BLEACHED BUT NOT BEATEN: HOPE FOR CORAL REEFS

There’s something magical about standing on Kenya’s coastline, the sound of the waves, the salty
breeze, and beneath the water, an entire world of color and life. Coral reefs have always fascinated
me. They’re like underwater cities, bustling with fish, protecting our shores from erosion, and quietly
supporting thousands of families who depend on fishing and tourism.

But here’s the heartbreaking reality: our reefs are struggling. Rising sea temperatures have caused
mass bleaching, overfishing continues to put pressure on marine life, and pollution is choking what
used to be vibrant ecosystems. It’s hard to think about what we’re losing because once coral reefs
die, it takes decades (if not longer) for them to come back.

For me, this isn’t just an environmental issue, it’s deeply personal. I see the reefs as part of our
heritage, part of what makes Kenya’s coast so special. They’re also part of our future. Without them,
local communities risk losing livelihoods, and we risk losing a piece of ourselves.

I often think about the younger generation too. Imagine if children growing up at the coast never get to see a thriving reef? Imagine if snorkeling only shows bleached corals and empty waters? That thought alone pushes me to believe we must act now.

The good news? Nature is resilient. When given the chance, coral reefs can bounce back. Across the
world, people are experimenting with coral nurseries; literally “planting” new corals and helping
damaged reefs regenerate. Communities are stepping up with eco-tourism projects, and youth are
learning to dive and become eco-guides.

I believe we can do the same here in Kenya. We can protect what’s left, restore what we’ve lost, and
build a future where marine conservation is not just about saving reefs. It’s also about creating jobs,
telling our own coastal stories, and giving young people a chance to thrive.

Every time I think about coral reefs, I feel a mix of worry and determination. Worry because the threat
is real. Determination because I know there’s still hope, and a role for each of us to play.

To me, coral reefs aren’t just “pretty things under the sea.” They’re life, culture, economy, and future.
And I truly believe if we work together as scientists, communities, young people and travelers, we can
turn the tide.

So next time you visit the coast, I challenge you: look beyond the beach. Think about what’s under the
water. And ask yourself: what can I do to help the reefs live on?

Source of images : NOAA Coral Reef Education resources via NOAA’s gallery