In the coastal region of southwestern Benin, Eco-Benin is working to restore and protect degraded mangrove areas while uplifting local communities. This initiative addresses ecological degradation, revitalizes fisheries, and fosters sustainable livelihoods. Gautier Amoussou, National Coordinator of Eco-Benin, shares his insights into the project and the motivations driving this impactful work.
The project is centered around Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve – MAB UNESCO, site of the Bouche du Roy, a 10,000-hectare protected area encompassing mangroves, lagoons, and marine ecosystems. Once vibrant with abundant fish stocks, this region faced ecological challenges over the past three decades due to dam construction upstream on the Mono River. Sedimentation, combined with deforestation of mangroves for firewood, led to a 30% loss of mangrove cover and a steep decline in fish populations. “The communities here rely heavily on fishing for their livelihoods,” explains Gautier. “But as the mangroves weakened, so did the fish stocks. Fishermen began migrating to other countries like Nigeria, Congo and Gabon in search of better opportunities. It became clear that we needed to act.”
Fifteen years ago, Eco-Benin began working with local communities restoring the mangroves and establish sustainable practices. By 2016, the Bouche du Roy Reserve was officially created as a community-managed protected area. Gautier stresses the importance of local involvement: “The reserve is managed by the communities themselves. We have a local management team, rules, and a comprehensive plan that ensures their active participation and ownership.”
Beyond conservation
The Eco-Benin project goes beyond ecological restoration, and addresses social challenges such as unemployment and the empowerment of women. Gautier shares, “In each of the 20 villages within the reserve, women’s groups have been organized to lead activities like mangrove planting, savings schemes, and facilitating small loans. These initiatives not only support conservation but also strengthen the social fabric of the community.” Recognizing the need for alternative livelihoods, Eco-Benin established a training center offering programs in tourism, entrepreneurship, and sustainable farming. Each year, scholarships are provided to young people in the region, helping them gain skills and employment opportunities. “This area has great potential for tourism. We are working to create job opportunities that align with the region’s strengths and preserve its natural beauty.”, says Gautier.
Blue carbon
To scale the restoration efforts, Eco-Benin and Treevive are developing the blue carbon component of this project, which leverages the carbon sequestration potential of mangroves. This not only contributes to climate change mitigation but also generates funding to support local communities and conservation activities. An example of this is the intention to renovate some wooden bridges that connects villages to facilitate trade and increase the safety of local residents.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Overpopulation and limited job opportunities put pressure on the reserve’s resources. Gautier acknowledges the need for continuous innovation and support. The biggest challenge is creating sustainable livelihoods for young people. Eco-Benin is committed to finding solutions that address both ecological and social needs.
Inspiring change
Gautier expresses pride in the project’s achievements. “Seeing women and young people take the lead in conservation and livelihood activities is inspiring. This project is about more than restoring mangroves; it’s about restoring hope and resilience in our communities.”
Treevive’s partnership with Eco-Benin is a good example of collaboration to drive meaningful change. By combining ecological restoration with social impact, this project serves as a model for sustainable development. As the project continues to grow, we invite investors and supporters to join in building a brighter future for Benin’s coastal communities.