How Mangrove Conservation Is Transforming Lives in Marereni
In Marereni, a coastal region of Kenya long shaped by drought, deforestation, and economic hardship, mangrove restoration is offering more than environmental renewal — it’s becoming a catalyst for community resilience and opportunity.
A recent community household survey conducted by COBEC and Seatrees confirms what locals have already felt on the ground: mangrove restoration is improving lives.
Since 2022, more than 1 million mangrove trees have been planted across degraded coastal zones, restoring vital habitat for fisheries, sea turtles, and shoreline stability. But the greatest success may be what’s happening above the soil. Restoration activities have created over 600 jobs, including roles for mangrove planters, nursery managers, and community scouts. These jobs are not just temporary gigs — they are lifelines, especially in the wake of the economic downturn brought on by COVID-19.
In fact, 90% of planters surveyed said their quality of life had improved due to restoration efforts. Over 75% reported better food security and healthcare access, while more than half now earn over 25% of their household income through activities directly tied to mangrove ecosystems.
The restoration project also invests in long-term resilience. Through the TREEDUCATION Fund, students from low-income households receive scholarships in exchange for planting and maintaining tree plots — a unique model that links education, environmental stewardship, and household support.
Communities are also observing tangible ecosystem improvements: better fish catches, increased forest cover, and a resurgence of biodiversity. These environmental changes are not only visible — they are valued. More than 90% of residents surveyed said they support ongoing patrols, restoration, and education efforts to safeguard mangroves.
Still, challenges remain. Poverty, food insecurity, and lack of equipment hinder broader participation. But the overwhelming community support signals a clear opportunity: to continue building a model where conservation and community development go hand in hand.
In Marereni, mangrove restoration isn’t just protecting nature — it’s helping communities build a better future from the roots up.
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