Assessing the Impact of Marine Traffic on Mangrove Ecosystems in Zanzibar

This study assessed the impact of marine traffic on mangrove ecosystems in Zanzibar focusing on evaluating marine traffic management practices, identifying ecological challenges and proposing the sustainable strategies for mitigation. A mixed -methods design was employed collecting primary data from 80 respondents using questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions and supplemented by secondary data from government reports and scientific literature. Data analysis combined descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS Version 26 and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Findings revealed that 56.2% of respondents perceived current management practices as ineffective in safeguarding mangroves. Key ecological challenges included reduced mangrove coverage (61.3%), increased water pollution (56.3%) and declining marine biodiversity (42.5%). Thematic insights identified oil spills, dredging and anchor damage as primary drivers of degradation. A significant association was found between regulation awareness and reporting of ecological harm (χ² = 9.26, df = 3, p = 0.026). The study recommends stronger regulatory enforcement, environmental education and community based restoration initiatives. These measures are crucial to balance marine economic activities with mangrove conservation for sustainable coastal development