Expanding Horizons: MARRS Training with New Partners in Tanzania

In early November 2025, two members of the Mars Sustainable Solutions team embarked on a journey to Zanzibar in Tanzania, to train new partner, Ocean Without Borders, in the Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System (MARRS) method for coral reef restoration. This partnership marked a significant step forward in our mission to restore and protect coral reefs across the Western Indian Ocean. This training trip was not just about coral restoration, it was about building new partnerships, sharing knowledge, and empowering local communities to become stewards of their precious marine ecosystems. 

The trip was centered around Mnemba Island, a pristine marine protected area off the coast of Zanzibar, home to luxury eco-tourism resort, &Beyond. The Mnemba House reef sits within the Mnemba Island Marine Special Area (MIMSA - 2023) which also sits within a wider protected area the Mnemba Island Marine Conservation Area (MIMCA - 2005). The difference being that the special area limits the amount of tourist boats allowed inside to 8 boats per day and only 2 boats at a time. 

Here, our team joined forces with Ocean Without Borders and their dedicated group of local conservationists to lay the groundwork for a new chapter in coral restoration. 

Our primary goal was to build local capacity through comprehensive restoration training. Over the course of the week, we worked closely with a team of ten passionate individuals, to transfer vital skills in coral restoration techniques, reef star construction, and reef monitoring. 

The training combined both classroom learning and hands-on fieldwork. Online lectures delivered prior to and during the trip covered essential topics such as conservation strategies, site selection, reef star production, and the social and governmental aspects of marine restoration. These sessions prepared the team for the practical challenges they would face underwater. 

On-site, the team installed MARRS 100 Reef Stars, at Mnemba House Reef. This effort was a milestone, as it marked the first deployment of reef stars in this protected area. The installation process involved careful site selection, coral collection from nurseries, and meticulous attachment of coral fragments to the reef stars. Our divers worked tirelessly over four days, overcoming challenges such as variable underwater conditions and ensuring the structural integrity of the reef stars. 

Throughout the week, we also focused on community integration and knowledge exchange. Engaging with local stakeholders was crucial to ensure that restoration efforts align with the needs and realities of those who depend on the ocean. The training emphasised sustainable practices, including responsible coral sourcing and minimising environmental impact. 

The enthusiasm and commitment of our Tanzanian partners was inspiring, and the protected status of Mnemba Island offers a promising environment for coral recovery. Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibilities this partnership opens up. Continued reef star installations, enhanced monitoring, and community engagement will be key to building resilient coral ecosystems in the region.  

This training trip to Tanzania exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and innovation that drives Ocean Without Borders. By working hand in hand with new partners, we are not only restoring coral reefs but also nurturing a network of ocean guardians dedicated to safeguarding our blue planet.