Malindi Marine Park is one of Kenya’s oldest marine parks. It was started in 1968 and is
protected by the Kenya Wildlife Service. The park is found along the Indian Ocean, near the
town of Malindi. It is home to many types of fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and beautiful coral
reefs. Many tourists visit the park to swim, snorkel, dive, and see the colorful life under the
sea.
The park is not only important for tourism. It also protects sea animals and plants.
Fishermen benefit because the park helps keep fish populations healthy. Local communities
depend on it for jobs and income from tourism. For many years, the park has been a source
of pride and beauty for Kenya.
However, climate change is now a big threat to Malindi Marine Park. Climate change means
the earth’s weather patterns are changing over time. Temperatures are rising, rainfall is
changing, and the oceans are becoming warmer and more acidic. These changes are
affecting life in the park in many ways.
One of the main problems is coral bleaching. Corals are living animals that build reefs, which
are home to many sea creatures. When the ocean gets too hot, corals become stressed and
lose their color. This is called bleaching. Bleached corals are weak and can die if the hot
conditions last too long. In recent years, parts of Malindi Marine Park have experienced
coral bleaching because of higher sea temperatures.
Another problem is rising sea levels. As ice in the polar regions melts, the ocean level rises.
This can damage beaches, destroy turtle nesting areas, and affect the natural balance of the
park. Sea turtles, which come to Malindi to lay their eggs, may find it harder to survive if
their nesting beaches disappear.
Climate change also affects the fish and other sea animals. Warmer water can make some
species move to cooler areas, leaving the park with fewer fish. This can hurt both tourism
and local fishing. Ocean acidification, caused by the ocean absorbing more carbon dioxide
from the air, makes it harder for corals and shellfish to grow.
The weather changes also bring stronger storms and unpredictable tides. These storms can
damage coral reefs, wash away sand from the beaches, and harm boats used by fishermen
and tour guides.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to protect Malindi Marine Park. The Kenya
Wildlife Service works with scientists, local communities, and international groups to
monitor the park’s health. They also teach people about the importance of protecting the
ocean. Planting mangroves along the coast, reducing pollution, and controlling fishing are
some ways to help the park adapt to climate change.
Malindi Marine Park is a treasure that needs care. It supports wildlife, people’s jobs, and
Kenya’s natural beauty. Climate change is a serious threat, but with action, the park can
survive and continue to be enjoyed by future generations. Protecting it is not just the job of
the government—it is everyone’s responsibility.
Article by:
- Gladys Musili
- Fiona Britiny
- Mitchelle Mwangi
- Mwallo Susan
- Guyatu Duba
- Collins O. Ouma
- Christine Chiru