Guardians of the Coast: The Kenya Coastal Conservation Initiative’s Journey

Nestled along Kenya’s breathtaking coastline, Mombasa Marine Park and Reserve stands as a beacon of biodiversity. THE marine park was developed in order to prevent the stripping of coral and extraction of fish, and to support local hoteliers from losing income from potential visitor decrease due to the negative impacts on the coral reef ecosystem (Kaggikah, 2015)Its turquoise waters teem with marine life, from vibrant coral reefs to seagrass meadows that provide sanctuary for countless species. Yet, like many coastal ecosystems worldwide, this marine haven faces mounting threats—from habitat destruction and plastic pollution to the decline of keystone species like sea turtles. Recognizing the urgent need to protect this fragile environment, the Naturehub Collective embarked on a mission to restore, rejuvenate, and rally local communities in the fight for coastal conservation. What began as a series of targeted efforts has blossomed into a movement driven by passion, science, and community action.

Restoring Life: The Mangrove Reforestation Success Story

Mangroves are the lifeblood of coastal ecosystems, acting as natural barriers against erosion, storm surges, and climate change while providing critical nurseries for marine life. In 2024, Naturehub Collective set an ambitious goal: to plant 500 mangrove seedlings in degraded coastal areas, but through dedicated efforts, we exceeded this target and successfully planted 3,000 seedlings. However, fueled by unwavering community support and a deep commitment to restoration, the project far surpassed expectations—planting an astounding 3,000 mangrove seedlings with an unprecedented 100% survival rate.

Community involvement has been at the heart of this success. Local fishermen, school groups, and conservation volunteers joined forces, not just to plant trees but to nurture them. “Our coastline is our livelihood,” says Amina Hassan, a community leader and dedicated volunteer. “By restoring the mangroves, we are safeguarding our future. The results we see today are proof that collective action works.”

Sweeping Change: The Impact of Beach Cleanups

Beyond mangrove restoration, Naturehub Collective has tackled one of the most visible and pressing threats to marine ecosystems—plastic pollution. The initiative has successfully organized three large-scale beach cleanup campaigns, each drawing an increasing number of participants, from local families to eco-tourists. Over the past year alone, volunteers have removed over 2.5 tons of plastic waste from Mombasa’s beaches, preventing it from entering the ocean where it poses deadly risks to marine life.

The transformation is palpable. “When we started, the beaches were littered with plastic bottles and fishing nets,” recalls James Otieno, a conservation officer with Naturehub Collective. “Now, we’re seeing cleaner shores, healthier marine habitats, and a shift in community attitudes towards waste disposal. People are more aware, and they want to be part of the solution.”

Protecting the Future: Marine Turtle Conservation

If there’s one element of coastal conservation that captivates hearts, it’s the protection of marine turtles. These ancient mariners face multiple threats, from poaching and habitat destruction to accidental bycatch in fishing nets. Naturehub Collective has made significant strides in safeguarding turtle nesting sites along Mombasa’s coastline, implementing monitoring programs to ensure hatchlings reach the sea safely.

Currently, conservation teams are tracking several nesting sites, with the first wave of hatchlings expected in March 2025. “Each nest we protect is a step toward reversing population decline,” explains Sophie Njeri, a marine biologist with Naturehub Collective. “The anticipation of seeing these tiny creatures make their journey to the ocean keeps us going.”

The initiative has also worked closely with local fishers to implement turtle-friendly fishing practices, reducing accidental entanglements. This collaboration underscores a key tenet of Naturehub Collective’s approach—sustainable conservation cannot happen without community buy-in.

Science Meets Conservation: Ecosystem Monitoring

Conservation efforts must be backed by data, and Naturehub Collective’s ecosystem monitoring programs are providing valuable insights into the health of Mombasa’s marine environment. Seagrass meadows, essential for carbon sequestration and as fish nurseries, are being assessed for their resilience against climate change. Simultaneously, coral health monitoring is shedding light on bleaching patterns and recovery rates, guiding targeted restoration efforts.

“By combining traditional ecological knowledge with modern science, we’re able to make informed decisions,” notes Dr. David Mwangi, an ecologist working with Naturehub Collective. “Long-term monitoring allows us to measure the effectiveness of our conservation strategies and adapt accordingly.”

A Collective Effort for a Thriving Coastline

None of this progress would be possible without dedicated individuals, local partnerships, and vital financial backing. The Auckland Zoo Conservation Fund has played a pivotal role in supporting Naturehub Collective’s initiatives, enabling impactful, science-driven conservation work. More importantly, the spirit of coastal conservation has taken root in the hearts of the local communities, ensuring that these efforts endure for generations to come.

As we look ahead, the journey continues. With mangroves growing strong, beaches regaining their natural beauty, turtle hatchlings on the horizon, and robust ecosystem monitoring in place, the Kenya Coastal Conservation Initiative stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people unite to protect nature. The message is clear: coastal conservation is not just about preserving the past—it’s about securing the future, one mangrove, one cleanup, and one turtle at a time.

This project was funded by Auckland Zoo Conservation Fund