The coastal forests of East Africa are renowned for their rich biodiversity and are considered a significant biodiversity hotspot. However, the encroachment of human settlements and various activities like agriculture have led to fragmentation of these forests. Sadly, some of these forest patches are so small that they do not qualify for official forest reserve status or protection under gazettement. Nonetheless, these seemingly insignificant patches are actually biodiversity gems and serve as vital centers of endemism.
In fact, more than 30 plant species found in this location are classified under the IUCN red list of threatened species, emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding these habitats.
Additionally, some of these forest patches possess unique features such as caves and are interconnected with various ecosystems. Such complex ecological networks contribute to their overall significance in the region. Moreover, these forest patches hold immense cultural value for the coastal communities of Kenya, making them even more special and appealing for conservation efforts.
Given their exceptional attributes, these forest patches present a compelling and attractive opportunity for conservation initiatives, wherein a delicate balance between preserving biodiversity, respecting cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable development can be achieved.
For these reasons, LEAF has conducted extensive outreach efforts in each of these communities, organizing community engagement workshops, and conducting socio-economic surveys to build rapport and gain insights into the remaining forest patches.
LEAF has actively participated with the community in tree planting initiatives to kickstart the reforestation process. Additionally, we have been closely monitoring the community's attitude towards tree planting and aftercare, and we are pleased to see that they have embraced the lessons taught and even established their own indigenous tree nursery as a means of generating income.
We aim at actively promoting and encouraging eco-tourism as a vital conservation measure. By fostering sustainable tourism practices, we aim to create awareness about the importance of preserving the local environment while also providing economic opportunities for the community.