The UN Development Capital Fund and the Global Coral Reef Fund signed two new financing agreements meant to reduce wastewater pollution and promote sustainable fisheries, strengthening livelihoods.
Two new funding agreements to support the growth of coral reef-friendly enterprises in Kenya were announced by the United Nations Development Capital Fund (UNCDF) through the Global Coral Reef Fund (Gfcr).
The projects, which were signed in Nairobi, promote sustainable fishing methods and circular economy solutions in an effort to lessen the strain on marine ecosystems and boost coastal businesses.
Sanivation and Kumbatia, two Kenyan businesses aiming to lessen waste-related pollution and encourage sustainable fishing, are supported by the financing.
Both businesses now operate in the nation, and it is anticipated that they will extend their solutions to additional coastal regions, boosting the advantages for local residents and marine ecosystems.
An investment of up to US$250,000, contingent on performance and impact, will enable improved training, according to Pierre Bardoux, Director of the Gfcr at UNCDF.
Other topics discussed include traceability procedures, cold chains, and quality systems, including the proposed installation of monitoring systems for artisanal vessels.
Sanivation will be able to grow as a cutting-edge waste-to-energy conversion business thanks to a $540,000 investment from Gfcr–UNCDF.
Wastewater that would otherwise be released into the Malindi National Marine Park will now be treated using the company’s model, thanks to the arrangement.
They will be processed and turned into renewable energy briquettes for industrial use in delicate habitats.
The model’s extension aims to enhance Kenya’s circular economy, create local job opportunities, and reduce the burden of pollutants and nutrients in coastal waters.
Kumbatia Seafood will get a second investment from Gfcr–Uncdf to help replicate and extend its Lamu model to the reef-rich coastal region of Kwale.
The initiative aims to replace damaging, reef-dependent fishing methods with selective, reef-safe offshore pelagic fishing.
The organisation creates connections with higher-value markets for seafood that is responsibly produced, encourages the use of certain equipment, and instructs fishermen in sustainable methods.
By connecting access to premium markets to verified practices that are compatible with reef protection, the funding seeks to improve training, quality, cold chains, and traceability.