About us

8+

Years of experience

About Us

Company Overview

At WILD EDEN, we are a passionate, action-driven non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting the unique natural heritage of Zanzibar—for the people of today and generations to come. Rooted in the values of sustainability, equity, and community empowerment, we are leading the charge against climate change and environmental degradation across the region.

Our mission is clear: to safeguard, restore, and responsibly manage Zanzibar’s delicate ecosystems—from vibrant mangrove forests and fragile coral reefs to endangered wildlife and the coastal communities that depend on them. As the climate crisis accelerates, bringing rising seas, habitat destruction, and extreme weather, our work becomes ever more urgent—and essential.

We work hand-in-hand with local communities, government agencies, international environmental networks, and private sector partners to develop and deliver science-driven, high-impact solutions. From renewable energy initiatives and coastal defense projects to environmental education and youth-led climate advocacy, we’re building a future where Zanzibar thrives in balance with its environment.

At WILD EDEN, we see environmental stewardship not as a burden, but as a powerful opportunity—to create green jobs, spark sustainable tourism, and fuel inclusive economic growth across the islands. Our vision is bold yet simple: a resilient, sustainable Zanzibar where nature and people flourish together.

Arlene McCoy

CEO & founder

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Who We Are

Building a Sustainable Future with Innovation

At WILD EDEN, we are a passionate, grassroots-driven non-governmental organization based in the heart of Zanzibar, dedicated to protecting our environment, fighting climate change, and building a sustainable future for our islands and communities. Founded on the belief that local action creates global impact, our mission is to empower Zanzibaris—especially youth and coastal communities—to become stewards of their natural heritage.

As one of the leading environmental NGOs in Zanzibar, we work at the intersection of climate resilience, marine conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental education. From restoring degraded mangroves and coral reefs to promoting eco-friendly community enterprises and advocating for bold climate policies, our initiatives are rooted in science, equity, and traditional knowledge.

We believe that tackling climate change isn't just about policies—it's about people. That's why we focus on inclusive, community-led programs that create green jobs, protect biodiversity, and strengthen our island’s resilience to rising sea levels, storms, and environmental degradation.

With strategic partnerships locally and internationally, we are turning environmental challenges into opportunities—cultivating a Zanzibar that thrives economically, socially, and ecologically.

Climate Action & Policy

We advocate for ambitious climate policies at local, national, and international levels. Our research-backed campaigns aim to accelerate the transition to renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Ecosystem Protection

From reforestation projects to marine conservation, we work to preserve the Earth's most vulnerable ecosystems—empowering local communities as stewards of the land.

Environmental Education

We equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools to lead climate solutions through school programs, workshops, and youth-led initiatives.

Sustainable Innovation

Partnering with scientists, entrepreneurs, and governments, we scale nature-based solutions and green technologies that benefit both people and the planet.

Join us. Together, we can protect Zanzibar’s future—one reef, one forest, one community at a time.

At WILD EDEN, we are dedicated to safeguarding the rich natural heritage of Zanzibar while confronting the urgent challenges of climate change. Our mission is to drive sustainable, inclusive solutions that restore ecosystems, empower communities, and spark innovation in environmental stewardship.From revitalizing marine and terrestrial biodiversity to expanding access to renewable energy, we work at the intersection of conservation and community development—championing eco-friendly livelihoods that support both people and the planet.

As a forward-thinking NGO, we strive to position Zanzibar as a beacon of climate resilience and green innovation for East Africa and the world.

At WILD EDEN, we envision a future where Zanzibar flourishes sustainably, with nature and communities coexisting in perfect harmony. We are dedicated to becoming a pioneering force in the fight against climate change, safeguarding our precious natural resources, and promoting responsible environmental stewardship. Through groundbreaking initiatives, strategic partnerships, and impactful education, we strive to empower local communities, inspire a deep sense of environmental responsibility, and contribute to the global movement for a greener, healthier planet.

Together, we will protect Zanzibar's irreplaceable ecosystems, mitigate the effects of climate change, and pave the way for a prosperous, sustainable future for generations to come.

Our Value is to create meaningful connections through the power of music. By fostering creativity, passion, and innovation, we aim to deliver unforgettable musical experiences that resonate with hearts and inspire souls.

Innovating for a Greener Tomorrow
Eco-Friendly Innovation at Its Best
Green Tech for a Better World
Innovation Meets Sustainability

our team

Champions of Sustainability in Zanzibar

At the heart of our mission lies a passionate and diverse collective—environmental scientists, community organizers, educators, and policy advocates—united by a shared commitment to protect Zanzibar’s natural heritage, build climate resilience, and empower local communities through sustainable solutions.

Meet the People Behind the Mission

Dr. James Mwakalinga

Climate Policy Lead

A former UNEP policy advisor and environmental economist, James steers our advocacy work. He partners with government leaders to embed climate-smart strategies into Zanzibar’s development agenda.

Fatma Ali

Executive Director

A proud Zanzibari and seasoned marine ecologist with over 15 years in coastal conservation, Fatma brings deep local knowledge and strategic vision. She ensures every initiative reflects both global climate priorities and the real needs of our island communities.

Hajra Kombo

Community Engagement Manager

With a strong foundation in sociology and public health, Hajra nurtures trusted relationships with villages and schools. She leads our grassroots efforts in climate education and sustainable livelihoods.

Lucy Gardner

International Partnerships Coordinator

Bridging Zanzibar with global networks, Lucy forges vital partnerships in research, funding, and innovation—amplifying our impact through cross-border collaboration and climate finance.

Bakari Juma

Marine Conservation Officer

A certified diver and expert in coral reef restoration, Bakari leads marine protection projects and mangrove reforestation, working side by side with local fishers and youth groups.

Omar Said

Renewable Energy Specialist

A solar energy engineer and champion of green technology, Omar spearheads our clean energy programs—bringing solar power to off-grid clinics, schools, and fishing cooperatives across the islands.

What Sets Us Apart

Locally led, globally connected
Driven by data, powered by community
Committed to impact, not just awareness

We believe Zanzibar can be a global model for island resilience—and our team is building that future, today.

What We Do

What we can do to preserve and restore our environment

At WILD EDEN, we are a Zanzibar-based non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting our environment, building climate resilience, and empowering communities to become stewards of nature. Our work centers on innovative, sustainable, and community-driven solutions to the urgent challenges of environmental degradation and climate change in Zanzibar and the wider coastal region.

Environmental Conservation

We work tirelessly to protect Zanzibar’s unique ecosystems—from coral reefs and mangrove forests to endangered terrestrial habitats. Through science-based conservation projects, coastal cleanups, and biodiversity monitoring, we preserve natural resources for future generations.

Climate Action

Climate change is already affecting Zanzibar’s coastlines, fisheries, and water systems. Our programs support renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable tourism to reduce emissions and increase local resilience. We also engage in policy advocacy to influence environmental and climate-related decisions at the national and regional levels.

Community Empowerment

We place local communities at the heart of our mission. By offering environmental education, youth programs, and training for green entrepreneurship, we create jobs and unlock economic opportunities rooted in sustainability. Women and youth are especially empowered as change-makers and leaders.

Circular Economy & Innovation

From eco-bricking to waste-to-energy initiatives, we promote circular economy models that turn environmental challenges into income-generating opportunities. We partner with local innovators to develop scalable, green business solutions.

Partnerships & Research

We collaborate with universities, international NGOs, government bodies, and private-sector partners to amplify our impact. Our projects are grounded in data, research, and local knowledge, ensuring evidence-based action that works.

Together, we’re shaping a greener, fairer Zanzibar—one community, one reef, one tree at a time.