Mangroves play an important role in protecting coastal villages such as Azuretti, Vitré 1 and Braffedon from the effects of climate change. At the heart of the Action Climatique Féministe – Afrique de l’Ouest (ACF-AO) project, reforestation campaigns are deployed in our various intervention zones to strengthen their resilience to the effects of climate change.
The Importance of Mangroves
Mangroves are more than just a natural beauty; they provide a vital natural barrier against coastal erosion. Their roots stabilize the soil, protecting coastal villages. They also absorb atmospheric CO2, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere.
For the local communities of Grand Bassam, Adiaké, Grand Lahou and Jacqueville, mangroves represent an essential source of food. They are home to a rich biodiversity that supports artisanal fishing, providing habitats for fish, shellfish and other marine species. This marine biodiversity forms an important basis for the food and economic security of coastal populations. Many women derive their livelihood directly from the mangroves, selling fresh or smoked fish to provide a source of income for their families.
Threats to mangroves
Unfortunately, mangroves face a number of threats. Pollution, often from human activities on land and at sea, compromises water quality and harms the health of ecosystems. In addition, the cutting of mangroves for firewood, often as part of an economic activity in these communities, contributes to mangrove degradation.
Solutions provided by the ACF-AO project
As part of the ACF-AO project, several initiatives are being implemented to counter these threats and restore the health of mangroves:
- Mangrove reforestation: Reforestation activities are organized throughout the project to restore degraded mangroves. Mangrove seedlings are replanted to reinforce areas affected by deforestation.
- Setting up mangrove nurseries: Mangrove nurseries are set up to enable villagers to grow and replant mangroves in the future. This encourages sustainability and community autonomy in mangrove conservation.
- Material support for reforestation: The project provides reforestation materials such as tools and equipment for planting and maintaining mangroves.
- Support for production units: Initiatives also include support for the establishment of charcoal production units and woodyards, offering sustainable alternatives to meet communities’ energy needs without harming mangroves.
- Supply of improved equipment: Improved furnaces are distributed to reduce the environmental impact of coal production, thus promoting a more sustainable use of natural resources.
A preserved mangrove, a thriving community
By preserving and restoring mangroves, the ACF-AO project seeks not only to protect the environment, but also to improve living conditions and strengthen the resilience of local communities in the face of climate challenges. These collective efforts aim to ensure a sustainable future for future generations, while preserving the natural and cultural heritage of coastal villages such as Ebrah, Assomlan and Betankro Island.
General Secretariat – Communication
