When selecting the delegation from Saint-Martin Island to Tioman Island, we made sure to have representatives from local government and community. Local government representatives build ownership of the project activity and are then keen to support and guide the work in their area of jurisdiction. It also helps to formalize the adoption of new protocols. 

Regarding coral reef conservation, a local champion from Saint Martin Island community was trained in the reef check methodology. He successfully completed the certification in only 2 days, because he was already an excellent diver, - he is an underwater photographer -, and already knows coral and fish species identification. This training was for him a way to validate his existing competences, and gain access to a clear methodology that makes knowledge transfer to others easier.

Turtle hatchery management was not entirely new for local community members and authorities. Previous projects on Saint Martin Island had supported successful turtle conservation activities funded by UNDP. The Department of Environment also implements turtle hatchery initiatives during the breeding season. 

In Tioman, Juara Turtle Project, the host organization who trained the Bangladeshi delegation, formed by government officials and a local community champion, shared their turtle hatchery protocol. This protocol was discussed with Saint-Martin Island turtle conservation group members and adopted to upgrade their practices. 

The learnings from the site visit were easily transferrable, even if the learning exchange only lasted for a week, because Saint Martin Island’s stakeholders had already a good knowledge and practice of turtle hatchery. It was only a matter of adding some structure and process to their current practice. Even though, compared to Tioman, there are species-level differences; in Bangladesh, the Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) is predominant, whereas in Tioman, the Green (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) turtles are more common. And there is a difference in the average temperature range. 

Besides, they also learned how to protect turtle eggs from predation, especially by feral dogs, the biggest threat for turtle conservation on the island. This latter aspect came as a bonus, as it was not expected to be part of the learnings.

In collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, and Kenyatta University, a research study was initiated to quantify the impact of ICS on pollution reduction, health outcomes, and deforestation. The study aims to assess social implications related to health and savings, evaluate the contribution of efficient stoves to mangrove conservation, analyse the role of fuelwood in carbon emissions at both county and national levels, and provide actionable recommendations for short- and mid-term strategies at national and local levels.

Following the successful pilot in Matondoni village, there has been high demand and acceptance of the ICS, with neighboring villages and organisations seeking support. As part of the upscaling effort, 41 cookstoves were built in Pate village including Pate Primary School and involved an additional 13 trainees. 

Further, the County Government of Lamu partnered with Wetlands International to install 10 cookstoves in five wards on a pilot basis. This initiative aligns with the County's Integrated Development Plan 2023-2027, which highlights the significance of cookstoves in enhancing energy efficiency. A total of 3,010 people continue to benefit from these cookstoves in Lamu.

Cookstove installation was done on a cost-sharing basis, with the community contributing sand and cement. This arrangement fostered a sense of ownership and encouraged better care and maintenance, increasing the cookstoves' durability and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, training community members on installation and maintenance ensured quick access to support, further enhancing ownership and acceptance.

A skilled technician with wide experience was engaged to design and produce affordable, accessible improved cookstoves. The implementation process involved the community, training eight men and seven women from Matondoni to install and maintain the cookstoves. Additionally, all beneficiaries received basic training on optimal usage and maintenance to ensure long-term sustainability.

In collaboration with local partners, we identified vulnerable areas and conducted a survey in Matondoni village, Lamu, where traditional cookstoves are common. The survey assessed cooking needs and methods while raising awareness about the benefits of ICS for both mangroves and human wellbeing. Two cookstoves were initially set up to gather feedback from end-users over two months on their experiences, benefits, and challenges. Following this pilot, an additional 51 cookstoves were built to inform scaling efforts in other areas of Lamu.

A scoping survey was conducted along Kenya’s coast to identify efficient cookstove models, assess their sustainability, and recommend the best options for adoption. This survey provided insights into the need for cookstoves, suitable designs, and market considerations for effective community interventions.