Tackling the complex, interconnected issues our oceans face requires novel perspectives, integrated approaches and new partnerships that transcend disciplines and sectors. This is at the core of Oceans Without Borders, an innovative inter-sectoral partnership between Wild Impact, a not-for-profit community development organisation, and &Beyond, a conservation-focussed travel company with luxury lodges within wilderness areas across much of southern and east Africa.
Working closely with local communities, research institutions, not-for-profits, government agencies and the private sector, the partnership aims to positively influence marine conservation and community development within the seascapes in which &Beyond’s two island lodge sites are located, linking over 2000 kilometres of African coastline.
The overarching goal of the OWB Strategic Framework is to support and enable the effective conservation of each seascape and the sustainable development of its associated island and coastal communities. The regional seascapes or conservation clusters include – Mnemba Island in the Northern Unguja region (Tanzania) and Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelgo/Inhambane Seascape (Mozambique). With long term commitment to these sites and well established and close working relationships with local communities, the programme is well positioned to positively influence marine seascapes in eastern Africa and the local communities that depend on them.