The Western Indian Ocean Mangrove Network (WIOMN), with support from the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) through the MASMA Grant (No: MASMA/Publications/2020/02), is leading a regional initiative to produce the book “Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration in the Western Indian Ocean Region: Lessons and Experiences towards the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030.” This publication compiles country-level case studies and practical field experiences on mangrove restoration across the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region. As the third volume in WIOMN’s mangrove series, it emphasizes real-world restoration practices, documenting successes, challenges, and lessons learned while identifying best practices to guide future interventions. The book is organized into four sections covering regional context, country case studies, alignment with global restoration frameworks, and policy scenarios. It contributes to the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) by supporting efforts to scale up restoration, enhance coastal resilience, and sustain livelihoods in mangrove-dependent communities.
The objective of this project is to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based publication that documents and analyzes mangrove restoration experiences across the Western Indian Ocean region. It aims to synthesize country-level case studies, identify effective restoration practices, and generate knowledge to inform science, policy, and implementation. The project also seeks to support regional policy development, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, and align mangrove restoration efforts with global priorities to enhance coastal resilience and protect community livelihoods.
Significant progress has been made through national workshops, peer review processes, and draft chapter development. However, the project has faced delays due to limited in-person collaboration among contributors. WIOMN is therefore seeking support to convene a physical meeting of editors and authors to finalize the publication. Once completed, the book will serve as a key regional knowledge resource for practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and coastal communities.