ECOS: Blue Economy and Coastal Ecosystem in Kenya

Dear Donors,

We are excited to share an update as the ECOS Project reaches its conclusion. All planned activities are now complete, and we are finalizing the collection and analysis of data to measure the project’s full impact. Early indications already show significant positive outcomes, with strengthened environmental awareness, practical skills, and community engagement among students, teachers, and local residents.

The project has engaged 944 students across six schools in Kilifi County through environmental and 4K clubs (for climate clubs). Students participated in hands-on activities including the creation of school gardens, rainwater collection systems, composting with Posidonia, and seed planting. Workshops led by local nutritionists and environmental specialists helped students understand food security, nutrition, biodiversity, and waste management. Teachers received capacity-building training to enhance their skills and integrate these topics into their curricula.

Community engagement extended to the surrounding creek villages, where approximately 500 residents benefited from sessions on food security, water management, and environmental protection. Students also participated in beach clean-ups and Posidonia collection, with plastic waste recycled by Ocean Sole and Posidonia used to enrich school garden compost, promoting sustainable resource use.

Creative educational activities complemented the environmental work. At-risk students produced bilingual comic books and participated in theater performances, sharing their learning with families and peers. Libraries and educational spaces were created in six schools, and playgrounds and activity areas were improved to support social learning and intercultural exchange. School twinning activities connected Kenyan and Italian students, with 41.7% of participants developing greater awareness of global citizenship. Twelve students at risk of dropping out were supported to continue their education. Preliminary results show that over 30% of students improved their knowledge on environmental topics, all six schools implemented climate mitigation practices, and food security improved by 40% thanks to school garden harvests. At least 70% of students and community participants increased their understanding of the importance of environmental protection and sustainable practices.

The ECOS Project has successfully strengthened the role of schools and communities in promoting environmental education, sustainability, and global citizenship. These achievements reflect the dedication of all participants and the crucial support of donors like you, helping to inspire lasting change for future generations.

Thank you!