Conservation of Prawn Species in Ubeji River.
The Mission
A community-led initiative dedicated to the preservation of local prawn species and the restoration of aquatic biodiversity in the Ubeji community.
The Challenge
The Ubeji River in Nigeria is experiencing severe water pollution and a 35.9% decline in prawn populations (2023), leading to biodiversity loss and ecological imbalance.
Declining prawn populations and ecosystem health in the Ubeji community due to habitat loss and unsustainable practices.
Strategic Response
A community-led conservation effort focused on restoring prawn habitats and promoting sustainable harvesting practices through A three-phase intervention:
Environmental Monitoring
Community Engagement
Restoration & Aquaculture
A community-led conservation effort focused on restoring prawn habitats and promoting sustainable harvesting practices through A three-phase intervention:
Environmental Monitoring: Biweekly sampling of water, sediment, and macroinvertebrates to assess pollution levels and guide action.
Community Engagement: Training and awareness programs on water quality, biomonitoring, and sustainable prawn farming.
Restoration & Aquaculture: Introduction of prawn broodstock into river cages with managed growth, feeding, and periodic harvesting.
Community Impact
Restores river biodiversity and ecological balance
Trains local youth in conservation and aquaculture
Creates income through prawn harvesting
Reinvests 50% of proceeds into community development