Global Recognition
Recognised
By the World.
Every award, prize, and royal visit reflects the work of the fishing communities of Kilifi County - not just our organisation.
His Majesty King Charles III
Kuruwitu Marine Sanctuary · Kilifi, Kenya
His Majesty King Charles III personally visited the Kuruwitu project, launched a coral restoration block bearing his royal cypher into the waters, and endorsed the community-led conservation model to a global audience of millions.
“Royal endorsement carried the work of Kilifi's fishermen to every corner of the world.”
UNDP Equator Prize 2017
United Nations Development Programme
Kuruwitu CBO wins the prestigious UNDP Equator Prize for exemplary community-based approaches to conservation and sustainable development - placing the community-led model on the world stage of environmental leadership.
“One of the world's most recognised prizes for grassroots environmental action.”
IUCN Blue Champions Award 2022
International Union for Conservation of Nature
Kuruwitu CBO wins the 2022 IUCN Blue Champions Award, recognizing outstanding ocean conservation leadership and two decades of proven community-driven marine protection delivering 400% fish biomass increase and 30% coral recovery.
“Global recognition for champions protecting our ocean for future generations.”
United Nations Food Systems Game Changer
UN Food Systems Summit
Recognized as a Food System Game Changer for innovative community-led approaches linking ocean health, fisheries management, and food security in coastal communities.
“Transforming how communities manage ocean resources for sustainable livelihoods.”
World Economic Forum - Uplink Top Innovator
World Economic Forum
Selected as a top innovator by the World Economic Forum's UpLink platform for scalable ocean conservation solutions.
“Global recognition for innovation in marine conservation.”
IUCN World Conservation Congress
International Union for Conservation of Nature
Presented the Kuruwitu community co-management model as a globally scalable blueprint for marine governance at the world's largest conservation forum.
“From 30 hectares to a global template - Kuruwitu on the world stage.”
“These recognitions celebrate the dedication of Kilifi's coastal communities.
Their commitment to ocean stewardship is what makes this work possible.”
- Des Bowden, Co-Founder & CEO
Continue reading: Meet the organisations partnering with us to protect Kenya's ocean.
Our Partners →