Tanzania has a new marine reserve around Bawe Island, in the Zanzibar Channel, where fishing is prohibited and coral reefs are protected, and where local fishers are housed alongside five-star resort accommodation.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Zanzibar government and the Cocoon Collection – a family-founded luxury travel brand that for 40 years has specialised in unique natural locations and local culture. The establishment of the marine reserve means that an island that once belonged to the Eastern Telegraph Company and was an operation station for the underwater cable connecting Zanzibar to the Seychelles and Yemen, will now become a focus of efforts to ensure underwater biodiversity for future generations.
Firm commitment to sustainability
Located just 10km or a 15-minute boat ride from Zanzibar’s capital, Stone Town, the new Changuu-Bawe Marine Conservation Area encompasses the entire coast of Bawe Island. Describing the project’s realisation as “a dream”, it demonstrates the Cocoon Collection’s “firm commitment” to sustainability, according to Attilio Azzola, Founder and Corporate Sales Manager of The Cocoon Collection. By banning fishing, not only is marine life protected, but the natural balance of the ecosystem is promoted, allowing the barrier coral to regenerate and prosper, the company’s website explains.
What’s more, their commitment “goes far beyond the creation of the marine reserve,” Azzola points out. “For years we have been working on several fronts to reduce our impact and enhance the environment that surrounds us.” Those efforts include the installation of solar panels at Gold Zanzibar and, also on Bawe, the creation of the archipelago’s largest solar plant. And over on Prison Island, an “advanced water desalination system is in place, wastewaters are recycled and the century-old turtle population is protected.
Housing and docks for local fishers
Addressing concerns for local fishers around Bawe, modern and functional houses are being built on the island. The accommodation is allocated with private boat docks, allowing easy access to offshore areas where fishing is authorized, outside the protected area. “This model of coexistence between luxury tourism and sustainable development safeguards local traditions and contributes to the economic well-being of the community,” promotional materials argue.
Visitors meanwhile get over 30 hectares of unspoiled nature and exclusive accommodation in a choice of 70 luxury villas, each with its own private garden, swimming pool and butler service with personal chef. One, the 500m2 “Sultan Palace”, spans two levels and can welcome up to nine adult guests.
Sustainability trends
Visit Seychelles notes that “guests of the resort can easily explore the wonders of Zanzibar, such as the forest of Jozani, ancient Stone Town and Prison Island and sensory spice tours – all of which combine beautifully with the thrill of a safari in Tanzania.”
In line with the latest trends and advice for tapping into sustainable travel, the organisation’s advertising spotlights the way the resort might appeal to holidaymakers who want a luxury retreat while actively contributing to environmental protections and local quality of life.
