Supporting livelihoods through sustainable management and improved fishing practices
Kilifi County is one of the poorest counties in Kenya, characterised by low levels of eduction, lack of access to clean water, poor sanitation and poor housing. Competition for marine resources is high which in turn, has led to over-exploitation due to the rampant use of destructive and illegal fishing gear. Nearshore habitats, such as mangroves, salt marshes and seagrass beds are particularly affected and deep-sea environments are also at risk.
To address these negative effects on resources, COMRED is adopting a collaborative approach to manage marine resources. This includes engaging with government agencies, local communities and fishers. The project primarily targets fishing communities in the county, with a focus on marginalised ethnic groups such as the Mijikenda (particularly the Giriama, Chonyi, Kauma, and Duruma, Digo), Bajuni, Pemba, and the Waata. These groups all face multi-dimensional poverty and climate vulnerability due to their reliance on declining marine resources, limited education, and socioeconomic marginalisation. Climate change exacerbates their vulnerability through declining fish stocks and extreme weather events.
Using a participatory approach, the project is working with stakeholders to map and co-design conservation strategies for sensitive fish habitats. The project is also helping to enhance the capacity of four Beach Management Units (BMUs) and local stakeholders to sustainably manage fisheries resources, identify and support alternative livelihoods, implement a fisheries catch monitoring system and procure market infrastructure. The project will also contribute towards the creation of a Joint Co-management Marine Area Plan (JCMA plan) with a seasonal octopus closure in Roka.
Photo credit: Coastal and Marine Resource Development (COMRED)
