In Kenya’s Lamu County, women from the Mtangawanda Women’s Association are leading efforts to restore degraded mangrove forests. The community has transformed since 2018 when The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and partners initiated a project to secure and manage these vital ecosystems. Mangroves, known for preventing coastal erosion, acting as carbon sinks, and supporting biodiversity, are crucial in combating climate change. Under the leadership of Zulfa Hassan, known as “Mama Mikoko,” the association has planted over 61,000 mangroves which have enhanced local fisheries and brought forth new economic opportunities. The project has fostered community engagement and sustainable practices, building a brighter future for the region by protecting and invigorating this stretch of coastal Kenya.
