On October 9, 2024, CTC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF), local government of Liquiçá, and local community, successfully deployed zoning boundary markers in Samba Sembilan MPA. This milestone enhances MPA management, strengthens marine conservation efforts, and establishes a clearer framework for sustainable resource management.

Named after a local hero, the Samba Sembilan MPA was declared in 2023 and encompasses over 8,000 hectares of Liquiçá’s waters and marine ecosystems. The MPA includes four designated zones: the core zone, marine tourism zone, sustainable fisheries zone, and utilization zone. Since 2017, CTC and local partners have supported MALFF in establishing the Samba Sembilan MPA.

The deployment of these markers represents a significant step forward in supporting the MPA management. About 8 zoning markers are deployed in Samba Sembilan MPA. They play a crucial role in defining zones for sustainable use, helping to protect marine biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods. Previously, we also supported the deployment of zoning boundary markers in the Atauro Island MPA.

A ceremonial launch of the deployment markers will be held on November 22, 2024 to raise public awareness of the MPA zoning systems. With the successful deployment of boundary markers in the Atauro Island MPA and the Samba Sembilan MPA, CTC committed to collaboratively enhancing marine protection and promoting the sustainable use of marine resources in Timor-Leste’s waters.

Writers: Adam Putra, Marthen Welly
Photos: Egidio Boavida/CTC