Together with our community, we are committed to tree planting projects around the world. In October and November, we are supporting a project with veritree in the Likoni-estuary in KwaleKenya. The restoration of valuable mangrove forests not only strengthens coastal communities, but also protects biodiversity. You can find out more about this project in this blog.
Why mangrove forests are so important
Mangrove forests are far more than just impressive coastal landscapes - they are an indispensable part of the ecosystem and an important source of livelihood for people in Kenya's coastal regions. Unfortunately, these valuable forests have been severely depleted in recent decades, threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities.
Picture: Mangrove restoration project site on the Mteza River at the mouth of the Likoni River
The challenge
The coast of Kenya is one of the least developed regions in the country and is heavily dependent on mangrove ecosystems. Due to massive urbanization and a lack of sustainable management, the mangrove forests have been overexploited and converted for other purposes. As a result, the coastlines have become unstable and many marine organisms have lost their habitats. This places an additional burden on communities already living in poverty.
Picture: Overview of the project site, Kwale and Mteza river basin
The goal: restoring mangrove forests
Together with veritree, one of our tree planting partners, we are working to restore the mangrove forests in Kenya. The aim of this project is to strengthen the local community and help it to break the cycle of poverty. The restored mangrove forests not only provide valuable habitats for many species, but also serve as a protective barrier against tropical storms and provide the community with new sources of income, such as sustainable fishing and harvests.
Picture: Newly planted mangrove plants
A look into the future: Merciline's story
Merciline, a mother of seven, is an example of how reforestation can have a positive impact on local people. Before participating in the project, she knew little about the importance of mangroves for fishing and her community. Today, she is an enthusiastic advocate for nature conservation and is committed to sustainable harvesting methods. Her commitment shows how important it is to involve people in the restoration efforts in order to achieve long-term success.
Picture: Local community actively participating in the project.
How the effects are measured
The success of this project depends largely on the careful monitoring and care of the newly planted trees. Regular stock checks and modern monitoring methods, such as the use of drones, help to document the growth of the mangroves and respond to challenges at an early stage. The project enables the mangrove forests on the Kenyan coast to be restored. And by protecting these vital ecosystems, they are helping to safeguard the livelihoods of local communities and preserve the environment in the long term.
Picture: Young mangrove plants in the Likoni estuary
Together for a greener world
Our commitment to the environment goes beyond planting trees. We believe in the power of community and that together we can make the world a better place. Would you like to get involved too? For every NIKIN product you buy, we plant a tree. Together we make the world greener - #treebytree!
