Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support 25% of marine species. They provide food and livelihoods for over 500 million people globally, including small-scale fishers in Kenya. However, threats like coral bleaching, overfishing, and pollution endanger their survival.
WCS Kenya Marine Program monitors coral reef health, tracks changes in fish populations, and identifies key threats to inform conservation strategies. Through science-based data and policy advocacy WCS Kenya collaborates with local communities and government agencies. The program strengthens Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and promotes sustainable fishing practices to protect reefs.
WCS Kenya Marine Program conducts regular assessments to monitor coral reef health, tracking coral cover, fish populations, and reef resilience. This data helps identify key threats and shape effective conservation strategies. In collaboration with government agencies and local communities, WCS strengthens Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs), locally known as Tengefu, to ensure long-term reef protection. Additionally, WCS supports small-scale fishers in adopting sustainable fishing practices to minimize reef damage. Through the Annual Fishers’ Forum, WCS shares scientific insights and advocates for informed policies, strengthening marine conservation efforts at national and regional levels.