional journey is marked by a dedication to advancing our understanding of marine life.
Kaijage’s foundation in marine science was solidified during their tenure as a Research Assistant under the BIOEEL-TZ project. With a skill set spanning from data management to fish biology, Kaijage brings a holistic approach to ecological management. As an Ecological Data Manager, Kaijage embodies the fusion of scientific expertise and a passion for preserving our aquatic ecosystems. His contributions not only advance our understanding of marine life but also underscore the critical role of data-driven conservation in safeguarding our natural heritage. Connect with Kaijage on LinkedIn to explore their journey in ecological data management and marine conservation

Baraka is a skilled Communications and Public Relations professional with a track record in managing web content, implementing effective social media strategies, and overseeing both internal and external communication channels. With extensive experience in tracking media projects and enhancing media exposure, Baraka excels at editing and distributing content, including photos and videos. Currently, he is leveraging their expertise in communication within marine conservation programs.

Ali was born and raised in Kiwengwa. He holds a diploma in Financial Accounting from Zanzibar Institute of Financial Administration, currently known as State University of Zanzibar. Ali joined Mwambao in 2017 as a part time data entry officer entering octopus catch data and was later promoted to Data Management Officer. He has now joined Mwambao on a full time basis as Data Management Officer for both catch monitoring and MKUBA eco-credit scheme data.

Rashid is a core member of our accounts team, He holds an Advance Diploma in Accounting from ZIFA and Bachelor degree in Economic Development from Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy and currently he is pursuing a Masters Degree in Finance and Economics at Zanzibar University. His previous experience before working with Mwambao includes working in administration and finance for ACRA International NGO.

Shadya has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), research, gender equality, project planning, and management. Shadya is passionate about data, especially when it comes to how data can be used to inform project direction and assist community stakeholders in sustainably managing their resources.

As a seasoned ESMS (Environmental and Social Management System) expert, Freeman is a driving force in sustainable development initiatives in the region. With a profound understanding of environmental and social dynamics, Freeman has dedicated his career to implementing comprehensive Health Safety and Environment (HSE) frameworks that promote responsible project practices and mitigate environmental impact. Working form Mwambao, he brings in a wealth of experience in designing tailored solutions for diverse industries, fostering stakeholder engagement, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Yunnus Said is a dedicated Co-Management Program Officer with a profound passion for marine conservation. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Aquaculture, Yunnus combines a strong academic foundation with hands-on experience in aquatic ecosystems and sustainable practices. An avid snorkeler and diver, he connects personally with the marine environment, fueling his commitment to preserving oceanic ecosystems. His holistic approach to co-management programs ensures that marine conservation efforts are both effective and sustainable, making him a valuable advocate for the protection of marine life.

Ms.Raya Ali Rashid from Zanzibar completed her bachelor’s degree in gender and development in 2020, she is dedicated to gender and youth-friendly activities as she has volunteered at Bwagamoyo youth-friendly service as a gender officer for two years. Currently, she is working with Mwambao as a field officer based at Unguja, she is very interested to work with local and marginalized communities in empowering them towards effective management of marine resources for socio-economic well-being. She is eager to promote women’s involvement and active participation in decision-making as well as increase their benefits from marine resources.

Lamis Khalfan Seif is a dedicated Co-Management Program Officer at Mwambao Coastal Community Tanzania, specialising in Best seaweed farming practices. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aquaculture from Sokoine University of Agriculture. Lamis is passionate about sustainable aquaculture practices and works tirelessly to support coastal communities in Tanzania in improving their seaweed farming techniques. With her expertise and commitment to environmental conservation, Lamis is making a positive impact on the livelihoods of local communities and the health of marine ecosystems.

Hanifa holds a Bachelor degree in Financial Administration from Zanzibar Institute of Financial Administration, currently known as School of Business from State University of Tanzania. She has experience of accounting from working as an accountant for Taifa Private School. She is happy to join Mwambao where she can be able to practice her profession as well as contribute to conserving the environment.

Ali Mohamed Mzee is a dedicated finance professional whose journey has led him to his current role as an Assistant Accountant at Mwambao Coastal Community Network. With a strong background in accounting & finance with information technology and a passion for community development, Ali plays a crucial part in ensuring transparent financial management to support various initiatives within the organization. His commitment to continuous growth, combined with his belief in the transformative power of finance, underscores his dedication to fostering positive change and equitable progress through effective financial practices.

Gabriel Benjamin Masala, from Tanzania, completed his bachelor’s degree in aquaculture in 2020. He has a diverse background in marine conservation and the fish processing industry, having volunteered for one year in marine conservation and worked for another year in the fish processing industry. In 2023, he joined Mwambao as a Co-Management Program officer. Gabriel is passionate about empowering communities to sustainably manage their environment and is committed to enhancing his knowledge in co-management. He is dedicated to fostering community capabilities in environmental stewardship.

A valuable member of our office team, Juma worked for a seaweed export company for many years. He supports our team needs in Unguja and is very happy to assist with field work including weighing octopus!

Always a cheerful friendly face, Hamida assists with keeping our office in a liveable state and joins in wherever she can.

Always a cheerful friendly face, Salama assists with keeping our office in a liveable state and joins in wherever she can.

Mussa has vast experience in Transportation

Pemba

Formerly a fisheries officer, Ali has spent more than 20 years on fisheries issues and community work in Zanzibar. He is very knowledgeable and passionate about building the capacity of communities for local fisheries management. While supporting Mwambao for several years, he formally joined us in 2017 as our Project Officer in Pemba working to build the capacity of Pemba Channel Conservation Area.

Omary is a young and energetic graduate in Geography and Environmental Studies from University of Dodoma. His conservation career journey started when he was volunteering in Mafia District Council in the Environment Department. This paved away for Omary to start the journey towards his passion, by being selected to work as Park Ranger for Mafia Island Marine Park. Omary is happy to join Mwambao as he is now working on his dream of conserving the environment.

Ruwaida Said Issa a dedicated Finance Admin & Logistic Officer for MWAMBAO/MCCC where She regularly practise her leadership, decision making, financial monitoring, inventory management skills, with extensive experience in accounting and finance. Ruwaida got her experince by working with different organizations such as D-tree international and Zan coastal cambridge Academy. She is passionate about gaining new knowledge, cooking and family care.

Omar graduated with a Diploma in Aquaculture Technology at the Fisheries Education and Training Agency (FETA) in 2015. He also holds a Bachelor Degree in Environmental Planning and Management from Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP) completed in 2019. Omar has recently been the member of YODESO (Young Development Society) in Pemba. He is a Field Officer in Pemba, and leads activities such as Participatory Biodiversity Monitoring. Omar is capable and well experienced to work with folks showing MWAMBAO’s great support to communities’ young groups. He is eager to bring youth together and inspire them to consider their chance in any other Development issues.

Farhiya Elmy is a dedicated Marine scientist and science communicator with a profound passion for the wonders of the Ocean and the coastal world. As an expert in her field, she not only contributes to scientific research but also actively engages in the development of coastal communities. Her expertise extends to skilled diving and specialized knowledge in coral, mangrove restoration.

Her wealth of experience in Marine ecosystems includes hands-on work in coral reef restoration, showcasing her commitment to the health and sustainability of these vital environments. Farhiya’s multifaceted role as a scientist, communicator, and community developer underscores her dedication to advancing our understanding and conservation of Marine ecosystems

Ali is a community based trainer from Kukuu Village in Pemba. He holds a certificate in Journalism from the Department of Information Zanzibar and 20 years working experience in community facilitation on village savings and loans, as well as community mobilizer on savings, entrepreneurship, soft skills and small business management.

Coming from a fisheries community in Pemba with a always a smiling face Ali plays an important role of making sure that our staff reaches the Field safely and on time. Having vast experience as a driver for construction companies in Pemba Ali joins Mwambao to help his fellow fisheries communities in Pemba to sustainably manage their resources

Pangani & Tanga

Zulefa Hamad is a skilled Finance Administration and Logistics Officer known for their meticulous approach to managing financial operations and coordinating complex logistical processes. With a strong background in finance, she excels in budget management, financial analysis, and resource allocation, contributing to cost savings and strategic planning. Additionally, her adeptness in logistics is evident through her ability to ensure timely deliveries, maintain precise records, and navigate challenges with ease. With a commitment to collaboration, proficiency in software tools, and a constant drive for growth, Zulefa Hamad proves to be an invaluable asset in optimizing operations and achieving Mwambao success.

Paul is an experienced officer working for more than 15 years with the coastal communities within Rufiji Delta. He coordinated all the co-management activities within the area, including community capacity building, supporting revenue collection and management of resources. Paul holds a Diploma in Master Fisherman from FETA and is happy to join the Mwambao team supporting revenue collection and management to help fishery resources management and development.

Tumaini is a young upcoming officer, having a Bachelor degree of Wildlife Management and diploma in aquaculture. He has been working as a fisheries officer at Chamwino District and he is a founder of Aquaculture and Agriculture services for Conservation project (AAS Tanzania). Tumaini is happy to join Mwambao as he wants to spearhead conservation of the marine resources through community and other stakeholders.

Afikile, widely known as Wille, is an upcoming marine conservation professional, with a history of working in the fisheries sector for 5 years. His passion, commitment, and experience in supporting local communities in managing their marine and coastal resources for sustainability, in love with conservation careers encouraged him to pursue an Ordinary diploma in fisheries management & later a Degree in shipping and logistics management. For the last 2 years joining Mwambao and he has been working as a fisheries Co-management field Officer based in Mkinga (Tanga). He is excellent in community engagement through participatory facilitation, capacity building, resource monitoring, in-water surveys, mentoring, etc.

Mlagala is a dedicated environmental conservationist with a strong connection to coastal regions. His journey into environmental and coastal resource management began at the Fisheries Education and Training Agency in Mbegani, Bagamoyo. Throughout his academic journey, Edward actively engaged in fisheries activities, serving as a Quality Controller on various fishing vessel processing plants for four years.

His commitment to environmental conservation continued to grow, leading him to work with the Beach Management Unit (BMU) within his local community.

Bagaya is a marine biologist who possesses a B.Sc. in Fisheries and Aquaculture. He acquired his professional education from the renowned University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) in Tanzania.

His career began in the government sector, where he served in various positions as a fisheries expert.

He then transitioned to the private sector and is currently working as a Program Officer at the Mwambao Coastal Community Network. In this role, he collaborates closely with fisheries communities to empower community-based organizations in improving and strengthening natural resource management and stewardship.

Catherine Fridolin is a dedicated marine scientist with over 5 years of hands-on experience in marine conservation. An open water diver, she firmly believes that “you can’t conserve what you can’t see,” which drives her deep commitment to protecting and restoring marine ecosystems. Catherine’s work focuses on building climate resilience, improving community livelihoods, and fostering sustainable development through the conservation of marine resources..As a Mangroves Restoration Officer at Mwambao, she plays a pivotal role in leading mangrove restoration efforts, working closely with local communities to enhance conservation strategies and ensure the long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems. Catherine’s expertise spans data management, community engagement, and ecosystem-based management approaches

Shymaa is a dedicated Coastal Livelihood Officer at Mwambao Coastal Community Network. With extensive experience in natural resource management, Shymaa has worked across various fields, including wildlife conservation, freshwater ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems, climate change adaptations programmes and environmental impact assessment. Her role focuses on empowering coastal communities through sustainable livelihood programs, climate change resilient livelihood programs, enhancing ecosystem management, and promoting biodiversity conservation. Shymaa brings expertise in integrating environmental sustainability with community development, ensuring the balance between natural resource use and livelihood improvement.

OUR TEAM

“IF YOU WANT TO GO FAST, GO ALONE. IF YOU WANT TO GO FAR, GO TOGETHER.”

AFRICAN PROVERB

we are from coastal communities

Unguja

Said Khalid

Ali Thani

Lorna Slade

Sakhile Tsotsobe

Dr Anne Laudisoit (PHD)

Juma Mohamed

Mohammed Gola

Abubakar Othman Masoud

Ramadhan Saidi

Ali Issa

Nuru Said Salum

Fatma A. Khamis

Ali Abdurahim

Naomi Muisu

Fat-hiya Idrisa

Shija Msikula

Kaijage Laurian

BARAKA SIMBA

Ali Mzee Ali

Rashid Abdallah

Shadya Juma

Anthony Ndjovu

Mohammed Seif

Freeman Urio

Yunnus Said

Raya Rashid

Lamis Seif

Hanifa Hamdan Omar

Ali Mohamed

Gabriel Masala

Juma Faki

Hamida

Salama

Mussa Mohamed

Pemba

Ali Said

Omary Ukasha

Ruwaid Said

Omar Ismail

Farhiya Elmy

Ahmed Ali

Amina Khamis

Yahya Mwadini

Muzdalifat Hamad

Ali Khamis Khatib

Ali Aziz

Yussuf Khatib

Ali Abdulla

Pangani & Tanga

Ahmada Salim

Zulefa Abdullah

Joseph Desideri

Paul Mbandi Ikangala

Tumaini Jackson Mwanyemi

Masanja Joram

Wille Moses

Edward Mlagala

Kengela Mashimba

Sheha Haji

Bagaya Bwana

Catherine Fridolin

Shiza Mwantima

Shymaa Uwesu

Faraji Mgaya

Marwa Chacha

Adrianon Tidah

Ali Darasa

Bakari Mkabala

Juma Ndallamah

Francis Mrinji

Tausi Dauka

OUR TEAM IS OUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET

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“IF YOU WANT TO GO FAST, GO ALONE.
IF YOU WANT TO GO FAR, GO TOGETHER.”