The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has intensified conservation and regulatory measures in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), a globally significant refuge for the endangered Whale Shark, amid rising concerns over vessel traffic and a surge in tourist-related incidents, Minister Thoriq Ibrahim confirmed.
In an interview with PSM News' 'Hafuthaa 104' programme, marking the second anniversary of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration, Minister Thoriq underscored that safeguarding designated conservation sites, particularly SAMPA, remains a central priority for the ministry.
The South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area is distinguished by its ecological dynamics. The convergence of reefs and currents produces dense plankton blooms, drawing Whale Sharks, known locally as Fihurihi, to feed and regulate body temperature throughout the year. This predictable presence has made SAMPA a focal point for international visitors, who arrive daily to snorkel and dive alongside the species.
In February, the ministry mandated that tourists may only enter SAMPA under the supervision of certified guides holding the official SAMPA Guide Certificate.
Officials report substantial progress in enforcing the measure through a structured training and certification programme. "I would like to highlight that a Ranger Service has been initiated in the SAMPA region, the South Ari Atoll Marine Protected Area, because providing safety and protection to the tourists visiting that area is of paramount importance," Minister Thoriq said.
He added: "As training the individuals who guide tourists to that location is crucial, over 530 parties have participated and been trained thus far, with 440 individuals successfully passing the SAMPA Guide examination."
The ministry confirmed that the SAMPA Ranger Service has already logged approximately 121 hours of patrol activity this year. "This represents a significant undertaking, and with the Rangers stationed in the area, approximately 121 hours of patrol have already been conducted this year," Minister Thoriq noted.
SAMPA’s popularity has been accompanied by serious risks. Recent years have seen several tragic incidents involving tourists within the zone. More troubling still, ministry data show that the majority of resident whale sharks have sustained injuries from vessel contact. Approximately 70 percent of the population bears scars from boat propellers, underscoring the dangers posed by unregulated or poorly managed marine traffic.
To mitigate these risks, the Environment Ministry has instituted mandatory regulations under its guiding plan. These rules apply to all stakeholders operating within the protected zone, including tourists entering the water to observe whale sharks, certified SAMPA Guides, vessel captains, and crew members.