MMAN - Mangrove Management Action Network
A strategic framework for mangrove conservation and sustainable management in Guyana
About MMAN
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.
MMAN Strategic Pillars
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.
Key Objectives
- 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 Partners
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
Get Involved with MMAN
Whether you're a community member, researcher, or organization, there are many ways to contribute to MMAN's objectives.