Date: May 2022
Location: Galle District, Sri Lanka
Overview
To strengthen coastal resilience and spur alternative livelihoods, MPF mobilized local communities to restore 5 ha of degraded mangroves around the Galle lagoon—and trained 40 youth as eco-tourism guides.
The Challenge
Mangrove loss: Decades of clearance had eroded natural storm buffers.
Economic vulnerability: Fisherfolk lacked income diversification when fish stocks dipped.
No structured ecotourism: Visitors had few safe, guided experiences to appreciate the lagoon’s biodiversity.
Our Approach
Community-Led Restoration
Engaged 250 volunteers to plant 25,000 seedlings of three native Rhizophora and Avicennia species.
Established seedling nurseries and monthly survival-rate monitoring protocols.
Guide & Hospitality Bootcamp
Delivered a 10-day intensive covering ecological interpretation, visitor safety, basic English, and small-business operations.
Eco-Tourism Activation
Partnered with five local guesthouses to create kayak tours, bird-watching walks, and craft-market stops.
Developed an online booking system and promotional brochure.
Implementation Highlights
90% seedling survival at 6 months, verified by MPF ecologists.
Formation of five women’s self-help groups weaving and selling local handicrafts to tourists.
Training of two local entrepreneurs to manage bookings and guest relations.
Results
Restored mangroves now protect 2 km of shoreline, reducing erosion and salinity intrusion.
1,000+ tourists joined guided tours in the first season.
Average guide income rose from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 18,000 per month.
“Our regenerated forest is a living legacy—and now supports vibrant community enterprises.”
— Eco-Tourism Coordinator, Galle Fisherfolk Union