Restore Corals for 400 Fisherfolks in Wasini

On December 16, 2025, a coral monitoring mission was conducted by the Africa Nature Organization (ANO) in collaboration with Wasini Beach Management Unit (BMU) at Wasini Island. This vibrant marine conservation area, designated by the local community, spans 3.2 km² and includes 27 coral restoration clusters aimed at enhancing biodiversity and rehabilitating degraded reefs. This ecological treasure is threatened by rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and destructive fishing practices, underscoring the importance of active community engagement in restoration efforts.

The mission was part of an ongoing effort to monitor the success of coral transplantations conducted on 13th August 2025, in which 31 coral fragments were carefully secured onto modular cement block structures in the ANO clusters. On this day, the team of nine members set out to assess several key indicators of coral health and survival. Monitoring was initially scheduled for September 2025, but logistical constraints necessitated the delay. Despite this, the anticipation for their findings was palpable as the team prepared for an underwater assessment of the corals' conditions.

Upon diving into the crystalline waters off Wasini, the team focused on several vital metrics: the survival rates of the transplanted corals, their health status, attachment to their substrates, and signs of growth. The initial survival assessment revealed an impressive 90% survival rate, with only three fragments lost, one of which was lost due to detachment. Coral health was similarly encouraging, with most displaying vibrant coloration and no signs of disease. The divers worked diligently, removing algae overgrowth using gentle scraping methods to ensure that the remaining corals received adequate light and nutrients for growth.

As the dives progressed, the team not only monitored physical characteristics but also noted the emergence of local fish populations around the coral clusters, a promising indicator of ecological recovery in the area. The immediate environment appeared to respond positively to the restoration efforts, hinting at the potential for a robust marine ecosystem. Discussions focused on the importance of ongoing community involvement in monitoring initiatives, highlighting how local knowledge and participation could enhance data collection and awareness of marine conservation.

In summary, the December 16, 2025, monitoring mission marked a significant milestone in the coral restoration program at Wasini Island. With a strong survival rate, healthy coral growth, and positive ecological indicators, the mission underscored the resilience of rehabilitated coral ecosystems when supported by effective community-driven initiatives. The results from this monitoring visit not only provided reassurance of the health of transplanted corals but also paved the way for future restoration activities, fostering hope for the long-term conservation of this essential marine habitat.

Links:

• Coral monitoring ission pictures taken on 16.12.2025
• Re-Establishing the Wasini Coral Photo Album

On 13th August 2025, a joint team from Africa Nature Organization (ANO) and Wasini community members conducted a monitoring mission and a new round of coral transplantation. The mission assessed the status of earlier restoration clusters and transplanted 30 new coral fragments onto the ANO cluster using disc attachments..

Monitoring revealed significant coral losses due to bleaching in 2024, with only two corals surviving from the 2023–2024 cohort. The mission confirmed both the urgent need to refine restoration techniques and the strong value of continued community involvement.

The Wasini communuty members did restock the nursery with fresh coral fragments in July 2025 as a trial to assess the survival rate of coral seedlings. These corals grew well with over 98% survival rate. This prompted the community to plan a joint coral transplant with ANO on the 13th August 2025. Five representatives from ANO and four community members particpated in this mission, with 5 members being women.

The objectives of monitoring the ANO coral cluster were to assess survival rates of previously transplanted corals, transplanting and replacing the dead corals. Divers inspected the cluster (17 blocks make a cluster) and counted two surviving corals out of the 57 planted in 2023, removed all the dead corals and cleaned the blocks. The women prepared cement discs for fragment attachment. The corals at the nursery were picked and transplanted to replace the dead corals. 30 corals were transplanted.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

1. Bleaching due to rising sea temperatures remains the biggest threat.
2. High cost and labor intensity of using blocks.
3. Lack of diving gear compels the team to rely on rented equipment for all restoration activities.

 2025 Plans and Recommendations

1. Scale up ANO’s restoration site to one acre.

2. Acquire diving gear and a underwater camera for monitoring.

3. Train ANO team members in diving skills.

4. Explore cost-effective techniques (stone-based frames vs. heavy cement blocks).

5. Integrate coral restoration with seagrass planting.

6. Promote and integrate coral restoration activities with ecotourism activities.

Appeal

Coral restoration in Wasini is a long-term, adaptive journey. The August 13, 2025 monitoring mission highlighted both the fragility of restored corals under climate stress and the resilience of the community’s commitment. Continued innovation in techniques, combined with strong local participation, will be key to safeguarding Wasini’s reefs for future generations.

The continued support, through donations from well-wishers, have assisted us establish the coral cluster. Our ambitious 2025 plan of restoring an acre of reef will require the support of more well wishers.

Links:

• Wasini Coral restoration Album