Written by Shamim Wasii Nyanda - Social Scientist and Environmental Activist, Founder of Doors of Hope Foundation, SUNWAVE Limited, and Lead at Tanzania Ocean Climate Innovation Hub.
In the face of mounting environmental challenges, I have come to realize how important the role of women is in driving sustainable solutions and protecting our ocean ecosystems. For me, the journey of being an environmental activist turned Ocean Climate activist has been one of immense dedication and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the blue heart of our planet. As someone who has grown up witnessing the intricate relationship between coastal communities and the ocean, I have dedicated my life to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation, particularly through innovative solutions. A journey inspired and supported by great friends.
The beginning of a passionate journey
My story begins 5 years ago, along the Tanzanian coastline, where I was surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the ocean and its ecosystems. The sea provided food, livelihoods, and cultural identity for my community. However, beneath this beauty lay the growing scars of climate change, pollution, and overexploitation. Rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and loss of biodiversity were not distant issues; they were realities affecting the lives of those I grew up with.
These early experiences instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to act. I realized that the ocean is not just a resource—it is a lifeline. It nurtures biodiversity, regulates the climate, and sustains millions of people, especially in coastal regions. Witnessing these challenges firsthand fueled my passion for ocean advocacy and shaped my journey into becoming a leader in ocean climate action.
Challenges as a woman in ocean conservation
Being a woman in a male-dominated field like ocean conservation and climate science comes with its set of challenges. I have often found myself in spaces where my voice had to be amplified twice as loud to be heard. There were moments when I felt underestimated, questioned, or excluded, simply because of my gender and my age.
The systemic barriers that women face in accessing resources, funding, and opportunities to scale their initiatives is a painful reality. For instance, advocating for emerging technologies such mCDR can always be met with skepticism, not only because it is an emerging concept but simply because it is being championed by a young woman. However, these challenges have only strengthened my will to continue breaking barriers and creating pathways for other women in the blue space.
My progress through perseverance
Through perseverance, my journey has been one of significant gains and achievements. Leading the Tanzania Ocean Climate Innovation Hub, endorsed by the UN Ocean Decade under the GEOS (Global Ecosystem for Ocean Solutions) program under Ocean Visions, which has been a platform for driving meaningful impact. Through the Hub, I have worked on initiatives that promote ocean literacy, empower coastal communities, and introduce innovative technologies to address the climate crisis.
One of my proudest achievements has been the implementation of blue carbon restoration projects, including mangrove reforestation, seagrass restoration and Ocean Farming (Seaweed planting, Sea Cucumber farming) and cold storage through a company i founded called SUNWAVE Limited, which is aimed at addressing post-harvest losses among small-scale fishers and sellers by selling them ice as a service provided through our Solar-powered ice machines. These initiatives have not only enhanced biodiversity but have also provided sustainable livelihoods for local communities. Mangrove restoration, for instance, has proven to be an effective nature-based solution for carbon sequestration and coastal resilience.
Another milestone has been the promotion and awareness creation around Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR) in Africa. A cutting-edge technology, mCDR has the potential to address excess carbon dioxide in our ocean and combat acidification. Championing this technology in Africa requires extensive advocacy, research, awareness, collaboration with scientists, and raising awareness about its potential benefits and risks. While still in its early stages and new, mCDR holds promise for transforming ocean conservation efforts and building resilience against climate change.
Additionally, my advocacy work has taken me to international platforms, including COP27 &COY17, COP28 & COY18, and the recent COP29. Representing Tanzanian female youth and coastal communities at these high-level climate negotiations has allowed me to amplify the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis. It has also given me the opportunity to engage with global leaders and push for policies that prioritize ocean health and climate resilience.
Promoting Ocean Literacy and community empowerment
Ocean literacy has been a cornerstone of my activism. I strongly believe that education is the foundation of meaningful change. Through the Tanzania Ocean Climate Innovation Hub, we have conducted ocean literacy workshops in schools and communities, ensuring that young people understand the critical role of the ocean in combating climate change. These workshops not only educate but also inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.
Empowering women and youth has been another key focus of my work. Coastal women, in particular, are often the unsung heroes of ocean conservation, yet they remain underrepresented in decision-making processes. By providing training in sustainable aquaculture, mangrove beekeeping, and other blue economy activities, we are creating opportunities for women to take leadership roles in protecting marine ecosystems.
The Role of Innovation: Introducing mCDR.
Marine Carbon Dioxide Removal (mCDR) on the other hand is a transformative solution that would address one of the root causes of ocean degradation—excess carbon dioxide. Through techniques such as ocean alkalinity enhancement and macroalgae cultivation, mCDR offers a way to restore the ocean’s health while mitigating climate change.
As a proponent of mCDR, my role is and has been to raise awareness about its potential, advocate for research, demonstration and development, and build collaborations with scientists, policymakers, and communities. While mCDR is still in its early wave especially for Africa, I firmly believe that Africa must be part of these global Ocean conservation efforts. We cannot afford to be left behind in developing and benefiting from technologies that address the climate crisis.
The Power of Collaboration.
Collaboration has been a guiding principle in my work. None of these achievements would have been possible without the support of partners, including Ocean Visions, the University of Dar es Salaam, and local coastal community groups. By bringing together diverse stakeholders—from scientists to policymakers and local leaders—we can co-create solutions that are innovative, inclusive, and sustainable.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future.
As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with hope and determination for the future. My vision is to see a world where ocean ecosystems are thriving, coastal communities are transformed, and innovative solutions are fully integrated into global climate strategies.
I also envision a future where more women and youth take leadership roles in ocean conservation. By breaking down barriers and creating opportunities, I believe we can build a more inclusive and equitable blue economy that benefits everyone.
However, the emotional toll of being an activist in this space cannot be understated. Fighting for ocean conservation means confronting the harsh realities of climate change daily. It means witnessing the loss of marine biodiversity, hearing the struggles of coastal communities, and often feeling the weight of systemic inaction. These pains have turned into a driving force for change, pushing me to advocate even harder for the solutions we so urgently need.
Protecting our ocean ecosystems is not just a job—it is a calling. As a young woman in this space, I am proud to be part of a global movement that is shaping the future of our Ocean. While the journey has been challenging, it has also been deeply rewarding.
Through my work as an Ocean Climate activist, I have learned that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. By combining science, innovation, and community empowerment, we can turn the tide on climate change and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Comments