Kaskazi Environmental Alliance (KEA) is a U.S. based not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive environmental education to East African communities. KEA was formed in response to the continued devastation of the marine/coastal regions of East Africa resulting from pollution, destructive fishing practices, and over-exploitation of natural resources exacerbated by a virtual lack of environmental awareness.
These combined threats have resulted in a severe decline in many marine species and an unprecedented degradation of critically important habitats, such as mangroves and coral reefs. The destruction of entire ecosystems has, in turn, undermined the well being of the local people.
These combined threats have resulted in a severe decline in many marine species and an unprecedented degradation of critically important habitats, such as mangroves and coral reefs. The destruction of entire ecosystems has, in turn, undermined the well being of the local people.
Our vision:
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Environmental awareness in East Africa, and globally, is essential to conserve, preserve, and restore the diverse coastal/ marine environments of East Africa. Through global collaboration and partnerships, we are confident that KEA can effect substantial positive change in environmental awareness and in the lives of the people of East Africa.
"With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you're connected to the sea. No matter where on Earth you live." |
We envision an informed and empowered citizenry that will advocate for conservation of East Africa’s unique marine/coastal biodiversity while providing for economic opportunity through sustainable resource use for generations to come. Although our efforts are local, focusing on East Africa, we envision a broad impact on the global environment.
"Bahari itatufikisha popote." |
OUR MISSION:
Our mission is to preserve and conserve all elements that make East Africa beautiful. We believe in the importance of preservation of both natural and cultural resources. We go forth these missions by building community through our various youth programs and community projects as well as working towards building bridges between cultures to help individuals help better understand their environment.
LEARN MORE:
Environmental threats:Threats to Mangroves, Coral Reefs, and Other Important Habitats
Thousands of acres of mangrove forests have been cut down to make way for development projects. Mangroves provide breeding grounds for fish, and ground support for critical habitats such as coral reefs. Indeed, mangrove deforestation threatens the sheer existence of many animal species-- including mangroves....
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bio-cultural impacts:Endangered Species, Endangered Societies
East African coastal communities have long recognized the inter-relationship between the land and the sea. Living at the interface between these two environments, the Swahili have had access to the resources of both these environments. Many of their traditions stem off their dependence on these resources. Environmental degradation and threats to endangered species threatens the livelihood and culture of these communities. KEA recognizes that there is need for global dialogue, understanding, and safeguarding of bio-cultural diversity in maritime communities....
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what we do:
Marine Science Programs
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Working With Local Communities (Bio-cultural diversity Conservation)
KEA works to improve environmental awareness to local communities through workshops and seminars on current coastal/marine environmental issues. KEA works with communities and and maritime institutions through a system of programs that reflect bio-cultural diversity (BCD). These programs include seminars and eco-tours that are meant to provide participants with hands-on knowledge, and foster a stronger connection with their environment.. |
Marine and Coastal Conservation
KEA undertakes research and conservation measures that directly contribute to environmental education in East Africa. These efforts are focused on the most serious environmental problems facing East Africa, while at the same time improving the livelihood and standard of living for local communities. KEA will maintain a close collaboration with other similar institutions around the world to undertake applied research related marine conservation...
