MARCOP

(Marine Conservation Program) is a science-driven marine conservation program that strengthens marine conservation efforts in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) by helping countries to achieve global biodiversity goals.

Dani Escayola / Ocean Image Bank

Our Approach

MARCOP aims to ensure that marine conservation in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) is strategic, evidence-based, and results-driven. Using a Theory of Change (TOC) approach, we combine scientific research, policy integration, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building to achieve long-lasting conservation outcomes. Our efforts focus on strengthening governance, enhancing biodiversity protection, and promoting social equity, ensuring a sustainable future for the region’s marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Link to ToC.

Dani Escayola / Ocean Image Bank

Our Approach

MARCOP aims to ensure that marine conservation in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) is strategic, evidence-based, and results-driven. Using a Theory of Change (TOC) approach, we combine scientific research, policy integration, stakeholder engagement, and capacity building to achieve long-lasting conservation outcomes. Our efforts focus on strengthening governance, enhancing biodiversity protection, and promoting social equity, ensuring a sustainable future for the region’s marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Link to ToC.

Who Does MARCOP
Work With?

Governments, Indigenous Peoples & Local Communities (IPLCs), conservation agencies, and donors to drive real impact.

Who Does MARCOP
Work With?

Governments, Indigenous Peoples & Local Communities (IPLCs), conservation agencies, and donors to drive real impact.

Grant Thomas / Ocean Image Bank

What MARCOP Does

As a UN Ocean Decade Programme (https://oceandecade.org/actions/western-indian-ocean-marine-conservation-program-marcop/), MARCOP is committed to tackling Ocean Decade Challenges 2, 3, 4, and 9, driving science-based solutions to strengthen marine conservation in the Western Indian Ocean. Our work focuses on:

 

  • Improved Science-Policy Integration – Enhancing capacity and awareness of Target 3, leading to better-informed conservation actions.
  • Increased Marine Conservation Coverage & Connectivity – Expanding MPAs, LMMAs, and OECMs while improving ecosystem connectivity.
  • Strengthened Management Effectiveness & Equity – Supporting better management to boost biodiversity and socioeconomic benefits.
  • Recognition & Inclusion of IPLC Rights – Integrating Indigenous knowledge and rights into conservation strategies.
  • Effective Monitoring & Learning – Establishing harmonized MEL systems across WIO countries for continuous progress tracking and knowledge sharing.

Join MARCOP in shaping a resilient and thriving ocean for future generations!

Grant Thomas / Ocean Image Bank

What MARCOP Does

As a UN Ocean Decade Programme (https://oceandecade.org/actions/western-indian-ocean-marine-conservation-program-marcop/), MARCOP is committed to tackling Ocean Decade Challenges 2, 3, 4, and 9, driving science-based solutions to strengthen marine conservation in the Western Indian Ocean. Our work focuses on:

  • Improved Science-Policy Integration – Enhancing capacity and awareness of Target 3, leading to better-informed conservation actions.
  • Increased Marine Conservation Coverage & Connectivity – Expanding MPAs, LMMAs, and OECMs while improving ecosystem connectivity.
  • Strengthened Management Effectiveness & Equity – Supporting better management to boost biodiversity and socioeconomic benefits.
  • Recognition & Inclusion of IPLC Rights – Integrating Indigenous knowledge and rights into conservation strategies.
  • Effective Monitoring & Learning – Establishing harmonized MEL systems across WIO countries for continuous progress tracking and knowledge sharing.

Join MARCOP in shaping a resilient and thriving ocean for future generations!

THEMATIC AREAS

Ocean Decade Challenge 9: Skills, knowledge, technology and participation for all.

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HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

MARCOP needs partners to scale up conservation efforts across the WIO region.

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Social

Address

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

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