MMAN - Mangrove Management Action Network

The Mangrove Management Action Network (MMAN) is Guyana's comprehensive strategic framework for the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems along the country's 459-kilometer coastline.

MMAN brings together government agencies, local communities, research institutions, and international partners to coordinate actions and share knowledge for the long-term protection of these vital ecosystems.

1. Research & Monitoring

Establishing comprehensive monitoring systems to track mangrove health, coverage, and changes over time using GIS technology and community-based observations.

2. Restoration & Conservation

Implementing active restoration projects in degraded areas and protecting existing mangrove forests through evidence-based conservation strategies.

3. Community Engagement

Empowering coastal communities through Village Mangrove Action Committees (VMACs) and sustainable livelihood programs linked to mangrove conservation.

4. Policy & Governance

Strengthening legal frameworks and institutional capacity for mangrove management while ensuring coordination across sectors.

5. Education & Awareness

Building public understanding of mangrove values and fostering a culture of conservation through education programs and outreach campaigns.

6. Climate Change Adaptation

Leveraging mangroves as nature-based solutions for climate adaptation, including coastal protection and blue carbon initiatives.

• Maintain and expand mangrove coverage: Protect existing 87,000 hectares and restore an additional 5,000 hectares by 2030
• Enhance coastal resilience: Utilize mangroves as natural infrastructure to protect communities from storm surges and erosion
• Support sustainable livelihoods: Create economic opportunities for coastal communities through ecosystem-based enterprises
• Maximize ecosystem services: Optimize the provision of coastal protection, fisheries support, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation
• Build institutional capacity: Strengthen technical and management capabilities at national and local levels
• Facilitate knowledge sharing: Establish platforms for information exchange among stakeholders and with regional/international networks

MMAN is implemented through collaboration between:

Government Agencies

National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI), Ministry of Agriculture, Environmental Protection Agency

International Organizations

Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), Korea Forest Service (KFS), UNDP, WWF

Research Institutions

University of Guyana, Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, regional universities

Local Communities

Village Mangrove Action Committees (VMACs) across 50+ coastal communities