Rotarians, Rotaractors Continue Mangrove Restoration Project at Kenyan Coast

By Pauline Awuor
About 80 Rotaractors, Rotarians and their friends as well as 100 locals planted at least 12,500 mangroves in Malindi, Kenya.

The mangrove restoration project was previously done in Mombasa. Mangroves provide a natural defence against storm surges, coastal erosion and coastal flooding. It’s also a source of livelihood to the community, particularly fishing.
The site in Sabaki, Malindi, is an open area along the Indian Ocean. The site was previously a mangrove area which has been degraded. It hasn’t been submerged by more than 1.5 meters of saltwater; therefore, it has few pests and ideal for growing mangrove seedlings.

Mangroves, often referred to as the guardians of coastal ecosystems, serve as a natural shield against the ravages of nature, mitigating the impacts of coastal flooding and erosion. Moreover, they play a crucial role in supporting local livelihoods, particularly in fishing communities.
In addition to their environmental efforts, the group donated a year’s supply of sanitary towels to 41 girls at Majenjeni School, exemplifying their commitment to holistic community development.

The Rotary and Rotaract clubs that participated in the campaign include Youth Zone, Karura, North Coast, Mwatate, Kilifi, Nairobi Gigiri, Westland, Kampala South, Voi and Malindi. Partners and sponsors of the project include Absa Bank Kenya’s Malindi branch, Equity Bank Kenya’s Malindi branch, JJS African Collective, Trashion Kenya, Sarocodo, Nature Kenya, Patanani Widows Women Group, Bus Car, Premier School- Malindi, Little Hands for the Environment, Malindi Sanaa, Law Society of Kenya Malindi branch chairman Conrad Atiang, advocate Shadrack Wambui and Premier Foods Ltd.