A groundbreaking nature-based solution to tackle wastewater pollution was launched in Mombasa’s Mikindani area on Friday, marking a significant step toward restoring Tudor Creek and safeguarding Kenya’s coastal ecosystems.
The Mikindani Constructed Wetland, a collaborative project spearheaded by the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the European Union-funded Go Blue Programme, promises to improve public health, enhance water quality, and bolster marine conservation.
The project, launched by Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho, uses locally sourced vegetation like Typha grass, Cattail, and Vetiver grass to filter and clean wastewater.
By reducing untreated effluent draining into Tudor Creek – a vital ecosystem supporting mangroves, and marine life – the wetland addresses long-standing environmental challenges in Mikindani.
“The construction of this plant marks a significant milestone in reducing sewage pollution, with direct positive impacts on public health and marine conservation,” Joho said during the launch.
“In light of its success, I have directed KMFRI to use this facility as a model for replication in other areas,” he added.
CS Hassan Joho and French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet inspect the Mikindani Constructed Wetland during its launch on 9th May. (Photo: Hassan Joho/X)
The ceremony, attended by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, EU Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger, French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet, and other dignitaries, highlighted the power of partnerships in driving sustainable development.
The Go Blue Programme, jointly implemented by UNEP and UN-Habitat, focuses on integrated land-sea planning to connect people, cities, and the ocean.
“This milestone, made possible through the generous support of the European Union and in collaboration with UNEP and KMFRI, is a shining example of what we can achieve through innovation, partnerships, and community-driven solutions,” Nassir said.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir addresses attendees at the launch, calling the wetland a "groundbreaking nature-based solution" for sustainable wastewater management. (Photo: Abdulswamad Nassir/X)
The wetland builds on the success of a similar UNEP-led project, the Shimo la Tewa Constructed Wetland.
Designed to be community-accessible, the Mikindani initiative ensures long-term environmental and social benefits while supporting several Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation, good health, climate action, and life below water.
“At UNEP, we are fully committed to addressing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution, and waste,” said Sinikinesh Beyene, acting Head of the Marine and Freshwater Branch, UNEP Ecosystems Division.
She added: “Projects like the Mikindani Constructed Wetland exemplify how innovative nature-based solutions can mitigate environmental challenges and restore vital ecosystems.”
EU Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger (left) and French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet (right) during the launch. (Photo: EUinKenya/X)
The European Union, a key funder, emphasized its commitment to Kenya’s blue economy.
“We believe there is no green without blue and no blue without green. By combining policy development with practical implementation and bringing in the expertise of UNEP and UN-Habitat, we have been able to achieve results that would not have been possible otherwise.” Geiger stated.
Betsy Njagi, Principal Secretary for Blue Economy and Fisheries underscored the broader implications of the initiative. “Marine conservation is not just about saving sea creatures; it’s about protecting the health of our blue spaces and our future,” she said.
“This project shows how research, innovation, and partnerships can tackle Kenya’s environmental and socio-economic challenges, ensuring a cleaner, healthier Mikindani and setting a model for sustainable wastewater management.”
PS Betsy Njagi speaking during the launch of the Mikidani Constructed Wetland Project in Mombasa. (Photo: Betsy Njagi/X)
Local leaders, including Jomvu MP Badi Twalib, hailed the project as a game-changer for the region.
“This innovative wastewater treatment project, located right here in Jomvu Constituency, is a game-changer in promoting sustainable development and protecting our marine environment,” Twalib said.
“It stands as a bold step toward improving sanitation, conserving natural resources, and enhancing the well-being of our people,” the legislator added.
The Mikindani Constructed Wetland is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar projects across Kenya, with Joho calling for its replication to address sewage pollution nationwide.
