Mangroves represent a vital element of coastal and marine ecosystems, as they provide numerous ecosystem benefits. In regards to the environment, apart for being an important habitat for species – such as the Socotra Warbler and Socotra Cisticola as well as other birds, crustacean and reptile species – the trees also have a crucial role in coastal erosion prevention and are considered important carbon sinks which are key components contributing to climate change mitigation.  In regards to the local communities, especially those living in coastal areas, mangroves have traditionally been a constant part of their living environment and play an important role in their daily lives as useful materials for building, fire-making, as well as a goat grazing. For several reasons ranging from human to natural factors, mangrove stands have declined. Due to the destructive effects of Climate Change and cyclones that struck the island in 2015 and 2018, mangroves have drastically decreased. Furthermore, overgrazing and extensive logging have also taken their toll, and further loss of mangroves exponentially leads to the increase of coastal erosion. 

 In light of these challenges, the restoration project aimed at restoring and rehabilitating the lost mangrove ecosystem in a pilot plot in the bay of the Ghuba village on the north coast of Socotra in order to support the mitigation and minimisation of coastal erosion, as well as to enhance the wellbeing of the local community. 

 During Phase II, an agreement was signed between ARC-WH and Al Tamek to: Complete the project, which was stopped after the first phase for two and a half years without completion, and extend the fenced plot area to allow more space for new trees to be planted (yet to be extended), close some parts of the cliff in order to prevent goats from entering the nursery and grazing on the young trees, ensure that new seeds are collected during their seasons, grow new seedlings which will increase the number of trees and therefore the impact of the project, buy more plastic containers to increase the number of growing seedlings inside the fenced plot and place two signed with all project partners’ logos to raise further awareness of the project for future visitors and the local community. One sign is to be placed by the road, and the other one by the coastal bay itself, where the nursery is located.