In a groundbreaking effort to restore ecological balance and uplift a coastal community, RYTHM Foundation partnered with the Rotary Clubs of Kuala Lumpur and Trincomalee for a transformative six-month mangrove restoration project in Sri Lanka.
This initiative, conducted in three phases from December 2023 to May this year, involved planting 5,000 mangrove saplings along a 1.5km stretch of coastline in Sinna Karachchi, Kuchchaveli.
Historically, this region was home to thriving mangrove forests until they were ravaged by the Sri Lankan Civil War two decades ago. Despite the end of the conflict, the area faced significant environmental and economic challenges. This project marks a pivotal step in addressing these issues and restoring the damaged ecosystem.
Our collaboration with the Rotary organisation, alongside local government agencies such as the Kuchchaveli Divisional Secretariat, the Department of Forest Conservation, and the Department of Coastal Conservation, has been instrumental in the project’s success.
Mangrove Revival Benefits
The newly restored mangrove area is already showing signs of rejuvenation. Santhi Periasamy, the Head of RYTHM Foundation, recently contributed to this effort by planting 2,000 saplings. This gesture underscores the Foundation’s commitment to community restoration and environmental sustainability.
Santhi commented, “This mangrove restoration not only revitalises a critical ecosystem but also enhances the resilience and prosperity of the local community. By investing in environmental restoration, we have played a small but significant role in helping create a sustainable future for this community.”
The revitalised mangrove forest is expected to significantly benefit local fishermen by restoring vital spawning grounds and improving fish stocks. Additionally, the project is poised to boost tourism by creating natural landscapes that attract eco-friendly travellers.
“This initiative demonstrates how environmental restoration can drive economic growth and enhance community well-being,” Santhi added.
As the mangroves thrive, they stand as a testament to the power of dedicated conservation efforts and collaborative partnerships. RYTHM Foundation and its partners are committed to continuing such initiatives, aiming to foster sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the environment.
