Coastal February Newsletter

Conservation

1. Coral Garden - Kwa Chambo Eco-tourism Project

Recent reef observations at Kwa Chambo revealed several impressive coral colonies, including massive Porites corals, some reaching remarkable sizes and mostly in very good health. These slow-growing corals increase by only about 1 mm per year, meaning the largest colonies could be several hundred years old (300-500 years old). Large Platygyra “brain” corals were also recorded and appeared healthy, forming important reef structures that support marine life. Another exciting sighting was Goniopora, a coral with long flower-like polyps that extend during the day and give it the appearance of a soft coral, although it is actually a hard coral. The colony observed was an uncommon encrusting form and in excellent condition. These observations highlight the ecological value of the reef and reinforce the importance of community-led conservation efforts to protect and restore this unique marine habitat.

Massive Porites, between 300-500 years old. Photo Credits - Siana K Phillips.

Goniopora a hard coral which has its long polyps out during the day, can be mistaken for a soft coral. Image from iReef.

2. Beach cleans

   This month, we conducted four beach clean-ups:

   • Two with Kwa Chambo Fishermen

   • Two with Ocean Sole Mamaz

   We were proud to collaborate with:

   • SEE Turtles

   • Sea for Life

   • Aleimar

   Total Waste Collected: 312.16 kg

   The largest categories collected were:

   • Shoes – 71.43 kg

   • Flip-flops – 23.97 kg

   • Fishing ropes and nets – 23 kg

   Shoes once again made up the highest proportion of debris, highlighting the persistent impact of ocean currents and long-distance marine pollution.

   Every kilogram removed reduces risks to marine life, especially turtles and reef species vulnerable to entanglement and ingestion.

   
   

   

   Mama Tabu from Ocean Sole Mamaz with two volunteers from Aleimar.

   
   

   3. Turtle safe project

   February brought encouraging progress in our turtle conservation efforts.

   Two New Hawksbill Nests Recorded

   We documented two new nests of the critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtle:

   • One at Kwa Chambo

   • One at Katoa

   Both nests are expected to hatch in April, with an average incubation period of approximately 65 days.

   Hatchling Release Success

   One previously monitored nest successfully hatched this month.

   • Total eggs laid: 131

   • Empty shells counted after excavation: 90

   • Hatching success rate: 68.90%

   This strong success rate reflects favorable nest conditions and effective monitoring efforts.

   Every hatchling released increases the chances of sustaining future turtle populations along our coast.

1. 

   Baraka and Salim, Ocean Sole turtle rangers relocating a nest.

Sponsor a Turtle Ranger

Community

4. Kwa Chambo Fishermen Self-help Group

Kwa Chambo fishermen actively participated in:

• Two (2) beach clean-ups

• Two (2) snorkelling reconnaissance sessions

During snorkelling recce activities, 7 eco-tourists were guided to coral reef areas at Nguruni, promoting sustainable eco-tourism and reef awareness.

Kwa Chambo Fishermen doing waste sorting after a beachclean.

Sponsor a Beach Clean

5. Ocean Sole Mamaz Self-help Group

The Ocean Sole Mamaz participated in two (2) beach clean-ups in collaboration with:

• SEE Turtles

• Sea for Life

• Aleimar

  The group also had three garden sessions where they participated in:

  • Raising garden beds for chilli and passion fruit planting

  • Preparation of seed nurseries for upcoming planting season

  • Compost turning

  • Garden mulching

  These activities support food security and income diversification while promoting sustainable environmental practices.

  
  

  

  Riziki, Santa and Joyce preparing seed nurseries.

Gift Seeds for The Garden

6. Nyota ya Asubuhi

We supported Nyota ya Asubuhi Orphanage with:

• Supported 104 children with a rice and beef meal

• Provided 50 young ladies with sanitary pads

  These activities contribute to improved nutrition,and school attendance among the children.

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  Young ladies receiving menstrual hygiene education.

  
  

A total of 312.16 kg of waste removed, protection of endangered turtle nests, eco-tourism engagement, and direct community support highlight a holistic approach to coastal conservation and sustainable development.

Sponsor Sanitary Pads (50 Young Ladies)