For fishing communities in Kenya’s South Coast, felling mangrove trees to make boats has long been a part of life. Residents protecting and replanting mangroves are now selling 3,000 tonnes of carbon credits a year to international buyers, for about $5-$6 (Sh500-Sh600 ) a tonne. Mikoko Pamoja (Mangroves Together), the community organisation working to protect local mangroves and reap the benefits, is proud of its success so far. Money a big incentiveKwale KFS ecosystem conservation officer Nafasi Mfahaya said the money has been a major motivation for people to become involved in mangrove conservation. A law passed by the Kenyan government in 2005 introduced the concept of community participation in forest conservation, facilitating the formation of Mikoko Pamoja.

Source: The Star October 27, 2016 23:30 UTC