Kigombe Coral Reef Restoration week – Big Group Training

11.10.2025

Between 11 and 18 October 2025, our team from marinecultures.org carried out a training week in Kigombe together with the teams from WCS, the Marine Park and local coral restorers. The aim was to train local communities and authorities in coral reef ecology, restoration methods using Reef Stars and site management.

A total of 22 people participated, including staff from marinecultures.org, coral restorers from Kigombe, representatives of WCS and the Marine Park, community members and boat captains. We combined theory sessions with practical exercises underwater. At the end of the week, 28 Reef Stars were prepared and installed at our restoration site on the Makome Reef.

In parallel, we conducted maintenance and improvement training for our coral nursery. The Corals of Opportunity (COOs) from the nursery are regularly transplanted and monitored. The goal is to significantly increase the number of corals transplanted each week.

Key Results of the week

• The trainer and restorer team demonstrated strong commitment and teamwork.
• The Reef Star technique was successfully applied.
• The coral nursery is now maintained in better condition, with clearly defined and improved maintenance and transplantation plans.
• For future outplantings, we are seeking better, more stable substrates than the previously used dead-coral areas.

This workshop strengthens the foundation for sustainable reef restoration and contributes to a healthier underwater world and a secure future for coastal communities.

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