World's First Certification for MPA Professionals is a Success

Certifications have been awarded to marine protected area (MPA) professionals in five countries across the Western Indian Ocean region. This is the first certification programme in the world for MPA professionals that establishes performance standards and recognizes those professionals who have proven their skills on the job to provide effective management of MPAs.

The first certification event was attended by eleven professionals from Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa and Tanzania. The certification process included case studies, presentations, field visits and interviews with the assessors. Much of the activities took place during an eight-day assessment and professional development event in Malindi, Kenya 14-21 August. Candidates received their official results, transcripts and MPA PRO materials.

Visit the WIO-COMPAS website in June to see profiles of the certified professionals and dates for 2009 events.