A mangrove restoration project along Kenya’s coast has planted nearly three million trees, rehabilitating degraded ecosystems while creating income for local communities.

The initiative, led by Furaha and Baraka Farms in partnership with Absa Life Insurance, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and Community Forest Associations, is being implemented under the Tunza Community programme.

Project leaders say about 1,300 hectares have been restored across Kwale, Kilifi, and Tana River counties, with the total number of seedlings planted nationwide nearing 30 million.

Furaha and Baraka Farms Chief Executive Officer Daniel Mwero said the project blends conservation with economic empowerment by supporting community-run nurseries and purchasing seedlings directly from residents.

“We are not just restoring forests; we are creating livelihoods,” Mwero said.

Under the model, community members grow, supply, and help maintain mangrove seedlings, ensuring local ownership of the restoration process.

Residents say the initiative is improving livelihoods. “We earn income from selling seedlings, which helps support our families and educate our children,” said Mbeyu Nyamawi, a beneficiary.

Mangroves are critical to coastal ecosystems, protecting shorelines from erosion, supporting fisheries, and storing carbon.

The project uses a mobile application to monitor tree growth and estimate carbon capture, with data shared with partners for accountability. It has also signed a 15-year agreement with Google to develop artificial intelligence tools for forest monitoring.

However, illegal logging and environmental degradation remain key threats. Community members have taken on a stewardship role, replanting damaged areas and protecting young trees.

The initiative targets restoration of up to 3,000 hectares of forest, with plans to expand to Tanzania.