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It started with long, dusty journeys between Mombasa and Kwale, bouncing along roads that seemed to stretch forever. Mobilizing communities for projects wasn’t just a challenge but an adventure. Each round-trip trip took nearly four hours, but the spark of our mission kept us going.
Why did we start COMRED? Many research institutions existed, but they lacked the community’s voice. Imagine conducting research in a village, only to leave the people wondering, “What’s in it for us?”* We wanted to change that narrative. We weren’t just about gathering data; we wanted to create projects with communities, not just for them.
It started in Kilifi, we did projects in food security, solid waste management, and fish farming. Later, we extended to Kwale County. Then, communities were hesitant and unreceptive, perhaps due to failed initiatives. Now, with the rise of the Blue Economy, there is a shift with communities becoming more eager, hopeful, and open to opportunities.
Watching COMRED grow has been a roller-coaster. We began with three passionate staff members, and now we have a team of 28. High staff retention is one of our proudest achievements—a testament to our positive work culture and thoughtful hiring processes.
Despite tough economic times this year, it has been monumental; we have, for example, secured some unrestricted funding from our partners, LIF. We have also witnessed unprecedented impact through our projects, such as Eco-credit, where groups have increased from 26 to 30, the launch of the Munje patrol boat for the Octopus closure, and more compliance with fisheries management by BMU members, among many others.
To our potential donors and partners, keep trusting in us; our work speaks for itself through the outcomes and impact. To our incredible team, our directors, and staff, your dedication and brilliance drive everything we do. Keep bringing your A-game because, in the end, the results truly matter.
Here’s to inspiring and creating lasting change—together.
