Kilifi County Launches Ocean Climate Literacy Initiative to Promote Marine Conservation and Blue Carbon Solutions
The initiative emphasizes the need to educate grassroots communities on how to responsibly utilize ocean resources for personal gain without contributing to pollution.
A person lost in thought, gazing at the sea of plastic—nature drowning in human waste. Photo/Commonwealth.
By Juliet Jerotich
Environmental stakeholders in Kilifi County, in partnership with a Christian conservation society, have launched a new initiative aimed at promoting ocean climate literacy in local schools and churches.
This effort seeks to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem along the coastal region.
The initiative emphasizes the need to educate grassroots communities on how to responsibly utilize ocean resources for personal gain without contributing to pollution.
“Farmers once benefited from a plentiful supply of ocean products, particularly fish. However, they are now facing a scarcity of fish, which is negatively impacting the fish business,” said Bishop Daniel Ndungu.
Stakeholders believe that educating people about the marine environment will not only help conserve coastal areas but will also reduce pollution that affects other water bodies and catchment areas.
“I propose training one-on-one with the people of Kilifi, especially the women I lead, to create lasting change,” said Benakali Adanyi, the Women Leader of Kilifi County.
In a separate discussion, government and non-governmental organizations urged Kilifi County to adopt nature-based solutions, with a strong emphasis on blue carbon conservation.
Dr. James Mwaluma, CEO of the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, highlighted the importance of planting mangroves and seagrass as natural methods to enhance blue carbon, which plays a crucial role in environmental protection, especially during crises.
As climate change continues to threaten the region, stakeholders stressed the need for strong policies to safeguard both the environment and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
They called for increased support for blue carbon initiatives, which could not only strengthen conservation efforts but also promote sustainable policies and ensure that coastal communities benefit from these initiatives.
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