Skål Kenya Coast Leads by Example
Mtwapa Creek, Kenya – 12 April 2025
One Skål club has shown how local initiatives can drive real environmental change in a world where climate action can no longer be delayed. On Saturday, Skål International Kenya Coast, with the active involvement of its Executive Committee, led a powerful mangrove restoration effort at Mtwapa Creek, just north of Mombasa. The result: 3,000 new mangrove trees planted — and a strong message sent to the global tourism community.
This project was more than just a tree-planting day. It was a community-led, multi-stakeholder action for the planet, powered by Skål’s values of sustainability, collaboration, and education.
“Mangroves are more than just trees. They are guardians of our coastlines, nurseries for marine life, and natural carbon sinks. We’re proud to call this our signature sustainability project,” said a spokesperson from Skål Kenya Coast.
🌿 Why Mangroves Matter
Mangroves play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems. Their complex root systems reduce erosion, buffer shorelines against storm surges, and support rich biodiversity. Even more importantly, they are among the most effective ecosystems for carbon sequestration, capturing and storing up to four times more carbon than tropical rainforests.
Mangrove restoration is thus not just an environmental action but a climate mitigation strategy, a defense for coastal communities, and a lifeline for marine ecosystems.
“We chose mangroves because they offer environmental, social, and economic value,” explained a member of the club’s sustainability team. “And we make sure to purchase seedlings directly from local communities, empowering them while protecting nature.”
🤝 Partnerships that Matter
The success of this initiative reflects the power of partnerships. Jambojet, which generously funded 2,000 seedlings, and the Kenya Revenue Authority, which contributed another 1,000, led the way.
Also supporting this green mission were trusted local partners: Premier Hospital, AAR Healthcare, Sarova Whitesands, Travellers Beach Hotel, Severin Sea Lodge, Samphire Hotel, and community members, including Marine Women Group, Seaview Primary School students, and Skål friends from abroad — including Mr. Bruno from Belgium.
“Sustainability is not something we talk about — it’s something we do,” said a representative from Jambojet. “We’re committed to greening Kenya through initiatives that bring people and purpose together.”
The club also made sure future generations were included, teaching schoolchildren about environmental stewardship and the importance of caring for their surroundings — a true investment in both the planet and the mindset of tomorrow’s leaders.
💧 A Refreshing Effort
Working under the African sun calls for hydration, and Aquelle Water ensured all participants stayed refreshed throughout the day, showing once again how every contribution, large or small, matters when it comes to climate action.
🌍 A Model for Global Skål
At Skål Europe, we see this as a shining example of how local Skål clubs can lead meaningful, measurable action. By highlighting these initiatives, we can inspire others, create synergies, and encourage the global Skål community to join forces across borders for a shared sustainable future.
“Local action with global visibility — this is where Skål Europe plays a vital role,” said Dr. Franz Heffeter, President of Skål Europe. “We want to amplify the voices of those who are not just talking about sustainability, but implementing it in powerful, community-centered ways.”
Skål Kenya Coast’s mangrove restoration is more than just a project — it’s a symbol of what happens when tourism professionals unite not only to grow business, but to protect and nurture the environments and communities they work in.
Happiness – Good Health – Friendship – Long Life – SKÅL!
If your club is working on a sustainability project, Skål Europe is here to support, promote, and celebrate it. Let’s build a greener future — together.
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