Mangrove Restoration

Mangrove forests grow in tidal river deltas and coastal areas which receive freshwater runoff. Mangroves are salt tolerant trees (halophytes). They have evolved complex systems to filter salt out or ‘sweat’ salt out through their leaves while retaining fresh water. Their roots are uniquely adapted to anchor the trees against wave action.

How We are Protecting Mangrove Forests

• ARC has established a mangrove reforestation and protection pilot program at the north end of Bagamoyo beach near Kisutu.
• We are collecting and planting seeds of various mangrove species, in collaboration with technical advisors.
• These seeds are being be planted in an area which is somewhat sheltered by an existing forest of old growth mangrove trees.
• We have further established a nursery to grow mangrove seedlings in a protected environment before planting them.
• ARC is striving to protect existing mangrove forests in collaboration with local authorities through advocacy programs with local inhabitants and loggers.
• ARC is running public awareness programs and collaborates with local schools to involve Bagamoyo students in mangrove planting, and sensitize future generations for the importance of mangrove ecosystems.
• ARC is seeking ways of providing alternative livelihoods to benefit local community where possible. Examples include sustainable charcoal briquette production – and we are currently assessing the viability of a Black Soldier Fly (BSF) project, seaweed farming as well as sea cucumber farming.

Why Mangrove Forests are Important

• Mangroves prevent erosion and help to stabilize the coastline. They act as the first line of defence for human settlements. They reduce the impact of waves and storm surges during floods, storms and hurricanes.
• Mangroves have complex root systems above and below the sand, which trap sediments and build soils.
  They improve the quality of water flowing into our oceans by filtering out pollutants like phosphates and nitrates from rivers.
• Mangroves sequester enormous amounts of carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions. These gasses are stored underwater as ‘blue carbon’ for thousands of years.
• Mangroves provide one of the most biodiverse habitats on earth. They are a rich source of food and nurture a wide variety of plants, animals, birds and fish. The roots form nurseries for marine species and provide protection from bigger predators.
• Mangroves play a crucial role in maintaining fisheries, food security, and coastal-dependent livelihoods. They are essential for human food production as they serve as nurseries for fish, shrimp, and crabs, supporting healthy populations that benefit local fisheries and sustains livelihoods.

Threats to Mangrove Forests

• Mangroves are cut down by loggers who are selling the wood for their livelihoods.
• The wood is used for building materials for boats, houses and other structures.
• They are used for firewood and charcoal.
• They are cleared for human settlements, and for commercial activities like farming and salt mining.
• Accumulation of pollution, dumping and chemicals from industrial and agricultural activities kill mangroves.

What Can be Done?

• Mangrove forests can be planted and grown from seeds & seedlings.
• Old growth and existing mangrove forests can be protected.
• Advocacy programs can sensitize local inhabitants on the benefits of mangrove forests.
• Local inhabitants who depend on cutting mangroves for their livelihoods need to have alternative sources of making a living without destroying the trees.