Saving the Turtles: A Youth-Led Revolution in Kilifi

By Antony Mutonyi

Kilifi, Kenya: Amidst the coastal paradise of Kilifi County, Kenya, an inspiring initiative has taken root. A dedicated group of young environmentalists, driven by their passion, have come together to safeguard the endangered sea turtles that grace their shores.

This is the story of Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project (MMTCP) a youth-led NGO committed to conserving these beautiful creatures and educating their community.

In 2006, a group of young people, fueled by their love for marine life and their shared concern over the declining sea turtle population, founded Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project. With a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the survival of sea turtles, their mission centered around three pillars of educating the public, raising awareness, and engaging in practical conservation initiatives.

Recognizing the crucial role of education in conservation, the Project embarked on an ambitious outreach program targeting local schools and community groups. Under the leadership of Chairman Michael Mwarua, the project developed engaging workshops and educational resources to underscore the significance of sea turtles in marine ecosystems. The curriculum emphasized the threats confronting these turtles, including plastic pollution, poaching, and habitat destruction.

In local schools the “Turtle Education,” featured talks from Kenya Fisheries Service (KFS) and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), hands-on activities like beach clean-ups, and the creation of turtle-themed art projects. These initiatives fostered a sense of responsibility and connection among the younger generation.

To widen their effect, MMTCP utilized various media platforms. They created engaging social media campaigns, short reels, and infographics explaining the plight of sea turtles and the steps individuals could take to help. 

James Baya, who is the secretary of the group, says that by sharing stories of local sea turtles and the challenges they face, they hoped to inspire both locals and tourists to participate in conservation efforts.

“Despite their passion and commitment, the Mtwapa Maweni Turtle Conservation Project encounters several challenges, the most pressing being financial constraints. The group relies heavily on donations and sponsorships, but funding has often been inconsistent. The group grapples with securing enough resources for their programs, purchasing necessary equipment, and covering operational costs” says James Baya.

Additionally, “We face logistical challenges such as organizing large-scale beach clean-ups and maintaining the equipment needed for turtle monitoring and rescue operations. The lack of a dedicated office space also hinders their ability to manage and coordinate activities effectively” says Baya.

The MMTCP’s persistent dedication has propelled sea turtle conservation forward. Their impactful efforts have heightened awareness, emphasizing the critical need to safeguard these magnificent creatures. By successfully reducing local littering and fostering an enhanced sense of community involvement in beach clean-ups, MMTCP has paved the way for a cleaner and more sustainable ecosystem.

The Program has made a significant impact on the conservation of sea turtles through youth-led initiatives. The MMTCP’s journey demonstrates that with passion, perseverance, and community support, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome in protecting our planet’s valuable wildlife. Their story serves as a testament to the power of youth-led initiatives in making a tangible difference in their communities.