The distribution and economic importance of the mangrove forests of Kenya

The mangroves form a group of higher plants which form a unique ecosystem, in that they grow in that part of land which is neither in demand for human settlement nor for agricultural use. They are also unique in their adaptation to both soil and water conditions. They are useful as a source of timber, for building poles, fuel, dyes, tannins, and are also known to provide both shelter and food for part of the marine fauna. Their value to the country, therefore, calls for proper utilization and conservation of all the available mangrove forests along the coast. The demand for forest products, including those from the mangroves in Kenya, is greater than the available resources from the forests, and unless proper and prompt planning for their protection is implemented our mangroves will soon be among the endangered ecosystems in the country.