Phase :  Exploration  Grant : 30 000CHF Duration : 4 months

Project partners

• EPFL Lab: Transnational Red Sea Center
• Local University : University of Djibouti
• Local partner : Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of Djibouti

Problem

The coral reefs of Djibouti, located west of the Gulf of Aden at the horn of Africa, are crucial for marine biodiversity and the food security of local populations, and are increasingly threatened by factors such as climate change, pollution, and human activities. However, the country lacks a proper monitoring system to track their health and implement effective conservation strategies.

Challenge

How can we establish a sustainable coral reef monitoring system in Djibouti, while reinforcing local capacity to maintain it long-term amidst socio-economic and political challenges?

Solution

The CRMD (Coral Reef Monitoring of Djibouti) project proposes to develop a scientific and technological solution to monitor Djibouti’s coral reefs. It includes training local scientists and conservationists, establishing permanent monitoring sites, and using innovative technologies to collect and analyze data. This project aims to be sustainable and will be driven by partnerships between public institutions, the private sector, universities, and civil society.

Impact

• Environmental: Protection of coral reefs and preservation of marine biodiversity, which is essential for ecosystem health and food security for coastal communities. 
• Social: Job creation, training of young local scientists and conservationists, and strengthening community capacities for sustainable management of marine resources.

Exploration Phase images

Team members