The story of Bugani Haji Hassan is one of transformation, resilience, and purpose. Once involved in cutting mangroves for survival, she is now a leading voice in protecting them—serving as the Chairperson of the Bungi Community Forest Management Area (CoFMA).
Years ago, Bugani’s relationship with mangroves was purely economic. Like many others in her community, she depended on cutting mangrove trees to produce firewood and charcoal, using the income to support her household and fund her children’s education.
That path, however, took a turning point.
“One day I was arrested and taken to the Forestry Department,” she recalls. “Instead of being punished, I was educated on conservation.”
That moment of intervention became the beginning of a profound shift. Rather than criminalizing her actions, authorities chose to inform and empower her. Soon after, she was selected to join—and eventually lead—the Shehia Mangrove Conservation Committee.
Over the past 13 years, Bugani has undergone a remarkable transformation. What began as a means of survival has evolved into a mission to protect the very ecosystems she once depended on for extraction.
“I came to understand the impact of mangrove destruction,” she explains. “That is when I decided to become a defender of the environment.”
Protecting What Sustains the Community
Today, Bugani leads a team committed to safeguarding mangroves through community-driven action. Their work includes restoring degraded areas by replanting mangroves, conducting regular patrols to deter illegal harvesting, and strengthening local monitoring systems to ensure sustainable use of forest resources.
Despite receiving no direct financial compensation for this work, her commitment remains unwavering.
“I do this for the well-being of current and future generations,” she says.
Beyond enforcement, Bugani has taken on the role of educator and advocate—particularly for women. She actively raises awareness about conservation practices and encourages women across Zanzibar, including in Pemba, to step forward as environmental stewards.
“Women and children are the most affected by environmental destruction,” she notes. “I am doing everything possible to ensure this knowledge reaches more women.”
Challenges on the Frontline
Bugani’s work is not without challenges. Illegal mangrove cutting still occurs, often in secrecy. Economic hardship continues to drive some community members to exploit natural resources for survival. At times, her enforcement efforts have led to tension within the community.
“Some people see me as an enemy,” she admits.
Yet these challenges have only strengthened her resolve. She has become more assertive in upholding conservation laws, even pursuing legal action against offenders when necessary.
“Life difficulties force some people to destroy mangroves,” she acknowledges. “But we must protect what protects us.”
Signs of Progress
Despite these obstacles, Bugani and her committee have seen meaningful progress. Awareness around mangrove conservation has increased, and fewer people are openly engaging in illegal cutting due to a growing understanding of the consequences.
Collaboration between neighboring communities has also improved, strengthening collective action for environmental protection.
However, Bugani emphasizes that more support is needed to sustain these gains. She highlights the importance of stronger partnerships with government authorities and calls for essential resources such as communication equipment and official identification to support
A Story of Transformation and Hope
Bugani’s journey is a powerful reminder that change is possible when people are given knowledge, opportunity, and support. Her story reflects how community-led conservation—and especially the empowerment of women—can play a critical role in building climate resilience.
From cutting mangroves to protecting them, Bugani Haji Hassan now stands as a guardian of her environment—and an inspiration for others to follow.
