Rooted in Nature, Powered by Community
Where Watamu's coastal heritage meets a vision for sustainable tomorrow
Where Watamu's coastal heritage meets a vision for sustainable tomorrow
Prawns Lake began as a simple idea shared among Watamu fishermen and community elders: what if protecting our mangroves could also protect our livelihoods? What if conservation wasn't something done to us, but something we led ourselves?
Today, Prawns Lake stands as a thriving example of community-powered conservation. Local residents manage mangrove restoration, operate eco-tourism experiences, run a waterfront restaurant and bar, and welcome researchers and students from around the world.
Every seedling planted, every guest welcomed, every meal served it all flows back into the community and the ecosystem we are sworn to protect.
To restore and protect Watamu's coastal ecosystems through community-led conservation, sustainable livelihoods, and meaningful eco-tourism experiences that connect people with nature while empowering local communities to thrive.
A world where conservation and community prosperity go hand in hand. Where Prawns Lake serves as a model for blue economy development proving that protecting mangroves, seagrass, and coral reefs can fuel education, research, hospitality, and lasting positive change for generations to come.
Every decision starts with what is best for the ecosystem. The mangroves, the creek, the wildlife they are our first stakeholders.
Local people are not participants they are leaders. Conservation must be owned, operated, and directed by the community it serves.
We openly share our impact, our challenges, and our finances. Trust is earned through honesty and consistent action.
We embrace new research, new ideas, and new partnerships. Prawns Lake is a living laboratory for coastal conservation.
Prawns Lake is run by Watamu residents fishermen who became mangrove experts, mothers who manage the tree nursery, young people who guide kayaks and share stories of the creek, and elders who remember when these waters teemed with life.
Our team includes nursery technicians, eco-guides, hospitality staff, conservation monitors, and educators. Every role is filled by someone from the surrounding community, ensuring that the benefits of conservation flow directly to those who call this place home.
We also welcome researchers, interns, and volunteers from across Kenya and around the world who bring expertise, energy, and fresh perspectives to our work.
Whether you visit, volunteer, partner, or donate, you become part of a community proving that conservation and prosperity can grow together.