The Maoma Tribal Centre Association in the Anoano area of West Kwaio Constituency, Malaita Province, is strengthening its commitment to marine conservation as part of its broader effort to promote cultural tourism and protect local resources.
In front of the Maoma Tribal Centre seaside area, the Association has established a conservation zone to prevent overfishing and protect marine life.
The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with WorldFish and has continued to operate as part of the community’s resource management plan.
Chairman of the Maoma Tribal Centre Association, Aloysius Odofia, said the community has taken strong steps to ensure that the marine environment around the centre remains healthy and sustainable.
“We keep conserving our resources here such as fish, shells and many other marine species,” Odofia explained.
“These things are very important not only for our people but also for visitors who come to see the beauty of our environment.”
According to Odofia, fishing activities have been restricted in the conservation area to allow marine resources to recover and thrive. Community members have agreed to stop overfishing in the waters surrounding the centre to ensure that future generations can benefit from these natural resources.
The conservation effort is also closely linked to the Association’s tourism development plans. Leaders believe that protecting the marine ecosystem will make the area more attractive to visitors interested in experiencing nature, culture and traditional lifestyles.
“The conservation work is very important because when tourists visit our place, they want to see healthy coral reefs, fish and other marine life,” Odofia said.
The Maoma Tribal Centre Association is a legally registered body under tourism development and primarily focuses on promoting tourism projects within the community. However, Odofia noted that the Association can also apply for support in other sectors including agriculture and fisheries to help strengthen local livelihoods.
Future plans include improving visitor facilities, including accommodation for tourists who may wish to stay longer and explore the area. The community is also considering building simple seaside accommodation where visitors can enjoy views of the ocean and nearby coral reefs.
Traditional canoe paddling is another activity the Association hopes to promote, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding mangroves and coastal waters while experiencing the community’s unique cultural setting.
Community leaders say that the vision for Maoma Tribal Centre is built on the strong connection between culture and conservation.
By protecting the environment and maintaining traditional practices, the Association hopes to create a sustainable tourism destination that benefits both the local community and visitors who come to experience the natural beauty of West Kwaio.
By Lesley Foinagwa
Buma, West Kwaio
