CEHRD organized a one-day hands-on training for 20 indigenous fisherfolks in Kono community

On Wednesday, July 26, 2023, the Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development (CEHRD) organized a one-day hands-on training for 20 indigenous fisherfolks comprising of 2 females and 18 males at the Kono creek in Kono community, Khana L.G.A, Rivers State. Three representatives from the council of chiefs including the secretary participated in the training.

The training was held to mark the commemoration of the International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystem 2023 with the theme, “Celebrating resilience, raising awareness, and embracing conservation efforts”. The 20 indigenous fisherfolks were trained on direct planting and management of mangrove nurseries, after which they established two nursery sites at the Kono creek and fisherfolk settlement respectively. While a volunteer will monitor the nursery site in the creek, the fisherfolks will monitor the second nursery site established in the fisherfolks settlement.

A few Nypa palms, which constitute major threat to mangrove conservation and restoration in the creek were cut down during the training. The fisherfolks were enjoined to sustain the practice and cut down more Nypa palms to help restore mangrove areas. CEHRD will continue its support to the fisherfolks to ensure that the practice is sustained.

The event was part of activities outlined under CEHRD’s ongoing project titled: Strengthening Community Protection of the Kono Mangrove Conservation Area with funding from Global Greengrants Fund.