The Riches of Diani-Chale - an integrated approach to coastal area management.

Abstract

The Diani-Chale area on the South Coast of Kenya is endowed with many resources. These include a long white sandy beach, diverse coral reefs and mangroves, a rich cultural history and traditions including historic buildings and sacred forests (the Kayas), as well as abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife such as marine turtles, dolphins, colobus monkeys and unique birds and planes. The natural resources have provided livelihoods for local communities for hundreds of years and more recently have supported a major tourism industry. The people of the area have much to be proud of as stewards of a key part of Kenya's heritage. Kenya has been unable to give adequate emphasis to the development of its marine and coastal environment, although this contributes significantly to its national economy. As seen in the Diani-Chale area, a rapidly increasing and diversifying population has led to intensifying competition and conflict over the natural resources and their subsequent degradation. There is an urgent need therefore for integrated management, so that the area continues to provide healthy livelihoods for its inhabitants. This booklet summarizes the information documented in the profiles prepared during the first phase of the initiative. It highlights the rich biodiversity, natural resources, and cultural at tributes of the area, outlines the key issues that need to be addressed to ensure their sustainable management, and describes some of the management approaches being u ed. II aims to increase awareness amongst all those who live, work and visit the area of the need for integrated management involving all stakeholders.