When the Green Meets the Blue: 10 Women Transform Mangroves into Climate-Smart Livelihoods
In Kondo–Zinga, Bagamoyo District, a women-led group of 10 members from the Kukupesa Climate Smart Group is turning mangrove conservation into a sustainable livelihood opportunity through climate-smart beekeeping.
Implemented by Smart Youth Effort for Advanced Community (SMART Youth), the initiative is delivered in collaboration with Tanzania Forest Service (TFS), Bagamoyo District Council, and local coastal communities, under the Ocean Community Empowerment and Nature Program funded by UK International Development. TFS provides key technical guidance on mangrove and beekeeping integration.
Key Impact
- 👩🏽🌾 10 women empowered in climate-smart beekeeping
- 🐝 5 commercial beehives introduced, replacing old inefficient hives
- 🌿 Improved mangrove conservation practices supported through pollination and awareness
- 👥 Over 600 people reached through GEDSI-focused community campaigns
- 🌊 District-wide awareness raised on the importance of mangroves and coastal ecosystems
Transformation
Previously, the group relied on poorly designed hives that were easily disturbed by insects, leading to low honey production and limited income. Today, with improved commercial beehives, technical support from TFS, and capacity building, the women are building stronger, more productive, and climate-resilient livelihoods.
Beyond beekeeping, the women are now local champions of mangrove conservation and climate awareness, leading community dialogues on GEDSI and sustainable coastal resource use.
The Bigger Picture
This initiative shows how women, when equipped with skills and tools, can restore ecosystems while transforming livelihoods. When the green meets the blue, communities thrive and nature recovers.