July's Impact - Kilifi Kenya
- rehemamercy900
- Aug 3
- 3 min read
Every month brings new opportunities to protect our oceans and strengthen the communities that depend on them. July was no exception. Through conservation activities and community engagement, we worked alongside local partners, volunteers, and supporters to create meaningful environmental and social impact across the Kenyan coast.
Conservation
Beach cleans
Marine litter continues to threaten our oceans, wildlife, and coastal livelihoods. Throughout July, Ocean Sole worked alongside the Ocean Sole Mamaz, Kwa Chambo Fishermen, and members of the Kilifi community to organize three beach cleanups, bringing together a total of 258 volunteers.
The Ocean Sole Mamaz led the month's first cleanup, collecting 194.4 kg of marine litter. The Kwa Chambo Fishermen followed by removing 312.04 kg from the shoreline. On 25 July, both groups joined members of the wider Kilifi community for a large community beach cleanup, supported by CMA CGM, removing a further 150 kg.
Together, these efforts removed a total of 656.44 kg of waste from the coastline in July.
While every cleanup reveals that marine pollution remains a challenge, While marine pollution remains a significant challenge, the lower volume of waste collected during the community cleanup may indicate that consistent cleanup efforts are helping reduce litter accumulation along sections of the coastline. Continued monitoring over time will help us better understand these trends, but the commitment shown by local communities is already making a visible difference.
Restoring Our Coast Through Mangrove Planting
Following the community beach cleanup on 25th July, volunteers came together once again to restore one of our most valuable coastal ecosystems. With generous support from CMA CGM, participants planted 1,500 mangrove seedlings.
Mangroves play a critical role in protecting coastlines from erosion, providing nursery habitats for fish, storing carbon, and supporting biodiversity.
Every seedling planted contributes to healthier coastlines by stabilising shorelines, supporting marine biodiversity and capturing carbon.
The activity also reflected the strength of collaboration, with the Ocean Sole Mamaz, Kwa Chambo Fishermen, and members of the Kilifi community working side by side to restore the environment they call home.
Turtle Safe Program: Giving a Nest a Second Chance
Not every turtle nest remains safe where it is laid. During July, the Turtle Safe Program responded to a washed-away sea turtle nest that had drifted ashore from Takaungu.
The team carefully rescued and relocated the nest, successfully recovering and relocating 12 viable turtle eggs. By transferring the eggs to a secure location, the team has given the developing hatchlings a renewed chance of survival.
While we await the outcome of the incubation period, every rescued nest is a reminder that timely conservation action can make a significant difference for endangered sea turtles.
Community
Ocean Sole Mamaz: Growing Skills, Growing Opportunities
July was a month of growth for the Ocean Sole Mamaz—both in their gardens and in their entrepreneurial journey.
The group held three garden sessions, preparing their garden for the next planting season. Together they cleared and prepared the land while establishing nurseries for eggplant and mchicha, creating the foundation for future harvests that will improve household nutrition and generate additional income.
Beyond the garden, the Mamaz participated in a five-day "From Coop to Commerce: Entrepreneurship Workshop," sponsored by Colette and MESENow. Through interactive training sessions, participants strengthened their knowledge in:
Business idea development
Business planning
Financial literacy
The workshop equipped the women with practical tools to strengthen existing businesses, develop new ideas, and improve financial decision-making, helping build more resilient livelihoods within their communities.
Kwa Chambo Fishermen: Leading Conservation from the Shore
The Kwa Chambo Fishermen continued to demonstrate their commitment to protecting the marine environment throughout July.
They actively participated in two beach cleanups, including the large community cleanup supported by CMA CGM, and joined the mangrove planting activity on 25th July.
Their continued involvement highlights the important role fishing communities play in safeguarding healthy marine ecosystems. By taking part in conservation efforts beyond fishing, they are helping ensure that future generations inherit cleaner beaches, healthier habitats, and more sustainable fisheries.
Every activity, whether restoring habitats, protecting wildlife, or empowering communities, contributes to a shared vision of thriving oceans and resilient coastal communities. July's achievements are a reminder that lasting conservation begins with people working together, one action at a time.
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