Mangrove forests are vital ecosystems that provide critical services, including coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and support for fisheries. However, extensive degradation due to unsustainable practices and climate change has left many mangrove areas in urgent need of restoration. In Kilifi County, Kenya, community-driven initiatives are addressing these challenges by integrating ecological restoration with sustainable development goals.
The aim of this project is to restore degraded mangrove ecosystems through participatory approaches that enhance biodiversity, sequester carbon, and support local livelihoods. Specific goals include: 1. Rehabilitating 600 hectares of degraded mangrove forest using best practices, 2. Empowering local women and youth through Capacity-Building workshops and economic opportunities in mangrove-based aquaculture, and 3. Promoting community awareness about the ecological and economic importance of mangroves.
We have successfully replanted 5 hectares of mangrove using native species selected for site-specific conditions, trained 200 community members in sustainable aquaculture and mangrove restoration techniques, and established partnerships with local schools to introduce environmental education programs, fostering a conservation ethos among youth.
Future work includes expanding the mangrove restoration efforts to achieve the 600-hectares target, scaling up mangrove-based aquaculture projects, and developing community-driven monitoring systems to ensure long-term sustainability. We plan to follow the "Best Practice Guidelines for Mangrove Restoration" recently published by the Mangrove Alliance1 and educate local communities using the 4-part animation video series on mangrove restoration prepared by Wetlands International.2
References
1 Best Practice Guidelines for Mangrove Restoration. 2024. The Blue Carbon Initiative. Global Mangrove Alliance. https://www.mangrovealliance.org/best-practice-guidelines-for-mangrove-restoration/.
2 Mangrove Restoration, a 4-part animation video prepared by Wetlands International, a member of the Global Mangrove Alliance.
Acknowledgments
We extend our gratitude to FUCOBI Foundation of Ecuador, local stakeholders, and international partners (Grow with US) for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible.