Absa Kenya expands mangrove restoration to 350,000 trees along Coastline

Absa Bank kenya`s Chief Finance Officer Yusf Omari and Caost Regional manager Fathiya Noordean duringa Coastal Restoration programme at Sabaki Estuary in Malindi. [Courtesy]

Absa Kenya Foundation has scaled up its mangrove restoration efforts along the Kenyan coastline, planting an additional 200,000 mangrove trees at the Sabaki Estuary in Malindi.

This expansion brings the total number of mangrove trees planted under the initiative to 350,000 since its launch in 2023.

The coastal restoration project is part of the Foundation's Natural Resource Management pillar, which aims to plant and nurture 10 million trees by 2032.

The initiative also supports the Kenyan government's broader target of planting 15 billion trees over the same period.

The first phase of the programme saw the successful planting of 150,000 mangrove trees in Jomvu Kuu and Majoreni Forests in Mombasa and Kwale counties.

According to Absa, over 80 per cent of these mangroves have survived thanks to careful planting and community involvement.

Speaking at the launch of the second phase in Malindi, Absa Bank Kenya Chief Finance Officer Yusuf Omari emphasized the bank's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.

"As an active force for good, we care about the communities and the environment in which we operate," said Omari. "Mangroves play a vital role in biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and coastal protection. This initiative is not only about conservation but also about enhancing livelihoods."

Mangroves are known to absorb up to 900 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and serve as a natural defense against storms and coastal erosion.

They also support eco-tourism and small-scale aquaculture, providing economic benefits to local communities.

Absa has previously collaborated with local organizations such as the Gazi Women Group in Kwale County to create inclusive green jobs and promote sustainable livelihoods.

"Restoring mangroves is essential for sustainable development. It contributes to environmental health while supporting local economies," added Omari.

Beyond the coastline, Absa has partnered with the Kenya Forest Service, Community Forest Associations, and local communities to restore degraded ecosystems in key water towers such as the Aberdare Forest, Mau Complex, and Sorget Forest in Kericho County.