Our Work

Malindi District is home to some of the richest and most diverse habitats in the whole of Kenya - considered internationally important for bird and marine conservation. These include; Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, which is the largest remnant of dry coastal forest in East Africa, Mida Creek is considered one of the most productive mangrove ecosystems on earth and of international importance for some of its bird species, the Sabaki River Mouth. Watamu Marine Park is home to coral reefs and sea grass beds where turtles, sting rays and over 100 species of fish can be found.

Despite the richness and diversity of local habitats in this area, an exploding population and desperately high levels of poverty are putting a huge strain on the delicate relationship between the local people and the surrounding environment.

A Rocha Kenya’s work focuses on four main areas:

  • Environmental Education: ARK’s Environmental Education Officer works with wildlife clubs in schools and trains local school teachers to coordinate and oversee educational activities and to teach about environmental care within existing National Curriculum activities.
  • Community Conservation: The Arabuko-Sokoke Schools and Eco-tourism Scheme (ASSETS) was set up by ARK in 2001. The scheme uses money generated from eco-tourism to provide secondary school “eco-bursaries” for local children and also contributes to nature conservation.
  • Research & Monitoring: ARK's scientific programme has focussed to date on avian studies with some work on invertebrates, benthic fauna, plants and mammals. Regular surveys are carried out on endangered species and in threatened habitats in order to better understand and therefore protect them. We have recently initited a marine research program and are currently recruiting volunteers for the 2012/2013 field.
  • Mwamba Field Study Centre: Mwamba provides simple and pleasant guest house type accommodation for all and any interested visitors, including birders, researchers and conservationists, and offers opportunities for volunteers to get involved as well as facilities for small workshops and seminars.

Environmental education, community conservation and the Mwamba Field Study Centre

Education Conservation Mwamba Field Study Centre

Avian research at A Rocha Kenya

Bird Ringing2 Crab Plover Bird Release

Marine research at A Rocha Kenya

Emperor Anglefish Coral Research starfish

Wider research at A Rocha Kenya

Millipede Flora3 Bat Study

Volunteers Needed

Sea Turtle

Volunteer with us and have an experience of a lifetime!

Support the Tana River Delta campaign

The Tana River Delta is under serious threat from sugarcane plantations and bio-fuels.  The Tana River Delta conservation lobby is fighting in the High Court to halt the decision.

For more details and to find out how you can help visit the Tana River Delta campaign site.
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