Western Indian Ocean: charting a sustainable course for oceans and people, Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy, working with the support of the A. G. Leventis Foundation, launched two projects for the protection of ocean habitats in the Western Indian Ocean by developing and applying practical, science-based solutions. Run in Kenya and Tanzania, the two initiatives aimed to strengthen fisheries and restore mangrove habitats that provide food and livelihoods for local people. In Kenya, where 75% of local fisheries are dangerously overfished, the organisation worked with communities in Pate village to assess two important octopus fisheries. Based on the results, the communities decided to temporarily restrict fishing so that octopus populations can recover. The Nature Conservancy team trained 19 community members in monitoring techniques to track recovery. In Tanzania, a project was launched which involved coastal communities, Tanzania Marine Parks and Reserves Unit, and Wetlands International to protect mangrove forests that provide habitat for fish and defend against rising sea levels and storm surges. Together, these projects provide a model of how working with coastal communities around the world can improve outcomes for people and nature.
Grants given:
2018, 2019, 2020
