LAWEN
LAWEN
On World Environment Day 2025, the Lamu Women Empowerment Network (LAWEN) made a big move to care for nature by leading a mangrove planting activity along the coast of Lamu. The event was guided by LAWEN’s Executive Director, Lynette Apondi Aloo, and brought together women, young people, and community leaders who all worked side by side to restore the mangrove forests. For many, it was more than just planting trees, it was about protecting their homes from strong waves, keeping sea life alive, and making sure the next generation grows up in a safer and greener environment. By coming together in this way, the community showed how unity and action can bring real change for both people and the planet.
Mangroves are more than just trees, they are lifelines for coastal communities. These special forests act like natural shields, protecting the shore from erosion, strong storms, and rising sea levels. They are also home to fish, crabs, and many other sea creatures that support families who depend on fishing for their daily bread. In Lamu, mangroves are especially important because they protect our coastline and keep the fishing industry alive, which many women rely on to earn a living. Our Executive Director, Lynette Apondi Aloo, who is also a mother of three, shared that as mothers we should be on the front line of protecting nature. She dreams of raising children who care about the sea and everything life has to offer. She encouraged girls and other women to take the lead in caring for the environment, because nature is all we have, and protecting it is the only way to secure the future of our children and grandchildren.
But today, mangrove forests are in danger because of deforestation, pollution, and the effects of climate change. To fight these challenges, the Lamu Women Empowerment Network (LAWEN) is involving women and girls in protecting and restoring mangroves. The goal is to give them the skills, confidence, and voice to lead climate action in their own communities and to show that when women take the lead, real change can happen.
The event brought together many participants, including women from LAWEN’s programs, young high school girls, local youth, and environmental partners. Together, they planted mangrove seedlings along degraded parts of the coast. The day was full of energy, teamwork, and a shared commitment to building a greener future. LAWEN’s women leaders also held workshops to explain the ecological and economic importance of mangroves, inspiring everyone to keep caring for the environment long after the event ended.
Volunteers teamed up, digging into the muddy shores to plant seedlings while sharing stories, laughter, and encouragement. The event also included fun and informative sessions on sustainable practices, like reducing plastic waste and supporting eco-friendly livelihoods. These sessions were designed to empower women and girls to take the lead in protecting the environment and become champions for a greener future.
Our mangrove planting initiative is just one part of LAWEN’s bigger effort to take care of the environment. By involving women, girls, and young community members, we are helping grow a new generation of leaders who will protect Lamu’s natural heritage. You can join us in this mission by donating to support more conservation projects, volunteering your time, or sharing our work so more people can get involved.
By working together, we can help Lamu’s mangroves grow strong, protect our environment, and give our communities the tools and knowledge to thrive for generations to come.