Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve

The Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve is set amidst a breathtaking coastline of Kenya, close to Malindi, about 110 kilometers north of Mombasa. This reserve constitutes a very important relic of the coastal forest of Africa that once stretched widely and offers a crucial haven for many endemic mammals, birds, and plants.

This nature reserve is jointly managed by organizations such as the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, National Museums of Kenya, and Kenya Forestry Research Institute to preserve this fragile ecosystem. It is also considered one of the best-preserved woodlands in the country, but it faces threats from local communities reaching out for land.

Realizing this natural treasure, local and international organizations have joined hands with the Kenya Wildlife Service in directly addressing these critical factors. With active community involvement, sensitization on better land use practices, and strict adherence to enforcement of conservation laws, efforts are well underway to guarantee the continuance of future generations drawing benefits from the existence of the Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve.

The reserve plays a very important role in the conservation of biodiversity, acts as a vital eco-tourism link, and is a common field for scientific studies. Its importance ranges from the diverse species present within it down to the serene landscapes, attracting nature lovers to come face-to-face with Kenyan nature in all its splendor. This unusual forest should be preserved not just for ecological reasons but also as part of cultural heritage into the future.