Equity Bank donates 20,000 mangrove seedlings in Mombasa

The initiative, held to mark the International Day for Biological Diversity, saw the bank donate 20,000 mangrove seedlings to support the restoration of degraded coastal ecosystems and enhance biodiversity conservation.

The exercise is part of Equity Group’s wider environmental sustainability agenda, which has so far seen the institution plant 45.5 million trees as part of efforts to combat climate change, restore ecosystems and support sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking during the exercise, Jacob Akida, Business Growth and Development Manager at Equity Changamwe Branch, said environmental conservation had become critical in safeguarding livelihoods and ecosystems amid the growing climate crisis.

“Environmental conservation is no longer optional, it is a necessity for safeguarding livelihoods, ecosystems, and future generations. Mangrove restoration plays a critical role in protecting coastal communities, preserving marine biodiversity, and mitigating the effects of climate change through carbon sequestration,” he stated. 

Mangrove forests are considered among the world’s most effective natural carbon sinks and play a key role in protecting coastlines from erosion, flooding and storm surges. The forests also provide breeding grounds for marine life that supports fishing communities and local economies.

Jane Wanyoike, Regional Coordinator under Equity Group Foundation’s Energy, Environment and Climate Change pillar, noted that collaboration with local communities remained key to achieving lasting environmental impact.

“Sustainable climate action requires strong collaboration between institutions and local communities. By working closely with Beach Management Units and other grassroots stakeholders, we are creating solutions that are both environmentally sustainable and community-driven,” she highlighted.

The initiative comes at a time when concerns over climate variability and extreme weather events continue to grow globally, including warnings of possible drought conditions linked to El Niño weather patterns.

Environmental experts have increasingly emphasized ecosystem restoration and afforestation as key strategies in strengthening climate resilience and adaptation efforts.

Virginia Njue, Chairlady of Kibarani Beach Management Unit, and Kennedy Otogo, Chairperson of Jomvu Beach Management Unit, welcomed the partnership, saying mangrove restoration was crucial in preserving marine ecosystems and supporting coastal livelihoods.

The Tudor Creek restoration exercise forms part of Equity Group’s broader sustainability agenda aimed at accelerating environmental conservation through strategic partnerships and community engagement while supporting national and global climate goals.