Mangroves: 1998 Publications

Author: Kaly, U.L. and Jones, G.P.
Title: Mangrove restoration: A potential tool for coastal management in tropical developing countries.
Publication: Ambio 27(8): 656-661, 1998.
© Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

Notes: An overview of the mangroves in the Eastern Africa Region is presented. This includes mangrove distribution, regeneration, uses, threats and management. The mangroves represent a rich and diverse living resource and are valuable to both the economy and protection of coastal environments. The most pressing conservation problems that need to be solved are the increase in tree cutting for poles, charcoal and fuelwood and reclamation for salt pans, agriculture and prawn aquaculture. There is a growing awareness of the importance and fragility of the mangrove ecosystems in Eastern Africa. There is also increased funding for mangrove research and management. Management experiences from Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique are discussed. Preparation of management plans, research collaboration, inventories of flora, fauna, and sediments, of the mangroves are in progress. These plans are the result of the institution of national and regional programs. Seminars and workshops are also being organized to increase the sharing of knowledge about mangroves in the region.