Mikoko Pamoja is creating a holistic model of development for the future. The community group has created the first mangrove carbon credit market in the world — meaning people or organizations pay for credits that are then used for mangrove restoration. So far, 117 hectares of mangroves have been protected. Mangroves are some of the most powerful natural mitigators of climate change in the world. Not only do mangroves absorb higher amounts of carbon than regular forests, they also clean local water and soil sources and protect against floods.
Mikoko Pamoja doesn’t stop there, either. With the funds raised through the carbon market, water access has been improved for 3,500 people and 700 school children have received school supplies.