DILI, 30 september 2024 (TATOLI) – In a significant move towards community-led marine management, the Ilicnamo community in Ataúro, Timor-Leste, has declared a Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), revitalising the traditional practice of Tara Bandu. This initiative, facilitated by Blue Ventures Timor-Leste, stems from extensive consultations with local leaders, fishers, and government officials, aiming to protect marine resources and sustain local livelihoods.
The September 25, 2024 launch drew hundreds of Ilicnamo community members to Biqueli village, northeast of Ataúro. Inaugurated by representatives from the Director General of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Marine Resources, the Director General of Environment, the President of the Administrative Authority of Ataúro, and the Country Director of Blue Ventures Timor-Leste, it included all elements of the community, including women and youth, showcasing a shared commitment to sustainable marine management.
Ataúro Island, already designated as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) and home to several LMMAs, is witnessing renewed interest in sustainable fishing practices within Biqueli village. This enthusiasm was sparked by a snorkeling session in the Beloi Village during the Safety at Sea training two years ago and an LMMA Learning Exchange held last year, both organised by Blue Ventures Timor-Leste. These inspired fishers in Biqueli, including Ilicnamo, to discuss marine conservation with their peers.
Over time, Biqueli fishers have built a strong reputation for their exceptional spearfishing and diving skills. At first, they resisted the idea of a Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), fearing it would limit their fishing access and threaten their livelihoods. However, as local fish habitats declined due to unsustainable practices, their catch rates dropped, leading them to explore healthier fishing grounds in distant coastal waters across Timor-Leste.
Celebrating the Tara Bandu: A New LMMA in Ilicnamo
The newly declared LMMA, rooted in the local Tara Bandu customary law, encompasses 1.1 square kilometres of the marine area along the coast from Ano Ai’i Ina to Uhu Rua, including a lagoon. The area will be managed by the LMMA Structure, which comprises local fishers and gleaners, members of Grupu Monitorizasaun Peskas, and spiritual leaders.
- Five-Year Closure: A 1-kilometre stretch from the coast will be off-limits to all fishing activities for five years, though seaweed farming in the area is still permitted.
- Monitoring and governance: Grupu Monitorizasaun Peskas will continue collecting fisheries data to assess the closure’s impact, collaborating with the LMMA structure to make evidence-based decisions for community-based fisheries management.
- Scientific Research and Tourism: While fishing is prohibited in the Tara Bandu area, it remains open to scientific research. Marine tourism activities like diving and snorkeling in the lagoon are allowed for a fee of USD2 per person per hour.
“The launch of the LMMA today, alongside the Ilicnamo community, not only empowers local fishers but also plays a crucial role in preserving our marine ecosystem. Ataúro boasts some of the most diverse coral reefs in the world,” said Lino de Jesus Martins, Representative of the Director General of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Marine Resources, Timor-Leste.
Daniel Martins, Chief of Biqueli Village, acknowledged the initial hesitancy among fishers regarding the LMMA. However, after witnessing the benefits during the exchange programme and observing transformations in other communities, they have understood its importance. “Now, they recognise that by protecting our waters, we can ensure a sustainable fish supply for our children while preserving our marine treasures,” he added.
Blue Ventures facilitated community engagement through the LMMA community consultation process, ensuring local voices were heard when shaping the Tara Bandu. This initiative is part of the project of Improving Fisher Livelihoods and Protecting Marine Biodiversity in Timor-Leste, funded by the UK Government through the Darwin Initiative.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
