Management Issues & Challenges

• Poorly developed ecotourism infrastructure and facilities
• Limited marketing and promotion of ecotourism attractions
• Human–wildlife conflict affecting community livelihoods
• Low capacity of community groups to manage ecotourism ventures
• Inadequate wildlife monitoring and protection
• Encroachment and habitat disturbance from unsustainable activities
• Lack of clear ecotourism product development strategies

Programme Objectives

1. To promote sustainable ecotourism as an alternative livelihood for local communities.
2. To enhance wildlife protection through community involvement and strengthened surveillance.
3. To reduce human–wildlife conflict through mitigation and awareness strategies.
4. To develop and diversify ecotourism products within the mangrove ecosystem.
5. To strengthen conservation education among local communities and visitors.

Key Management Actions

• Map and develop ecotourism sites such as boardwalks, nature trails, and birdwatching points
• Train community groups to manage ecotourism enterprises and tour guiding
• Promote mangrove-based ecotourism including canoe tours and cultural experiences
• Strengthen wildlife surveillance and monitoring systems
• Develop human–wildlife conflict mitigation measures
• Collaborate with KWS, KFS, KMFRI, and county government to promote ecotourism standards
• Promote conservation education targeting youth, schools, and visitors
• Support community-led ecotourism initiatives through grants and capacity building