Illegal dynamite fishing had decimated Mtwara's coral reefs for years, destroying marine ecosystems and undermining the livelihoods of small-scale fishers.
From reporting to enforcement
In collaboration with TMF's legal desk, Pangani FM launched an eight-week investigative campaign. The station combined field reporting, marine biology expertise and live call-in panels to surface evidence and build public pressure for accountability.
"The radio didn't just report our crisis; it gave us the platform to solve it ourselves." — Fisheries Inspector, Municipal Regulator
Concrete policy impact
Sustained public pressure pushed local municipal councils to audit fisheries enforcement. The result: three community-led marine patrols were established and blast fishing effectively ceased across the district.
The campaign shows how community media can move beyond awareness to deliver tangible environmental and governance outcomes.
