Women restore mangrove forests to secure livelihoods in Senegal
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Women in the Mar Lodj area of Senegal are working to restore mangrove forests because the health of the ecosystem directly affects their income and food sources.
Mariama Diome, president of the local women’s union of Marsalou, explained that “the sea is our business,” highlighting the close connection between the island communities and their environment. The women noticed declining resources impacting their ability to process fish and other seafood, prompting them to take action.
On September 9, 2026, women from four islands, Marlodj, Marsolou, Mar Lodj, Marouane, and Marfafoko, had already planted 12,740 mangrove seedlings. This restoration work aims to strengthen their resilience in the face of climate change and the economic impacts of the Sangomar oil field development. The NGO SINDEV supports this effort, recognizing that the mangrove provides breeding grounds for fish and shellfish the women rely on.
This year, the women also focused on reintroducing Avicennia africana, a mangrove species that helps combat increasing salinity. They carefully collect seeds, grow seedlings in nurseries protected from crabs, and then replant them. Early signs of regeneration are already encouraging, with women reporting a return of previously dwindling resources. They believe continued restoration will secure resources for future generations.
