MERA Project (Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration Alliance)
Location: OKO-NLA, ILAJE (Pilot Phase)
The MERA – Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration Alliance Project represents a strategic, community-driven initiative focused on restoring degraded mangrove ecosystems while strengthening local livelihoods and climate resilience in coastal communities.
Implemented in Okonla, Ilaje, this pilot phase demonstrates a scalable model for ecosystem restoration through collaboration, sustainability, and local participation.
Key Achievements
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Mangrove Restoration:
The project successfully restored 50 hectares of mangrove forest within the Okonla community. This effort contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation, shoreline protection, and carbon sequestration.
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Livelihood Support – Sustainable Aquaculture:
As part of its integrated approach, the project facilitated the introduction and handover of floating fishing cages and modern aquaculture practices to selected community participants. Beneficiaries were chosen based on demonstrated interest and commitment, including a token contribution toward fish feed procurement for fingerlings. This ensures ownership, sustainability, and long-term economic benefit.
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Community Collaboration and Resource Mobilization:
The success of the project was driven by strong community partnerships. Neighboring communities, particularly Zion Pepe, played a vital role by supplying mangrove propagules, which were used to establish nurseries and develop the full restoration site. This collective effort highlights the importance of local knowledge and inter-community cooperation in environmental projects.
The project successfully restored 50 hectares of mangrove forest within the Okonla community. This effort contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation, shoreline protection, and carbon sequestration.
As part of its integrated approach, the project facilitated the introduction and handover of floating fishing cages and modern aquaculture practices to selected community participants. Beneficiaries were chosen based on demonstrated interest and commitment, including a token contribution toward fish feed procurement for fingerlings. This ensures ownership, sustainability, and long-term economic benefit.
The success of the project was driven by strong community partnerships. Neighboring communities, particularly Zion Pepe, played a vital role by supplying mangrove propagules, which were used to establish nurseries and develop the full restoration site. This collective effort highlights the importance of local knowledge and inter-community cooperation in environmental projects.
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