Mangrove restoration is one of the key environmental conservation initiatives undertaken by five self-help groups in Kwale County. These groups operate under Inuka Community Based Organisation (CBO), and their conservation activities are implemented through the Mwatsumbo Community Forest Association (CFA), which serves the Tsunza, Mwache, Mbunguni, and Bonje areas of Kwale County.
According to Wetlands International, Kenya has significant potential for mangrove restoration. More than 1,600 hectares of completely lost mangrove forests have been identified for restoration, while an additional 23,000 hectares of degraded mangroves can be restored to good ecological condition.
For the past two years, EPTF has supported these self-help groups through the Sustainable Livelihoods Program by providing training in entrepreneurship and business management, financial literacy, climate-smart agriculture, organic farming, sustainable food production, and environmental conservation. The program aims to improve household incomes, strengthen resilience to climate change, promote environmental conservation, and enhance long-term economic sustainability.
The program recognises that healthy ecosystems and sustainable livelihoods go hand in hand. Equipping community members with practical business and agricultural skills helps diversify household incomes while reducing pressure on natural resources such as mangrove forests.
As a result, the groups are gaining more than just knowledge of mangrove restoration. Members are applying the skills they have acquired to strengthen their livelihoods, increase household incomes, and better provide for their families, contributing to efforts to address the high poverty levels in Kwale County while supporting the long-term conservation of the region’s mangrove ecosystems.
