Location: Mida Creek, Kilifi County
Lead Agency: Kenya Forest Service (KFS)
Theme: “Protect Wetlands for Our Future”

Event Overview

Kenya joined the global community in celebrating the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem on 26th July 2025. The national celebrations were held at Mida Creek in Kilifi County, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa.

This year’s theme, “Protect Wetlands for Our Future”, spotlighted the indispensable role mangroves play in climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustaining coastal livelihoods.

Launch of Key Policy Documents

In a historic move to strengthen the conservation of Kenya’s mangrove ecosystems, the Cabinet Secretary launched four key national policy documents:

1. National Mangrove Ecosystem Guidelines
2. Kenya National Mangrove Manual
3. Mangrove Tree Nursery Manual
4. Mangrove Harvesting Plan

These tools are aimed at enhancing science-based, inclusive, and sustainable management and restoration of mangrove forests across Kenya’s coastline.

Kenya’s Mangrove Profile

Kenya’s coastline stretches over 600 kilometers, and is home to approximately 61,274 hectares of mangrove ecosystems. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) leads mangrove restoration and conservation initiatives, with priority efforts in Lamu, Kilifi, Mombasa, and Kwale counties, in collaboration with local communities and stakeholders.

Highlights from the Celebrations

• Mangrove Planting Ceremony: Over 3,000 mangrove seedlings planted by CS Barasa, students, community members, and institutional partners.
• Cultural Exhibitions: Coastal communities showcased traditional dances, songs, and local knowledge related to mangrove use and conservation.
• Community Booths: Local NGOs, women’s groups, and youth organizations exhibited their ongoing conservation efforts.
• Reaffirmation of Commitment: KFS Regional Conservator James Mburu and Deputy County Commissioner Forestry Beatrice Mbula reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring and protecting mangrove ecosystems.

Pre-Event Activities

In the run-up to the main celebration, KFS—in partnership with local stakeholders—organized the Mangrove Mudbath Fun Run at Big Ship, Mikindani in Mombasa County. The event, flagged off by Mangrove Officer Mr. Nasib Mwamudzi, brought together students, community members, and conservationists who also participated in mangrove planting.

Private Sector and Civil Society Engagement

KFS recognized the outstanding partnership with the Kenya Pipeline Company, which has supported the planting of over 800,000 mangroves in Mombasa County. Special mention was given to Earthlungs NGO for their unwavering commitment and impact in restoring degraded mangrove habitats. These contributions reinforce the role of multi-sectoral collaboration in achieving national conservation goals.

Call to Action

Mangroves are nature’s coastal defenders—they reduce storm surges, store carbon, and support fisheries. KFS calls on all Kenyans to:

1. Plant mangroves, especially indigenous species.

2. Support sustainable harvesting guided by approved management plans.

3. Educate communities, especially youth, on the importance of wetlands.

4. Promote local stewardship and community-based conservation.