West Africa Blue is a community-based mangrove conservation and restoration project focusing on critical West African coastal ecosystems. Our projects seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding unplanned mangrove deforestation through mangrove forest conservation and the implementation of sustainable alternative livelihood activities.

Where feasible, our projects also seek to increase landscape carbon sequestration through afforestation, reforestation and/or revegetation of previously deforested mangrove areas.

Overall, our projects aim to protect these vital ecosystems, promote sustainable livelihoods for local communities, and mitigate climate change by harnessing the potential of high-integrity blue carbon credits.

West Africa Blue operates in various coastal areas across the West African region, with a primary focus on countries such as Sierra Leone.

West Africa Blue’s flagship project is located in Sierra Leone. The grouped project begins its first instance in Moyamba and Bonthe Districts, located south of the Western Peninsula in Sierra Leone. This area covers two of Sierra Leone’s four major mangrove estuaries, namely Yawri Bay and the Sherbro River Estuary. Blue is working to restore coastal ecosystems in these areas for the benefit of both local communities and the environment.

West Africa Blue’s second project is located in the Southern area of Guinea. Our in-country team is working extensively with government, communities, and other stakeholders to finalize our project area and complete pre-feasibility work.

A coastal ecosystem is a dynamic and interconnected system of life that exists along the interface of land and sea. It includes various habitats like mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs, which support diverse marine and terrestrial species and provide critical services to both nature and people.

An example of a coastal ecosystem is the Bonthe Sherbro River Estuary, situated in Sierra Leone, where West Africa Blue’s flagship project is located. The region hosts a vibrant coastal ecosystem characterised by diverse habitats including mangrove forests, estuarine waters, seagrass beds, intertidal mudflats, sandy beaches, and bird sanctuaries. This coastal ecosystem is of immense ecological, economic, and cultural significance. It supports biodiversity, sustains local livelihoods through fishing, and offers opportunities for recreation and bird-watching.

Preserving and sustainably managing this ecosystem is vital for both environmental conservation and the welfare of local communities.

Mangroves are unique coastal forests that grow in saline or brackish water along tropical and subtropical coastlines. They play a crucial role in coastal protection, stabilising shorelines and shielding communities from erosion and storm damage. Mangroves are biodiversity hotspots, supporting various marine and terrestrial species. These ecosystems are exceptional carbon sinks, sequestering CO2 and mitigating climate change. They also act as natural water filters, provide livelihoods for coastal communities including cooking and building materials, offer recreational opportunities, hold cultural significance, and enhance resilience against natural disasters. In summary, mangroves are essential for environmental health, biodiversity, climate mitigation, and the well-being of coastal communities.

High-integrity blue carbon credits are a reliable climate change mitigation strategy associated with coastal ecosystems. These credits are characterised by rigorous scientific verification, deep community engagement and ownership, and a strong focus on conservation. They ensure accurate measurement of carbon sequestration and emissions reduction, promoting transparency and accountability. Beyond carbon benefits, high-integrity blue carbon credits support climate adaptation, protect vital ecosystems, and are gaining recognition in carbon markets as a valuable tool for combating climate change while fostering sustainable development.

Free, prior and informed Consent (FPIC) is a fundamental principle that ensures local communities have the right to make decisions about projects or initiatives that may affect their lands, resources, and livelihoods. It involves meaningful consultation and the consent of affected communities before any project proceeds.

West Africa Blue seeks to improve the livelihoods of indigenous and local communities by involving them in project decision-making, providing sustainable income-generating opportunities such as beekeeping and cashew nurseries, and fostering the conservation of coastal ecosystems that are essential for their well-being.

West Africa Blue is committed to gender-sensitive and child-friendly practices in its projects. We work closely with communities to ensure the safety, inclusion, and empowerment of women and children, promoting their well-being and rights within project areas. Our alternative livelihood activities are often championed by women ambassadors in the local communities as their insight into the challenges faced by women, children, and other community members is crucial to finding community-driven solutions.

West Africa Blue collaborates with a diverse range of local and international partners, including government agencies, NGOs, community-based organisations, and academic institutions.

Our partners in Sierra Leone include: Green Collar, the Conservation Society of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry Of Environment.

Our partners in Guinea include the Government of Guinea, EcoAct, and various community-based organizations.

These partnerships are instrumental in achieving our shared goals of coastal ecosystem conservation and sustainable development.

We employ rigorous monitoring and evaluation techniques to measure the impact of our projects. This includes assessing changes in mangrove health, carbon sequestration, community livelihoods, and the overall well-being of project areas. We are committed to transparency and accountability in reporting our results.

Our team comprises experts in various fields, including environmental science, community development, climate finance, and advocacy. We are dedicated to implementing our projects with professionalism and a deep commitment to our mission.

You can stay informed about West Africa Blue's activities by visiting our website and following us on social media platforms. We regularly share updates, stories, and insights related to our projects and initiatives.