Restoring Coastal Livelihoods in South Sulawesi

The project's goal is to enhance the livelihood security and well being of vulnerable coastal communities on the west coast of South Sulawesi. It uses a multi-stakeholder collaborative approach working with vulnerable local communities NGOs educational institutions select businesses and relevant government agencies to improve the management of the intertidal region and the economic activity derived from these productive areas. A special focus is placed on empowering women and securing their rights. Project activities include: technical training ecological restoration of mangrove forests conservation and sustainable management of productive coastal intertidal ecosystems and dissemination of project methods and lessons learned.

Results achieved by the end of the project (August 2015) include: (1) coastal communities are better equipped to adapt to their changing environment through the introduction of alternative/the improvement of livelihoods; (2) restored 650 hectares of mangroves using ecological mangrove restoration techniques; (3) local governments through advocacy support are better able to manage mangrove areas; (4) community members/villages are better able to implement participatory and gender sensitive village development and budget plans. These results have contributed to increased economic security based on sustainable use of natural resources. This project is part of Canada’s commitment to climate change action in developing countries. Through Oxfam Canada the project is increasing the resilience of vulnerable communities on the west coast of South Sulawesi to economic and climatic shocks. This is being achieved by strengthening local economies and economic activity in the target area through the restoration and sustainable use of natural resources.