Education Health Economy Social Cultural Sports Technology
Education Health Economy Social Cultural Sports Technology

8+

Years of experience

Who We Are

Protecting nature nurturing a sustainable future

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, we are a dynamic non-governmental organization committed to safeguarding the natural heritage of Zanzibar for present and future generations. Founded on the principles of sustainability, equity, and community empowerment, Climate Watch Zanzibar stands at the forefront of the fight against climate change and environmental degradation in the region.

Our mission is to protect, restore, and sustainably manage Zanzibar’s fragile ecosystems—from its lush mangrove forests and coral reefs to its endangered species and coastal communities. As climate change continues to pose urgent threats such as rising sea levels, habitat loss, and extreme weather events, our work has never been more critical.

We collaborate with local communities, government bodies, global environmental networks, and private partners to implement impactful, science-based solutions. Through education, advocacy, renewable energy programs, coastal protection projects, and youth-led climate action, we are building a resilient Zanzibar—one that thrives in harmony with nature.

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, we believe environmental stewardship is not just a responsibility—it's an opportunity. An opportunity to create green jobs, foster eco-tourism, and drive sustainable economic growth across the islands. Together, we’re proving that environmental protection and prosperity go hand in hand.

Join us in shaping a greener, cleaner, and more climate-resilient Zanzibar.

Who We Are

Building a Sustainable Future with Innovation

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, we are a passionate, grassroots-driven non-governmental organization based in the heart of Zanzibar, dedicated to protecting our environment, fighting climate change, and building a sustainable future for our islands and communities. Founded on the belief that local action creates global impact, our mission is to empower Zanzibaris—especially youth and coastal communities—to become stewards of their natural heritage.

As one of the leading environmental NGOs in Zanzibar, we work at the intersection of climate resilience, marine conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental education. From restoring degraded mangroves and coral reefs to promoting eco-friendly community enterprises and advocating for bold climate policies, our initiatives are rooted in science, equity, and traditional knowledge.

We believe that tackling climate change isn't just about policies—it's about people. That's why we focus on inclusive, community-led programs that create green jobs, protect biodiversity, and strengthen our island’s resilience to rising sea levels, storms, and environmental degradation.

With strategic partnerships locally and internationally, we are turning environmental challenges into opportunities—cultivating a Zanzibar that thrives economically, socially, and ecologically.

Climate Action & Policy
We advocate for ambitious climate policies at local, national, and international levels. Our research-backed campaigns aim to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Ecosystem Protection
From reforestation projects to marine conservation, we work to preserve the Earth's most vulnerable ecosystems—empowering local communities as stewards of the land.

Environmental Education
We equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools to lead climate solutions through school programs, workshops, and youth-led initiatives.

Sustainable Innovation
Partnering with scientists, entrepreneurs, and governments, we scale nature-based solutions and green technologies that benefit both people and the planet.

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, our mission is to protect Zanzibar’s unique ecosystems, combat climate change, and empower local communities through innovative, sustainable, and inclusive environmental solutions. We are committed to restoring marine and terrestrial biodiversity, promoting renewable energy, and fostering eco-conscious livelihoods that drive both environmental preservation and economic prosperity. As a dynamic non-governmental organization.

we aim to be a leading force in making Zanzibar a model for climate resilience and green development in East Africa and beyond.

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, we envision a sustainable future for Zanzibar, where the environment thrives in harmony with communities. Our commitment is to be a leading force in combating climate change, protecting natural resources, and fostering environmental stewardship. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and education, we aim to empower local communities, inspire environmental consciousness, and contribute to the global movement for a greener, healthier planet. Together

we will protect Zanzibar's unique ecosystems, mitigate the effects of climate change, and ensure a prosperous, sustainable future for generations to come.

our team

Our team is a passionate collective of environmental scientists, community organizers, educators, and policy advocates united by a shared commitment: to protect Zanzibar’s natural heritage, build climate resilience, and empower communities through sustainable solutions.

MEET THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION

Fatma Ali

Executive Director

A Zanzibar native and marine ecologist with 15+ years of experience in coastal conservation. Fatma leads the organization with vision and local insight, ensuring that every project aligns with both global climate goals and community needs.

Dr. James Mwakalinga

Climate Policy Lead

An environmental economist and policy advisor formerly with UNEP, James shapes our advocacy and works closely with local government to integrate climate-smart policy into Zanzibar’s development agenda.

Hajra Kombo

Community Engagement Manager

With a background in sociology and public health, Hajra builds deep-rooted partnerships with villages and schools, leading grassroots climate education and sustainable livelihood projects.

Omar Said

Renewable Energy Specialist

A solar engineer and green tech advocate, Omar drives our energy transition programs—installing solar infrastructure in rural clinics, schools, and fishing cooperatives.

Lucy Gardner

International Partnerships Coordinator

Based between Zanzibar and Europe, Lucy connects our local work with global funding, research, and innovation networks, opening doors to cross-border collaboration and climate finance.

Bakari Juma

Marine Conservation Officer

A dive-certified conservationist and coral reef monitor, Bakari leads our marine restoration and mangrove planting initiatives, working closely with local fishers and youth groups.

Why We're Different

  • Locally led, globally connected
  • Data-driven and community-powered
  • Focused on action, not just awareness

We believe Zanzibar can be a model for island resilience in the face of climate change—and our team is building that future, today.

What We Do

What we can do to preserve and restore our environment

At Climate Watch Zanzibar, we are a Zanzibar-based non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting our environment, building climate resilience, and empowering communities to become stewards of nature. Our work centers on innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions to the urgent challenges of environmental degradation and climate change in Zanzibar and the wider coastal region.

Environmental Conservation

We work tirelessly to protect Zanzibar’s unique ecosystems—from coral reefs and mangrove forests to endangered terrestrial habitats. Through science-based conservation projects, coastal cleanups, and biodiversity monitoring, we preserve natural resources for future generations.

Climate Action

Climate change is already affecting Zanzibar’s coastlines, fisheries, and water systems. Our programs support renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable tourism to reduce emissions and increase local resilience. We also engage in policy advocacy to influence environmental and climate-related decisions at the national and regional levels.

Community Empowerment

We place local communities at the heart of our mission. By offering environmental education, youth programs, and training for green entrepreneurship, we create jobs and unlock economic opportunities rooted in sustainability. Women and youth are especially empowered as change-makers and leaders.

Circular Economy & Innovation

From eco-bricking to waste-to-energy initiatives, we promote circular economy models that turn environmental challenges into income-generating opportunities. We partner with local innovators to develop scalable, green business solutions.

Partnerships & Research

We collaborate with universities, international NGOs, government bodies, and private-sector partners to amplify our impact. Our projects are grounded in data, research, and local knowledge, ensuring evidence-based action that works.

Together, we’re shaping a greener, fairer Zanzibar—one community, one reef, one tree at a time.