Title: Evaluating socio-economic impacts and compliance effectiveness of voluntary octopus reef closures in Kilwa district, Tanzania.

This study examines the socio-economic impacts of octopus reef closures in coastal Tanzania, with a focus on community participation and compliance. The study was conducted through a comprehensive survey and descriptive analysis across four villages: Namakongoro, Somanga, Songomnara, and Songosongo in Kilwa District. The research investigates how voluntary, temporary octopus reef closures influence local socio‑economic conditions, the sustainability of octopus fisheries, and the effectiveness of community participation and compliance. It sought to bridge gaps in the existing literature regarding the socioeconomic impacts and compliance effectiveness of voluntary reef closures. The findings indicate high compliance and widespread support for reef closures among surveyed communities, with significant differences despite a lack of understanding of official voluntary octopus closure guidelines in some villages. The perceived common benefits across the villages include increased income, improved well-being, and strengthened social cohesion. Socio-economic analyses revealed significant impacts on octopus supply and demand, market prices, and overall livelihoods. However, challenges such as price and market fluctuations and resource limitations have been identified. Furthermore, community members overwhelmingly view reef closures as contributing to the sustainability of octopus fisheries in the region. Based on these findings, this study proposes policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of octopus reef closures and support sustainable fishery management. The proposed recommendations include continuing to provide capacity building on guidelines and resource support to enhance enforcement, support market resilience, foster community engagement, promote education and awareness, and implement adaptive management strategies. By implementing these recommendations in collaboration with stakeholders, policymakers can support sustainable octopus fishery management and contribute to marine conservation efforts in coastal communities.