On March 23, 2025, CTC and local partners successfully conducted a socialization for the zoning systems in the Atauro  Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Makili Village.   

The event was attended by  key stakeholders including a representative from President Authority Administrative of Atauro, Mr. Vicente, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF) representative, Mr. Constancio, along with conservation partners, Roman Luan, the Atauro MPA Management Unit, and 28 members of the Makili Village Council. 

The session covered several important topics, including a presentation delivered by CTC on Tara Bandu—a customary law that manages natural resources—MPA regulations, and zoning within the Atauro MPA, explaining the significance of local customary laws in marine conservation. MALFF staff then led a discussion on conservation area development policies, highlighting the political framework and strategic plans for sustainable management.

Additionally, Mr. Constancio, supported by Roman Luan and the Atauro MPA Management Unit, conducted a session on the Tara Bandu of the Makili Tribe and its benefits, emphasizing the role of traditional knowledge in protecting marine resources. The Makili Village Council agreed to conduct the next phase of socialization in four sub-villages on April 9-10, 2025. This follow-up aims to further engage local communities in understanding and supporting the MPA zoning regulations.

This zoning system helps manage and protect natural resources, including fish populations and critical habitats by regulating activities within the protected area. This zoning system also supports the effective management of the MPA by ensuring sustainable use of marine resources while conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem balance.

The successful meeting reflects the strong collaboration among stakeholders in ensuring the sustainability of marine resources through traditional and regulatory approaches.

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

Photos: Mike Veitch, Egidio Boavida/CTC