In a bid to preserve coastal ecosystems and marine biodiversity in Casamance, Wetlands International Afrique has set up an experimental mangrove restoration site in Kaléane village, Nyassia commune, within the Ufoyaal Kassa-Bandial Marine Protected Area (AMP). The initiative, part of the "Only One en Casamance" project funded by the organization, aims to address the degradation of the coastal vegetation belt crucial for protecting against coastal erosion, carbon absorption, and sustaining local socio-economic activities.
The project, which took place from October 20 to 22, 2026, involves a 1.5-hectare test site divided into five experimental blocks to compare the effectiveness of various intervention techniques. These include a control block for observation, seeding on ridges, direct sowing, ridges alone, and assisted natural regeneration. The scientific protocol focuses on two key mangrove species in West Africa: Avicennia germinans (black mangrove) and Laguncularia racemosa (white mangrove).
Local community involvement is central to the project's success. A total of 31 members from Kaléane were mobilized, trained, and will ensure continuous environmental monitoring of the plot. This approach not only empowers the local community but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the restoration efforts. By engaging local residents, Wetlands International Afrique and its partners aim to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the conservation of their natural resources.
The primary objective of the experiment is to identify the most effective technical approach that yields the highest rate of recovery and growth. This will enable the development of a model that can be scaled up and applied across the network of marine protected areas and bolongs in the Casamance region. The findings from this project will be crucial in informing large-scale mangrove restoration initiatives in the future.
The degradation of the coastal vegetation belt in Casamance has significant implications for the environment and local communities. Coastal erosion, loss of biodiversity, and decreased carbon sequestration are some of the consequences of mangrove degradation. By restoring these ecosystems, the project aims to enhance resilience to climate change, support marine life, and promote sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on these ecosystems.
Wetlands International Afrique's initiative in Kaléane is a collaborative effort involving local communities, conservation organizations, and funding agencies. The project's success will depend on continued collaboration and the sharing of knowledge and best practices in mangrove conservation. By working together, stakeholders can address the complex challenges facing coastal ecosystems and ensure the long-term health and sustainability of these vital environments.
According to Liboire SAGNA, the installation of the experimental site marks a significant milestone in the conservation efforts in Casamance. The project's outcomes will contribute to a better understanding of effective mangrove restoration techniques and inform strategies for scaling up conservation initiatives in the region. This, in turn, will help to protect the region's rich biodiversity and support the well-being of local communities.
Key points
- The project aims to identify the most effective technique for mangrove restoration.
- Local community involvement is crucial to the project's success.
- The initiative is part of the "Only One en Casamance" project funded by Wetlands International Afrique.
