Our Projects
Dakatcha Woodlands Carbon Project
Project Overview
The Dakatcha Woodlands represent one of Kenya’s most ecologically significant yet threatened forest ecosystems. Located along Kenya’s eastern coast, this landscape contains the northernmost extent of Brachystegia-Julbernardia forest (Miombo woodland) on the African continent. Recognized as both a Key Biodiversity Area and Important Bird Area, Dakatcha forms part of the East African Coastal Forests biodiversity hotspot—ranked among the top ten most threatened forest ecosystems globally.
Our 40-year commitment integrates forest protection and restoration through a dual carbon methodology approach. We aim to preserve 54,000 hectares of existing closed forest through REDD+ activities while restoring 40,000 hectares through reforestation interventions. By partnering with local communities and implementing sustainable land management practices, we’re fostering a future where both people and forests thrive in harmony, creating lasting climate, biodiversity, and social benefits across this critical landscape.
Download the Dakatcha Woodlands Carbon Project Brochure
Learn more about this restoration project and its impact on local communities and ecosystems. Our detailed project brochure provides key information about implementation strategies, current progress, and partnership opportunities.Ecosystem
Dakatcha’s diverse ecosystem represents a unique ecological treasure within Kenya’s coastal region. The landscape features multiple forest types, including Brachystegia (Miombo) woodland, Cynometra thickets, and seasonal wetlands that support remarkable biodiversity. As the northernmost extent of Miombo woodland in Africa, the area hosts several endangered endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, including the Sokoke Scops Owl, Clarke’s Weaver, and the charismatic Golden-rumped Elephant-shrew.
This ecosystem faces severe threats from charcoal production, agricultural expansion, and timber extraction, with forests disappearing at a rate of 1.08% annually. Without intervention, approximately 5,700 hectares of closed forest were lost between 2013-2022 alone. By protecting and restoring these forests, we’re safeguarding critical habitat for endangered species while maintaining essential ecosystem services for local communities.
| Stat Label | Stat Value |
|---|---|
| Project Area | 241,000 hectares |
| Carbon Potential | 7-16 million tCO2e over 40 years |
| Forest Protection | 54,000 hectares of threatened coastal forest |
| Restoration Target | 40,000 hectares through reforestation and revegetation |
Community
The Dakatcha landscape is home to approximately 191,610 residents across 32,978 households, primarily from the Mijikenda ethnic group (predominantly Giriama). This area has deep cultural significance, featuring four sacred Kaya forests that represent important heritage sites for local communities who have inhabited the region since 1500 A.D.
Most residents (78.7%) rely on crop and livestock farming for their livelihoods, with limited access to basic services—only 13.9% have electricity and just 3.1% have piped water. Through our collaborative approach, we partner with local communities to implement sustainable forest management practices while fostering alternative livelihood opportunities. The carbon finance mechanism creates a pathway for community development by supporting employment, improved infrastructure, and benefit-sharing arrangements that recognize community members as essential stewards of this landscape.
Technical Approach
The Dakatcha Woodlands Carbon Project implements an integrated conservation strategy that combines two carbon methodologies:
REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation): We’re protecting approximately 54,000 hectares of existing closed forest through community-based forest management, fire prevention programs, and monitoring systems that address the primary drivers of deforestation.
ARR (Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation): We’re restoring up to 40,000 hectares through strategic tree planting, assisted natural regeneration, and invasive species management across agricultural land (30,000 ha) and open woodland (10,000 ha).
The project follows Verra’s Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB), using methodologies VM0048 (REDD+) and VM0047 (ARR). This ensures rigorous carbon accounting while delivering verified climate, community, and biodiversity benefits. Our monitoring framework tracks forest cover changes, biodiversity indicators, and socioeconomic impacts to facilitate adaptive management throughout the project’s 40-year lifespan.
Progress and Impact
The Dakatcha Woodlands Carbon Project is currently in the development phase, with significant progress in establishing the foundation for long-term success. We’ve completed comprehensive baseline assessments of forest carbon stocks, biodiversity values, and community needs across the landscape. Stakeholder engagement is underway with local communities, Kilifi County Government, Kenya Forest Service, and our implementation partner A Rocha Kenya, who has already established conservation presence in the region with their Dakatcha Nature Reserve.
The project is projected to generate between 7-16 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) over its 40-year lifespan. Initial validation and verification is scheduled for Q4 2025, with subsequent REDD+ verifications planned for years 3, 5, and every 5 years thereafter, while ARR components will be verified every 5 years from project start.
As the project advances, we anticipate measurable improvements in forest cover, endangered species populations, and community wellbeing, creating a model for community-centered carbon finance in one of Kenya’s most biodiverse yet threatened ecosystems.
