Marine Reserves encompass distinct areas within the ocean, rivers, natural ponds, and lakes that have been legally designated to establish robust management measures aimed at conserving, preserving, and restoring biodiversity and ecological systems. These measures ensure the sustainable utilization of marine resources, including fish, coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass.

Marine conservation began in the 1970s through the Fisheries Act No. 6 of 1970 and its management
 was under the Department of Fisheries. In 1994, the Government through Parliament enacted the 
Marine Reserves and Special Areas Act No. 29 of 1994 (reference 2009 cap 146) which established 
the Marine Reserves and Special Areas Unit to establish, manage, monitor and develop marine reserves.

Kaimu Davis E. Mpotwa

Meneja