The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is leading a mangrove restoration project in Kwale County, south of the Kenyan coast. This initiative aligns with Kenya Ports Authority’s vision of sustainable port operations and conservation of marine biodiversity. The Authority is also aligned with the national goal to plant 15 billion trees under target to combat deforestation, protect life at sea, and enhance climate action.
Mangroves play a critical role by helping to stabilize the coastline by reducing erosion, protecting marine ecosystems and fish breeding as well as providing shelter and habitat to a range of wildlife such as birds, fish, invertebrates, mammals and plants. The Pongwe-Kidimu Community Forest Association (CFA), a local community with a membership of 825 people, in collaboration with KPA is restoring 500 acres of degraded mangroves near Shimoni. This is one of the initiatives that KPA has prioritized through the Green Port policy, to ensure sustainable port operations and conservation of the environment and marine biodiversity.
According to Hamisi Mwamchanga, CFA leader, deforestation had caused severe flooding and fish decline, threatening livelihoods. Since KPA’s involvement in 2023, over 10,000 mangroves have been planted with an 80% survival rate, boosting resilience and biodiversity. The project also promotes Partnerships and collaboration between KPA, communities, and government agencies. As a result of the initiative, the community has been empowered economically, with KPA paying the community a stipend to ensure the survival of the mangroves. Similarly, the regrowth of mangrove has improved the population of prawns and lobsters further supporting men and women in fish /lobster business.
Despite progress, challenges like livestock encroachment and funding gaps remain. Strengthening forest protection policies and community engagement will be key to sustaining gains. With fish stocks rebounding with the population of prawns up 19% and lobsters at 18% the initiative demonstrates how ecosystem restoration advances the SDGs while securing livelihoods and a sustainable blue economy.