Welcome to Vanga Blue Forest Project
About Our Mission
The Vanga Blue Forest (VBF) Project is a pioneering blue carbon initiative launched in 2019 on the southeast coast of Kenya in Kwale County, specifically in Lunga-Lunga Sub-County, Vanga Ward. This community-based organization operates across four villages: Vanga, Jimbo, Kiwegu and Jasini, with members belonging to the VAJIKI Community Forest Association (CFA) and the Vanga and Jimbo Beach Management Units (BMUs).
Established under the VAJIKI CFA, the project aims to protect and sustain the flow of mangrove ecosystem services by halting further deforestation and degradation of the ecosystem, while also conserving and restoring seagrasses and associated biodiversity in Vanga Bay to support sustainable resource use. The project recognizes the critical role of mangroves and seagrass in mitigating climate change, enhancing biodiversity and supporting coastal livelihoods through active community engagement in conservation efforts.
Vanga Blue Forest Project
Community-led mangrove and seagrass conservation in coastal Kenya
Monitoring
Biannual monitoring in May and November measures carbon sequestration, ecosystem health, and biodiversity changes. Community members collaborate with KFS (Kenya Forest Service, likely) and KMFRI (Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, likely) for comprehensive assessments.
Marine Conservation
This involves the implementation of seagrass meadow protection through seasonal closures (tengefus), with specific access hours and gear restrictions to ensure sustainable use and ecosystem protection.
Forest Surveys
Regular surveys monitor areas for illegal activities, assess tree species diversity, growth rates, and overall forest health to maintain ecosystem integrity.
Awareness Creation
This includes regular workshops, community meetings, and educational campaigns to inform about the ecological, economic, and social benefits of conservation.
Training & Capacity Building
This activity provides comprehensive training programs in monitoring techniques, sustainable practices, governance, and essential life skills for community members.
Our Impact
Making a difference in coastal conservation and community development
Protected Area
Total protected mangrove and seagrass area
CO₂ Prevention
Tonnes of CO₂ emissions prevented
Community Investment
Of carbon credit income supporting local development
Our Partners
Working together for a sustainable future
Join Our Conservation Journey
Help us protect and restore the Vanga Blue Forest ecosystem while supporting sustainable community development. Together, we can create lasting impact through carbon offsetting, biodiversity conservation, and community empowerment.
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