In collaboration with The American University study abroad in Kenya, the Kuruwitu Conservation and Welfare Association hosted a Kinuni landing site beach cleanup on 22nd April.

“Why are you here?” Project Manager, Richard Bemaronda asked the participants. Scores of community members and American students gathered to contemplate the importance of their deeds. “I’m here to restore the promise of the sea,” one community member said.

Richard spoke of the project’s success, its potential and the spectacular biodiversity of the conserved waters.

It was understood by all participants that a clean beach meant a brighter future for the residents of Kuruwitu. Whether its trough enhanced environmental management, environmental conservation or developing a local tourism business, a clean beach is critical.

After introductions t-shirts were given out and the participants split into two large groups to begin collecting rubbish. The rubbish was collected in a pile on Kinuni land site and sorted through for any reusable materials. The beach became visibly cleaner, something everyone was easily able to appreciate.

Since the turnout was so large the participants swept through the beach with relative quickness then relaxed in the shade for entertainment and lunch.

Several local students of Tai-Kwan-Do came to demonstrate their unique skills. A delicious beef biryani lunch was prepared, and all the participants ate well after their hard work.

After lunch tour guides from the Kuruwitu Conservation and Welfare Association led the American students into the conservation area for snorkeling. They emerged from the water feeling even better about all the time and effort they had spent on cleaning the beach. They saw the pride of the Kuruwitu community and why it’s important to restore the promise of the sea.

Top: Richard Bemaronda addressing the community. Above left: Community members that participated int he cleanup listen to Richard. Above right: AU students doing the same.