Lead image for Mangroves matter: Let’s unite to save blue forests.
As the world confronts the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, one of our most effective natural solutions lies on Africa's coastlines. Mangroves are among the most valuable ecosystems on Earth.
Mangrove forests store carbon at rates up to four times higher than many terrestrial woodlands, making them a powerful ally in addressing climate change. They buffer coastlines, helping to prevent erosion and flooding. Mangroves also maintain water quality by acting as natural filters.
For fish and marine life, mangroves provide a habitat and ensure the biodiversity in these deep waters is enhanced. Healthy mangroves support livelihoods, food security and public safety during severe weather.
Despite their importance, mangroves are disappearing at an alarming rate, with serious impacts. The main drivers of mangrove loss and degradation across Africa are over-exploitation, conversion pressure, pollution and climate change.
At The Nature Conservancy, we believe a different future is possible. Working with a broad coalition of partners, including coastal communities, government agencies, NGOs and private sector partners, TNC is driving the management, protection and restoration of lost or degraded marine ecosystems.
The approach is deliberate: promote proven best practices and scale them through traditional and innovative financing mechanisms. Lasting conservation requires strong partnerships, local leadership and investment models that can sustain progress.
The global conservation community is mobilising on other fronts. Through the Global Mangrove Alliance, more than 100 organisations are committed to halting mangrove loss, restoring degraded mangrove ecosystems and expanding protection of these critical habitats.
The establishment of the Global Mangrove Alliance Kenya Chapter is strengthening collaboration to accelerate site-level action aligned with national targets and global ambitions. Kenya has also demonstrated leadership through ambitious policy commitments.