By Monica Nashon
Communities, youth groups, environmental organisations and government officials gathered in Makongeni, Kwale County, to mark World Wetlands Day by planting mangroves to restore coastal ecosystems and support livelihoods.
The event saw the planting of 1,800 mangrove seedlings along degraded sections of the coastline, bringing together residents, conservation groups and government agencies in a unified effort to restore critical wetland areas and raise environmental awareness.
Leading the initiative was Edith Charo, County Director of Environment at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), who underscored the importance of mangroves in conservation efforts.
“Today we celebrate World Wetlands Day by planting mangroves with our partners and the community. These 1,800 seedlings will play a vital role in protecting our environment,” she said.
Charo noted that wetlands are essential for agriculture and biodiversity, supporting activities such as rice farming while providing habitats for diverse plant and animal species.
She added that mangroves play a crucial role in climate change mitigation by absorbing carbon dioxide.
Mangroves, commonly found along Kenya’s coastline in Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Lamu and Tana River counties, act as natural barriers against storms, strong waves and coastal erosion.
They are also rich “blue carbon ecosystems,” capable of storing significantly more carbon than many terrestrial forests.
Beyond environmental benefits, mangroves sustain marine life by providing breeding grounds for fish and crabs—resources that many coastal communities depend on for food and income.
However, these ecosystems face growing threats from deforestation, pollution and coastal development.
Speakers at the event emphasized the need for community involvement.
Diana Ngalizi of Proglee Shapers Environmental Organisation called for renewed cultural commitment to conservation, while youth leaders highlighted opportunities such as beekeeping and carbon credit programs.
