Protect our ocean & safeguard livelihoods in Kenya

We’re thrilled to share exciting progress from our work with Oceans Alive Kenya! This partnership continues to ignite transformative change along Kenya’s coastline, creating an empowering movement that is already inspiring neighboring communities.  

This current project focuses on a group of resilient, passionate women known locally as Mama Karangas—the fishmongers who play an essential yet often unrecognized role in feeding coastal communities. While the men head out to fish, the Mama Karangas handle, process, and sell the catch, contributing to food security and economic stability. Yet, these women are more than fishmongers; they are unsung heroes whose work sustains local economies and marine ecosystems alike. 

New Milestone Reached: 600 Mama Karanga Households Equipped! 

An incredible 600 Mama Karanga households have recently received essential fish processing equipment, marking a major leap forward in their mission to bring safe, high-quality seafood to the region. This equipment upgrade not only enhances food hygiene standards but also shines a light on the vital role these women play in nurturing both their community and the ocean that sustains it. 

Empowering Women to Lead Sustainable Change 

Mama Karangas now can step confidently into leadership roles within the Kuruwitu Co-managed Area, advocating for sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation. Equipped with new tools and training, these women can now better control the size, species, and quality of fish they accept, ensuring that only mature, sustainably sourced catches make it to market.  

In addition, training sessions on fish data collection and monitoring have introduced a new level of environmental stewardship, empowering the Mama Karangas to take an active role in protecting the reefs and oceans that are their livelihood. 

Building a Powerful Network for Knowledge Sharing 

One of the most exciting outcomes of this project has been the formation of a Mama Karanga network, where women connect to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices. Through this support system, they’re not only uplifting each other but also shaping the future of sustainable fishing in Kenya. As these women unite, they are beginning to serve as a model for communities all along the coast—and beyond!  

As Des Bowden, Co-Founder of Oceans Alive Kenya, puts it:  

“The Mama Karanga project is intrinsically linked to the health of the ocean. These women work tirelessly, often without recognition or reward, yet they are a vital link in coastal communities, driving positive change for both their environment and the people around them.” 

This incredible progress wouldn’t be possible without people like you. By standing with us, you’re championing women’s voices and investing in a sustainable, prosperous future for Kenya’s coastal communities. Together, we are creating a ripple effect that will preserve these ecosystems for generations to come. 

Thank you for being a part of this journey. With your support, the Mama Karangas are rising as guardians of Kenya’s coastline, safeguarding both their community and the ocean that sustains it. 

With Thanks,   

Pelorus Foundation