Carbon know-how through strong partnership
Carbon-offset initiatives require a strong scientific basis to determine carbon stocks and baselines. Mikoko Pamoja benefits from a strong partnership with the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) that conducted research to deliver necessary baseline data for the carbon offset project.
KMFRI now provides technical support during the implementation of Mikoko Pamoja. A member of KMFRI seats in the Mikoko Pamoja steering committee in order to report on monitoring results. An annual report is then submitted to Plan Vivo Organization detailing project activities undertaken. KMFRI’s position is critical in determining the accuracy of the information submitted to Plan Vivo.
- KMFRI's strong presence in the project site Gazi Bay: The Institute has been working in mangrove research since the 1980s and has a field station in Gazi village
- Strong technical know-how and long-term involvement with national and international networks (Earthwatch Institute, International Blue Carbon Scientific Working Group)
- Resident permanent staff and students at the KMFRI Gazi station
- Strong partnership with the local community during development and implementation of mangrove activities
- Carbon-offset initiatives require a strong scientific basis to determine carbon stocks and baselines
- Good relationship between scientists, government agencies, and communities is required for project sustainability
- Transparency is required in all stages of carbon project development. This ensures that there are no over-expectations among the community even when the carbon prices fluctuate
- Benefit sharing has to be pre-determined during the project development phase. This ensures onward harmony among project partners
- The strong partnership between KMFRI and Gazi community has enabled quick realization of carbon benefits
- Mikoko Pamoja has local and international partners such as Earthwatch Institute (UK), Napier Edinburgh University (Scotland), who have played a pivotal role in linking community to carbon buyers