Strengthening Capacity. Connecting Conservation Leaders.
Peer-to-Peer Learning for Ocean Conservation Impact
Join the network transforming marine protection through collaboration, learning, and real-world solutions across the Western Indian Ocean.
- Peer Learning & Exchanges
- Community & Collaboration
- Tools & Knowledge
- Events & Training
Countries Represented
The Western Indian Ocean Marine Protected Areas Network (WIOMPAN) brings together marine practitioners from over 10 countries to strengthen the protection and management of marine and coastal ecosystems.
We connect MPA managers, community leaders, scientists, and policymakers to share knowledge, build skills, and advance real-world solutions for ocean conservation.
From local learning exchanges to regional training, WIOMPAN is people-powered, practitioner-led, and impact-driven.
WIOMPAN strengthens the people behind marine protection.
765+ MPA's
Strengthening management plans for national parks, community MPAs, and co-managed sites
1250+Communities Served
Recognising and enhancing community-led LMMAs
10+Countries
Facilitating regional knowledge sharing on effective conservation strategies
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Peer to Peer
We facilitate real-world, practitioner-led learning through regional site visits, mentorship, and cross-country knowledge sharing.
We create space for marine professionals to connect, engage in discussions, and co-create solutions that work locally and regionally.
Training & Certification
We build capacity through structured learning pathways and certifications aligned with the WIO-COMPAS competency framework.
We provide access to practical resources, policy guides, and toolkits tailored for MPA managers, communities, and institutions.
Mentorship
We pair new and mid-career professionals with experienced MPA leaders through our Peer Mentorship Programme.
The WIOMPAN platform offers a growing collection of practical resources designed to help MPA professionals make informed decisions, plan effectively, and implement best practices.
Professional CertificationWIO-COMPAS: Recognising Excellence in Marine Protection
WIOMPAN supports marine professionals to build their careers and raise standards through the Western Indian Ocean Certification of Marine Protected Area Professionals (WIO-COMPAS).
Whether you’re a ranger, officer, or manager, WIO-COMPAS assesses and certifies your real-world knowledge, skills, and experience in MPA management.
Knowledge that empowers action
The WIOMPAN platform offers a growing collection of practical resources designed to help MPA professionals make informed decisions, plan effectively, and implement best practices.
From field-tested templates to global frameworks adapted for the Western Indian Ocean context, our resource hub is built by and for practitioners.
MPAs & OECMs in the Western Indian Ocean
WIOMPAN works with marine practitioners and institutions across the WIO to strengthen the planning, governance, and effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs).
Through capacity building, peer learning, and access to practical tools, we help ensure that conservation areas deliver measurable impact for biodiversity and coastal communities.
