The National Ocean Service describe Mangroves as the resilient coastal trees, that grow at tropical and subtropical latitudes near the equator because they cannot withstand freezing temperatures. They are a resilient coastal ecosystems bridging land and sea and the unsung heroes in the global fight against climate change.

With their unparalleled capacity for carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and biodiversity support, mangroves hold immense potential to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of environmental conservation, particularly in the context of climate action. In Kenya, the restoration and preservation of mangrove forests emerge as a powerful strategy to combat climate change and secure a sustainable future for the nation’s coastal communities and beyond.

“I am pleased to announce that since 2019, the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) has successfully planted over 35,000 mangroves in the Tudor Creek region. As an organization, we firmly believe in the collective responsibility to safeguard our environment, and the restoration and nurturing of mangroves are vital steps in this endeavor.” Godfrey Kiptum, CEO, IRA.

He added that going forward,  IRA is committed to upscaling efforts to further restore mangrove trees, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment for the community and to ensure the preservation of the invaluable ecosystems, benefiting both the present and future generations.

Kiptum spoke during the extention of an MOU between IRA and the Kenya Forestry Services (KFS) aimed to restore and rehabilitate degraded mangrove forests in Tudor Creek.

Why Mangrove?

You are probably asking why mangrove and not any other trees. When all trees are important players in climate change fight, mangroves are special in different ways.

1.Carbon Sequestration – Mangroves are among the most effective carbon sinks on the planet. Their intricate root systems and extensive coverage of tidal zones enable them to capture and store vast amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), mangroves can sequester up to five times more carbon per hectare than tropical rainforests.

Kenya’s mangrove forests, spanning over 60,000 hectares along its Indian Ocean coastline, present an invaluable opportunity to mitigate the nation’s carbon footprint and contribute to global climate change efforts.

2. Coastal Protection – Mangroves act as natural buffers against coastal erosion and storm surges, offerring protection to vulnerable coastal communities.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that every kilometer of mangrove forest can reduce wave heights by up to 50%. In areas prone to cyclones and extreme weather events, mangroves act as a first line of defense, shielding human settlements, infrastructure, and agricultural lands from the devastating impacts of rising sea levels and intensifying storms.

3. Biodiversity Support – Kenya’s mangroves provide crucial habitats for a diverse array of marine and avian species. From fish nurseries to nesting grounds for migratory birds, these ecosystems foster a rich biodiversity that sustains livelihoods and supports ecosystem health.

According to the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), mangroves are essential habitats for economically significant fish species, such as shrimp, crabs, and finfish, contributing to the nation’s fisheries sector and food security.

Water Quality Improvement – This cannot be said enough. Mangroves play a pivotal role in water purification. Their dense root systems trap sediments and filter out pollutants before they reach the ocean, safeguarding nearby coral reefs and marine environments.

By this filtration process, mangroves enhance water quality, promoting the growth of marine flora and fauna, and by extension, support Kenya’s vibrant coastal tourism industry.

“Amidst the escalating impacts of climate change, investing in mangrove conservation and restoration is a tangible adaptation measure for Kenya’s coastal communities.” said KFS Board Chairman Job Chirchir.  “By enhancing climate resilience, mangroves offer sustainable solutions to the challenges posed by sea-level rise, saltwater intrusion, and changing weather patterns.”

The World Bank estimates that for every dollar invested in mangrove restoration, returns of up to $3-$5 can be gained through avoided damages from storm-related events. Mangroves stand as beacons of hope in the global crusade against climate change.

Thick mangrove forest – the roots sink in carbon, mitigating against global warming.

In Kenya, the restoration and preservation of these vital ecosystems align with the nation’s commitment to the UN SDG of environmental conservation. Embracing mangrove restoration bolsters carbon sequestration, ensures coastal protection, fosters biodiversity, improves water quality, and enhances climate resilience for Kenya’s coastal communities and marine ecosystems.

Through the collective efforts of governments, organizations, and individuals, the restoration of mangrove forests becomes a testament to the power of nature and human determination in the pursuit of a sustainable and climate-resilient future.

As of 2023, over 10,000 hectares of mangrove forests have been rehabilitated, with efforts continuing to accelerate. This is in response to the President’s call on 30% forest cover by 2030.