'Like the ocean is thanking us': Kenya community breathes new life into marine ecosystem

LAMU, Kenya 

A remarkable transformation is underway in the tranquil waters along the Kenyan coast.

In Shanga Ishakani, a small village nestled on Pate Island, the heart of the Kiunga Marine National Reserve in Kenya's Lamu County, a marine program is redefining the relationship between fishermen, community and the bountiful sea.

Sustainable fishing practices have become the focal point of the coastal community's efforts to preserve marine life and contribute to carbon sequestration.

The guardians of the initiative are fishermen like Mzee Juma Said and community member Nuru Aziza Amina.

Said, a seasoned fisherman with decades of experience, reminisced about the days when traditional fishing methods prevailed.

"We used to cast wide nets and catch whatever we could. Our actions took a toll on the ocean. The sea gave us life, and we were taking too much without giving back,” he said.

Amina, a passionate advocate for sustainable practices, explained how the community came together to initiate change.

"Our culture and heritage are intertwined with the ocean. We knew we had to protect it for future generations. We can't just take; we must give back to the sea that sustains us," she said.

The marine program in Kiunga Marine National Reserve is designed to do that.

Fishermen are being trained to use sustainable fishing gear, promote selective harvesting and minimize bycatch.

The dedicated fishermen and community members have undergone training and received invaluable support from the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), an organization committed to conserving natural resources and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Hassan Yusuf, NRT's coast regional director in Lamu, emphasized the importance of collaboration.

"Working hand in hand with these coastal communities to implement sustainable fishing practices is a testament to the power of local partnerships,” he said. “Together, we are building a more resilient and eco-conscious future for our coastal regions."

Traditional knowledge meets modern science

The transformation along the Kenyan coast is not just about safeguarding marine life. It is also about addressing climate change.

Halima Rahab, who is married to a fisherman, reflects optimism for a future where the sea remains abundant and the cultural heritage of coastal Kenya endures.

She said traditional knowledge is finally working hand-in-hand with modern science as the guardians of the ocean adapt practices to protect it.

"Our ocean has sustained us for generations. It's our duty to ensure it thrives for our children and grandchildren,” she said. “By adopting sustainable practices, we're not just protecting the sea -- we're preserving our culture and heritage."

Healthy marine ecosystems play vital role in carbon sequestration

By preserving and restoring the environment, coastal communities are making an essential contribution to mitigating the effects of global warming.

Mzee Juma Said explained how efforts have already started to make a difference.

"We've seen more fish, and the coral reefs are coming back to life. It's like the ocean is thanking us for our efforts," he said.

Amina added: "Our commitment to sustainable fishing practices isn't just about today; it's about tomorrow and the years to come. We're not just fishermen; we're stewards of the sea."

As the guardians of the ocean continue their journey, the waters along the Kenyan coast stand as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Their commitment to sustainable fishing practices aligns with global efforts to combat climate change, exemplified by the recent UN Climate Change summit in Dubai, COP28, convened to address critical environmental issues.​​​​​​​