Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), in collaboration with Equity Bank, conservation groups and Community Forest Associations, on Saturday planted 150,000 mangrove propagules in Tsunza beneath the Dongo Kundu Bypass in a major environmental restoration campaign.
The ambitious initiative seeks to restore degraded mangrove ecosystems damaged by human activities, industrial development and the effects of climate change, while strengthening coastal resilience, protecting marine biodiversity and improving livelihoods for surrounding communities.
The restoration exercise is also expected to boost eco-tourism opportunities in the region, with the conservation site set to become a future attraction for environmental education and sustainable tourism.
Under the Environmental Soldier Programme, KDF has planted more than 80 million trees nationwide.
Brigadier Dr Justino Muinde, Chief of Naval Medical Services representing the Kenya Navy Commander, said protecting and restoring the environment was vital in safeguarding lives, noting that mangroves play a critical role in carbon sequestration and climate regulation.
“Mangroves are not just ordinary trees. They are guardians of the coastline. They protect our shores from erosion, buffer communities against storms and serve as nurseries for fish that sustain local livelihoods,” stated Brigadier Muinde.
The exercise was sponsored by Equity Bank through its Coast region branches, which purchased 150,000 mangrove propagules from Community Forest Associations, thereby improving the livelihoods of local communities.
Equity Bank Coast Regional Payment Manager Mr Paul Mulwa said the project aligns with the bank’s nationwide sustainability strategy, noting that the lender aims to support the planting of 35 million trees across the country.
“If we do not take care of the environment, then the environment will take care of us. Climate change has already shown us its effects on communities and businesses. We believe environmental conservation is essential for sustainable economic growth,” said Mulwa.
Environmental organisation Furaha Baraka Farms is overseeing restoration work in the Tsunza area, which covers 1,300 hectares and has the capacity to accommodate 13 million mangrove trees.
Furaha Baraka Farms CEO Daniel Mwero said nearly six million mangroves had already been planted in partnership with corporations including Equity Bank, DTB, ABSA, KPA and independent power producers.
Beyond conservation, organisers emphasised the economic impact of the initiative, noting that community groups involved in propagating and planting mangroves are earning income, while women and youth are increasingly participating in restoration activities.
According to Furaha Baraka Farms, some corporate partners have expanded their support beyond environmental conservation by funding school fees, internships and water projects for surrounding community
Kenya Forest Service Ecosystem Conservator Elvis Katana Fondo warned that mangrove ecosystems remain highly fragile despite their immense ecological importance.
“In Kwale County, tree cover currently stands at 13.9 per cent, while the national target is 30 per cent by 2032. Mangroves help reduce wave impact, trap sediment, absorb carbon dioxide and support biodiversity, making them essential in combating climate change,” explained the KFS Ecosystem Conservator.
He also urged Kenyans to focus not only on planting trees but also on ensuring their survival.
Tsunza Assistant Chief Ngao Karimbu urged the community to protect forests from illegal destruction and support restoration efforts for the benefit of future generations.
By Sadik Hassan
