Empowering the Gazi Community Through Mangrove Restoration and Sales of Carbon Credits
Nairobi, 24 October 2023 - The United Nations in Kenya has bestowed the title of Person of the Year upon Mikoko Pamoja, marking a significant shift in community-based environmental efforts. This recognition applauds the Gazi community's transformative journey to mangrove restoration champions and their groundbreaking efforts in global carbon financing.
Historically, communities adjacent to Gazi Bay, in Kwale County, relied heavily on the mangrove forests for timber, a practice that jeopardized this vital ecosystem. However, recognizing the unsustainability of such actions, they embarked on an ambitious journey to restore and protect over 117 ha of mangrove forests since 2013.
Mangroves are the lifeblood of coastal communities. They serve as habitats for a myriad of marine species, some of which are of commercial significance. They also protect communities from storm surges and play an instrumental role in carbon sequestration. Their degradation has far-reaching implications not just for marine life but for coastal communities and the planet.
Mikoko Pamoja, which translates to "Mangroves Together," is not just an environmental initiative; it is a transformative community empowerment movement. Their progressive approach to mangrove conservation has cultivated an innovative revenue stream, channeling funds from sales of carbon credit directly into community development.
Since its inception, Mikoko Pamoja has generated US$210,000 to the community through the abatements of 18,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, according to the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI).
The project showcases a harmonious blend of environmental protection and community empowerment. Revenue generated from their carbon offset scheme has enabled the construction of schools and hospitals and facilitated clean water access for over 7,000 community members in Gazi and Makongeni villages.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), mangroves play a pivotal role in climate action. UNEP's studies underscore that these forests are carbon-rich fortresses. With a capacity to store, on average, 1,000 tonnes of carbon per hectare within their biomass and subterranean soils, they are among nature-based solutions to climate change challenges. When these ecosystems are degraded or their area is converted to other land uses, they not only halt taking up more carbon but more importantly they release the already stored carbon back to the atmosphere leading to global warming.
"The essence of Mikoko Pamoja lies in its ethos of interweaving environmental stewardship with community empowerment," says Kassim Juma, Project coordinator the initiative. "By restoring our mangroves, we aren't just protecting our coastline; we're creating an empowered future for our people."
“"Our story is one of transformation. By restoring our mangroves, we're not only safeguarding our marine ecosystems but ensuring a brighter, empowered future for our people," said Juma who is a Gazi Bay community member.
Mikoko Pamoja was developed by scientists of the KMFRI together with their partners in the United Kingdom. According to Dr James Kairo, Project Developer and Chief Scientist at KMFRI, “Mikoko Pamoja is an excellent example of ‘triple win’ project – a win for climate, community, and biodiversity.”
“Success of Mikoko Pamoja has been replicated in Vanga Blue Forests (VBF), and plans are underway to expand the programme to Lamu and other areas along the coast,” said Dr Kairo.
This multifaceted approach has not only garnered international acclaim but has also placed the people of Gazi at the forefront of community-led environmental action. By leveraging the potential of the global carbon market, Mikoko Pamoja has ensured that the villagers are not passive beneficiaries but proactive stakeholders in their collective future.
The United Nations' recognition serves as a testament to Mikoko Pamoja's real-world impact. It is a shining example of how local initiatives can have global significance, and how nature-based solutions can offer a roadmap to sustainable community development.
The United Nations resident coordinator, Stephen Jackson who heads the UN country team in Kenya that conferred the award said; “…today, the Gazi community stands as a beacon of hope, illustrating how local actions can resonate globally. Their efforts underscore the delicate balance between human needs and environmental conservation, emphasizing the power of community engagement and innovation.”
Representatives of the Gazi community will receive the award at a ceremony held at the United Nations Office at Nairobi on 24 October – a day that marks the founding of the United Nations 78 years ago.
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For more information please contact:
Newton Kanhema or Tirus Wainaina
Deputy Director Tel: +254-716-431765
United Nations Information Service Email: tirus.wainaina@un.org
+254-20-7621102/0709021102
Email: kanhema@un.org
PRESS RELEASE - Mikoko Pamoja Awarded United Nations in Kenya Person of The Year
