Rotaractors Spearhead Second Annual Mangrove Restoration In Kenya

By Patience Salama

The Sabaki Estuary was buzzing with energy as 452 participants—Rotaractors, Interactors, Rotarians, environmentalists, community members, and partners—came together for the 2nd Annual Mangrove Restoration Sabaki Edition and Waste Segregation Points launch in February 2025.

Organized by the Rotaract Clubs of Malindi and Karura, the event brought together 19 Rotaract clubs —16 from Kenya and three from Uganda — along with incredible support from SARICODO, SBM Bank, Leaf Charity, Absa Bank, Malindi Premier School, Nawiri Africa, One Million Trees for Kilifi and Malindi Sanaa.

The participants planted 4,000 mangrove seedlings and 25,000 propagules, restoring the estuary’s marine habitat and strengthening its ability to fight erosion, flooding, and climate change. Recognizing the urgency of biodiversity conservation, we also set up a nursery for the endangered Heritiera littoralis species, with a goal of growing 500 seedlings.

But this project wasn’t just about trees, it was also about tackling waste management. We launched waste segregation points at Barani School and Kingsway Academy, making it easier to sort recyclables. Thanks to Okoa Youth CBO, Interact clubs can now sell these recyclables and raise funds for community projects.

The impact of this initiative goes beyond the environment. A healthier mangrove forest means stronger fisheries, more tourism, and better climate resilience—directly benefiting local fishermen, seafood vendors, hospitality workers, and small businesses. To keep things on track, SARICODO will monitor the mangroves at three, six, and 12-month intervals, Malindi Sanaa will lead community cleanups and awareness programs, and One Million Trees for Kilifi will take care of the nursery and tree evaluations.

The project also received support from Maono Space, WADADIA, Edu Initiative, Youth Dare Initiative, and the Rotary Clubs of Malindi and Karura, who offered valuable assistance to make this event a success.

This project showed us the power of teamwork. When people and organizations come together with a shared purpose, real change happens. As we shake the dried mud off our hands, we remain committed to nurturing these seedlings, promoting sustainable habits, and making an even bigger impact in the years ahead. The future is in our hands—let’s keep planting for tomorrow and cleaning for today!