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Tech Innovations Bolster Marine Conservation Efforts in Kenya

Key project components include deploying underwater AI-powered cameras, photogrammetry systems, and advanced audio monitoring technologies.

by Brian Yatich
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Huawei, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) have launched an advanced technology project to enhance marine ecosystem monitoring at the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve.

The three-year Tech4Nature initiative represents a sophisticated approach to conservation, leveraging artificial intelligence and digital technologies to address critical challenges in marine protection.

Located on Kenya’s southern coast, the marine park faces significant conservation obstacles, including limited patrol capabilities, unmonitored marine areas, and increasing tourism pressures.

Key project components include deploying underwater AI-powered cameras, photogrammetry systems, and advanced audio monitoring technologies.

These tools will provide comprehensive data collection and analysis capabilities, focusing on critical marine species and ecosystem health.

“Technology allows us to understand and protect our marine resources more effectively,” explained Adan Kala from Kenya Wildlife Service. “We can now monitor areas previously difficult to access, gathering critical data both day and night.”

The project will specifically track:

  • Population dynamics of parrot fish
  • Coral reef substrate conditions
  • Seagrass coverage
  • Movements of endangered species like green turtles and bottlenose dolphins

Sophisticated AI algorithms will enable real-time identification of marine species and potential illegal fishing activities, allowing rangers to respond quickly to conservation threats.

Beyond technological implementation, the project includes community engagement programs to raise awareness about marine biodiversity and conservation strategies.

The ultimate goal is to secure IUCN Green List certification, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to protected area management.

 

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