The Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) successfully hosted the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) Workshop from 11–13 February 2025 in Zanzibar, Tanzania, in collaboration with the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) and the UN Environment Programme. This workshop brought together key regional organisations to enhance coral reef monitoring, data standardisation, and reporting efforts. Read the summary report here.
The workshop opening welcomed remarks from Hon. Minister Shaaban Ali Othman, Minister of Blue Economy & Fisheries, alongside Dr Abdulaziz Alsuwailem, co-chair of the International Coral Reef Initiative, and Chief Conservation and Strategy Officer at the General Organisation for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Sea Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS).
Key Discussions and Outcomes
- Global & Regional Reporting: Participants reviewed the Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2025 report and the WIO regional chapter, assessing data collation progress and identifying gaps and new contributors, as well as the proposed writing process. The team also outlined a tentative roadmap for a dedicated WIO regional report in 2026.
- Strengthening Regional Coordination: The WIO Coral Reef Technical Working Group (CRTWG) discussed priority needs, a work plan, and updates to its Terms of Reference. Countries were encouraged to nominate national focal points to enhance coordination and engagement. To support capacity development, a dedicated capacity needs document will be developed, prioritising short-, medium-, and long-term actions.
- Capacity Building & Standardisation: Addressing regional capacity gaps, participants explored ways to support data integration, particularly through WCS’ MERMAID.
- Supporting National Efforts: Tanzania expressed interest in developing national monitoring guidelines aligned with its National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), collaborating with ICRI and CORDIO.
Regional Representation
The workshop saw participation from diverse organisations and countries, reflecting the commitment to strengthening coral reef monitoring in the WIO. Representatives attended from Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa, Madagascar, Comoros, Seychelles, French territories, and beyond, including ICRI, GCRMN, UNEP, WCS, and CORDIO (as the WIO regional coordinators). This broad collaboration underscores the importance of regional and global partnerships in safeguarding coral reef ecosystems.
This workshop marks a crucial step in the production of the Status of Coral Reefs of the World: 2025, strengthening regional collaboration and encouraging standardised coral reef monitoring across the WIO.
Read more about the upcoming global report here, as well as the Western Indian Ocean region here.
Cover photo: Gabriel Barathieu, Ocean Image Bank
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