SBM Bank Kenya is leading the conservation of endangered species and critical ecosystems as part of its vital role in driving Kenya’s agenda on sustainability, biodiversity and environmental conservation.
SBM Bank Kenya Deputy CEO, Jotham Mutoka says that SBM Bank is keen on taking a leadership position in driving sustainability initiatives in line with the bank’s key tenets around responsible business, inclusive communities and sustainable growth.
Speaking during a turtle conservation drive in Bidibadu beach, in Diani, Mutoka noted that the bank is stepping up efforts in environmental conservation in the face of increasing human and climate threats especially across the Coastal region where endangered species such as sea turtles are facing survival challenges.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, we recognize our role in promoting sustainability across our operations including the coastal region which is a key biodiversity hotspot,” Mutoka said.
The exercise, which was preceded by a beach clean-up, was conducted in partnership with Diani Turtle Watch, with the aim of boosting the turtle population as part of long-term sustainability efforts.
“However, the rich marine ecosystem and endangered species such as sea turtles face serious threats from human activity and climate change. This calls for collaborative efforts to reverse the negative trends that undermine the wellbeing of local communities whose livelihoods depend on a healthy environment,” he said.
The exercise involved the relocation of vulnerable nests to safer locations and further enhancement of patrols and monitoring activities critical in augmenting the turtle conservation work.
“Diani Turtle Watch exemplifies the power of community action in driving impactful change. The work they do in monitoring nesting sites, relocating vulnerable nests, collecting data and nurturing hatchlings is inspiring.
“We commend their efforts and are glad to come on board to lend our support through sponsorship, altruism and advocacy initiatives. We aim to support the growth of the turtle population, which will in turn support a thriving ecosystem along the Kenyan coastal line,” Mutoka said.
The population of sea turtles has decreased by as much as two-thirds overall with about 6.5 million remaining globally. The Western Indian Ocean hosts five of the seven sea turtle species, including the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, loggerhead turtle, olive ridley turtle and leatherback turtle.
As migratory species that travel thousands of miles, their protection requires collaborative regional efforts between nesting sites, feeding grounds and migratory routes.