Mangrove Planting in Lamu: 5,000 Trees and a Rugby Challenge

Introduction: A Day of Action and Unity

Mangrove Planting in Lamu County, the Green Pamoja Initiative brought together communities, partners, and youth for an unforgettable event that combined environmental action with sports for social change. From planting 5,000 mangroves at Mea Beach to hosting a spirited rugby tournament at Tiger Pitch, the day showcased how partnerships and community efforts can transform both landscapes and lives.

This event was made possible through collaboration with Waridi Foundation, Asali Mikoko, Kenya Scout Association, Ujamaa, Young Muslim Association, and many volunteers who share the vision of building sustainable environments and sustainable livelihoods.

Planting 5,000 Mangroves at Mea Beach

The day began at Mea Beach, where participants worked hand-in-hand to restore degraded coastal ecosystems. Mangroves are vital for protecting coastlines, storing carbon, and supporting marine biodiversity, and in a single morning, over 5,000 seedlings were planted.

Peter Mwangi, Founder and CEO of Green Pamoja Initiative, highlighted the significance of the day:

“We are operating in five counties in Coast, plus Makueni. Our main objective is to ensure sustainable environments and livelihoods for communities. Today, we planted 5,000 mangroves, and now we are here at the field overseeing the rugby challenge.”

The planting brought together school groups, scouts, women, and youth leaders. It was more than a conservation effort, it was an act of unity and resilience.

Daniel Mema Mangelu, Lamu West Youth Leader and member of the Kenya Scout Association, reflected:

“Nimefurahia siku hii sana. Tumepanda zaidi ya miti 5,000 na tumejifunza umuhimu wa miti katika maisha yetu. Vijana tuna nafasi kubwa ya kuokoa mazingira yetu.”

The activity reinforced the message that tree planting is not just about restoring forests, but about securing futures.

Rugby at Tiger Pitch: Sports Meets Sustainability

In the afternoon, the action shifted to Tiger Pitch in Mpeketoni Town, where the Lamu Rugby Sevens Challenge unfolded. Organized in partnership with Waridi Foundation, the tournament created a bridge between sports, youth engagement, and environmental action.

Kombo Ramadhan, a local youth and member of the Young Muslim Association, shared his thoughts:

“Mgeni njoo, mwenyeji apone. Today we have seen how trees and sports can bring us together. We welcome Green Pamoja for opening our eyes to protecting our environment.”

The rugby games created excitement, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose among young people. As they played, the lessons from the morning’s planting lingered: every action counts in building a resilient future.

Partners and Collaboration

The day’s success was the result of strong partnerships. Waridi Foundation led the rugby initiative, while Asali Mikoko and Ujamaa supported mangrove planting. The Kenya Scout Association mobilized youth volunteers, and the Young Muslim Association added their voice to the cause.

Together, these organizations proved that collaboration is key to addressing deforestation, climate change, and lack of youth opportunities.

Challenges and Community Voices

Despite the success, several challenges were raised. Community leaders spoke candidly about financial constraints for seedling production, limited government support, and the need for stronger partnerships.

One youth leader voiced the difficulty:

“Unambiwa uzalishe miche milioni moja na hupewi pesa ya kuzalisha hiyo miche. Tunahitaji msaada kutoka kwa mashirika na wadau ili kazi iendelee.”

This plea highlighted the need for continued investment and donor support to keep reforestation projects sustainable.

Looking Ahead: Planting Hope, Growing Change

The event closed with a clear message: Green Pamoja’s work is just beginning. From coastal mangrove restoration to inland tree planting and youth empowerment through sport, the movement is spreading across five counties in Coast and Makueni.

Sir Enocent , Director of IT and Media at Green Pamoja Initiative, summed it up:

“Today is about more than planting trees—it’s about planting hope, resilience, and a greener future for Lamu.”

Conclusion: From Seed to Sport, We Grow Together

From Mea Beach’s mangrove planting to Tiger Pitch’s rugby matches, the day reflected what Green Pamoja stands for: community-driven action, partnerships, and resilience.

5,000 mangroves now stand as living proof of hope, and the rugby tournament as a reminder that youth can be champions both on the field and in protecting the planet.

Green Pamoja calls on volunteers, partners, and donors to join this journey of transformation. Together, we can ensure that from seed to shade, and from sport to sustainability, we grow together.