Our Love for Bees, Fish, and Forest Habitats
Mr. Mbaarak Abdalla now leads the Kenya Marine Foundation, which encompasses two impactful organizations: the Brain Youth Group and the Forest Restoration Agency (FRA).
Brain Youth Group:
Mangrove Reforestation:
Since 2011, the group has successfully planted 3.8 million mangroves in Mombasa County, with support from global donors like The Pollination Project Foundation, IDEA WILD, ClimatePartner, and UNDP, among others.
Biodiversity Conservation: The group maintains 270 bee hives and two marine fish ponds within the mangrove forest, promoting ecosystem balance.
Community Engagement:
Key activities include community sensitization, school outreach programs, and beach cleanups.
Expansion Projects:
Collaborating with Marquee Equity, the group aims to expand its operations to include chicken rearing, inland fish ponds, an international camper hostel, deep-sea fishing vessels, and transportation for campers.
Forest Restoration Agency (FRA) – Tree Planting Initiative:
FRA is on a mission to plant 1 billion trees across Kenya by 2030, focusing on mangroves, terrestrial trees, and fruit trees. (much faster now with the Marine Foundation support)
International Collaboration: As part of the Ecosystem Restoration Community (ERC) from the Netherlands, FRA anticipates hosting 100 international campers through the ERC Foundation to assist in various activities.
Mr. Mbaarak Abdalla’s leadership in environmental conservation and community development showcases a commitment to sustainability and biodiversity in Kenya.
Impact to Nature’s Health & Economy
The activities undertaken by the group have significant positive impacts on both the local economy and the health of nature in Kenya. Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Boost to Local Economy:
Beekeeping:
The maintenance of 270 bee hives contributes to the local economy through the production of honey and other bee products. Beekeeping is a sustainable source of income for local communities, providing livelihoods for beekeepers and those involved in the processing and marketing of bee products. The sale of honey and other bee-derived products can generate income, supporting the economic well-being of the community.
Fish Farming:
The two marine fish ponds provide a source of protein-rich food for local consumption and can also be a means of income through the sale of fish. Aquaculture in the mangrove forest is a sustainable way to enhance food security while reducing pressure on wild fish stocks.
Health of Nature:
Biodiversity Conservation:
The bee hives and fish ponds within the mangrove forest contribute to the conservation of biodiversity. Bees play a crucial role in pollinating plants, including those in the mangrove ecosystem, which is essential for the reproduction of these plants and the overall health of the ecosystem. The marine fish ponds can support a variety of aquatic species, contributing to the diversity of life in the area.
Ecosystem Balance:
By promoting sustainable practices like beekeeping and fish farming, the group helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem. The mangrove forest provides a habitat for a wide range of species, and activities like these can be integrated into the ecosystem without causing harm. This approach ensures that the natural environment is preserved while also providing economic benefits to the community.
Overall, the group’s efforts in biodiversity conservation through beekeeping and fish farming not only support the local economy but also contribute to the health and sustainability of the natural environment in Kenya.
Continental Development Agency for the Youth- CDA
Kenya with BYG & Sierra Leone with Propel Organization Qualify as CDA Certification
introduction to CDA
CDA will lead the Youth of Africa to Vocational Training for local Artisal & Industrial Developments
The Continental Development Agency for the Youth (CDA) is an initiative designed to empower the youth of Africa through vocational training, focusing on local artisanal and industrial developments. This agency is spearheaded by the Marine Foundation, which believes in the potential of young people to become significant contributors to their societies, communities, and regions, thereby boosting the continental economy of Africa.
The CDA aims to provide a vocational ground for the education of young individuals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various trades and industries. This approach is expected to not only foster personal development but also stimulate economic growth and job creation within the continent.
Funding for the CDA will come directly from the Marine Foundation Trust in Japan, ensuring that the necessary resources are available to support these vocational training programs. This financial backing is crucial, as it allows for the implementation of structured and effective training courses that can make a tangible difference in the lives of the participants and their communities.
The initiative is set to benefit youth initiatives led by courageous young leaders, such as Mbaarak in Kenya, Belinda Boha in Sierra Leone, and DJDD in the Democratic Republic of Congo, led by Gulain M. Kafuana. These groups have been pioneering efforts to uplift their communities for years, often with little or no funds. Their success in making a positive impact despite financial constraints demonstrates the potential for even greater achievements with the support of the Marine Foundation and the CDA.
In summary, the creation of the Continental Development Agency for the Youth represents a significant step towards harnessing the potential of Africa’s youth. By providing vocational training and financial support, the CDA aims to empower young people to become instrumental in the development of their communities and the broader African economy, fulfilling the Marine Foundation’s vision of a continent where youth are active contributors to societal growth and prosperity.
