TurtleSafe Project:
Protecting Sea Turtles in Kilifi, Kenya
At Ocean Sole, we are deeply committed to preserving the majestic sea turtles that grace the shores of Kilifi, Kenya. The Ocean Sole TurtleSafe Project, initiated by our Coastal Impact Manager, Thomas Sagimo, in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service - Watamu, is a testament to our dedication to ocean conservation. ​​
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In 2026, the program has already gained further momentum. With support from Collette, we have expanded our ranger team, adding three new rangers to strengthen protection across key nesting beaches and increase our on-the-ground presence.
Why It's Important
Sea turtles face numerous threats, including poaching and the pervasive problem of marine debris. Plastics and other pollutants not only obstruct their nesting activities but are often mistaken for food, leading to fatal consequences. Our mission with the TurtleSafe Project is to safeguard these vulnerable creatures during their nesting season, ensuring their survival and the continuation of their species.
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Sea turtles also play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. By grazing on seagrass and controlling jellyfish populations, they help keep ocean habitats balanced and productive, supporting fish populations and overall reef health. Protecting turtles is therefore not only about saving a species — it is about preserving the wider marine systems that coastal communities depend on.
Our Impact
To address the threats facing sea turtles, Ocean Sole has developed a community-led conservation model by training and employing local fishermen as Turtle Safe Rangers. This approach provides sustainable income while transforming former poachers and resource users into active protectors of marine life. Rangers patrol nesting beaches, monitor turtle aactivity, respond to threats in real time, and engage the wider community in conservation awareness.
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Since the program began in January 2024, rangers have located and protected multiple turtle nests, building a strong foundation for conservation along Kilifi’s coastline. In 2025, the program achieved a major milestone with zero turtles poached, demonstrating the effectiveness of consistent, community-led protection.
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Building on this success, 2026 has started with strong momentum. With an expanded ranger team and increased on-the-ground presence, three nests have already been identified in the first quarter alone — a significant improvement compared to previous years. These results highlight the growing impact of the program and its potential to restore safe nesting conditions for sea turtles along the coast.
JOIN US
The journey to protect sea turtles is challenging but rewarding. We invite you to support the TurtleSafe Project by participating in beach clean-ups, advocating for marine conservation, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that Kilifi's shores remain a sanctuary for sea turtles for generations to come.