Sea Turtle Conservation

Sea turtles are among the most iconic and endangered species in the world. Along Kenya’s coast, these majestic creatures face severe threats from illegal poaching, habitat loss, pollution, bycatch in fishing gear, and climate change. All five species found in Kenyan waters are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) and are either endangered or critically endangered under the IUCN Red List.

COBEC has prioritized sea turtle conservation through a community-driven and multi-pronged strategy aimed at protecting turtles throughout their life cycle.

Sea turtle nesting
Turtle release

Our key focus areas include:

  • Protection of nesting beaches: We patrol key beaches to identify and protect nesting turtles and their eggs. Identified nests are monitored until hatchlings emerge and are guided safely to the sea.
  • Catch-release programme: COBEC works with artisanal fishermen to rescue turtles accidentally caught in fishing nets. With the help of trained turtle attendants, rescued turtles are recorded, tagged, and released back into the ocean.
  • Habitat health and restoration: We protect and restore near-shore environments such as seagrass beds and coral reefs, which are critical for turtle foraging and breeding.
  • Community engagement and awareness: We conduct targeted campaigns to change local attitudes and build pride around turtle conservation, often using storytelling, theatre, and school engagement.
  • Research and data collection: All nesting and rescue data is systematically recorded to track trends and inform policy and conservation planning.
Community turtle conservation event

This integrated approach has led to the rescue and release of hundreds of turtles, a reduction in nest poaching incidents, and a growing sense of community ownership in turtle protection. Our goal is to ensure that sea turtles can continue to thrive along the Kenyan coast, now and for generations to come.