ABOUT THE HUB
A Centre of Excellence on Kenya's Coast
The Ufukwe Marine Centre (UMC) is hosted at the Technical University of Mombasa and endorsed under the UN Ocean Decade for Science and Sustainable Development. It is a platform that fosters collaboration between researchers, entrepreneurs, and ocean-based stakeholders – including local coastal communities.
The ocean and climate crisis – driven by rising greenhouse gases causing warming, acidification, and deoxygenation – threatens marine life, fisheries, and coastal livelihoods across Kenya. The Hub exists to turn this challenge into opportunity through science, innovation, and inclusive community action.
Kenya’s vast coastline, Exclusive Economic Zone, and dedicated Ministry of Blue Economy make it uniquely positioned to lead ocean-climate solutions across Africa and the world.
Our Four Objectives
Increase knowledge
Build ocean and climate literacy across stakeholders and communities.
Advance research
Drive locally led innovation in ocean-based climate solutions.
Build collaborations
Connect government, communities, NGOs, academia, and global partners.
Promote Blue Economy
Support climate-positive enterprises and sustainable livelihoods.
STRATEGIC FOCUS
What We Work On
Our work spans four interconnected program areas that together drive meaningful ocean-climate impact.
Ocean-Climate Solutions Research
Scientific exploration of mCDR pathways, ocean alkalinity enhancement, blue carbon sequestration, and marine ecosystem restoration.
Ocean-Climate Innovations
Developing and commercializing ocean-based products including bioplastics, seaweed cosmetics, blue foods, and biofertilizers. 03
Education & Capacity Building
Delivering training workshops, mentorship programs, and climate literacy initiatives both in-person and virtually across Kenya.
Ocean Restoration & Conservation
Community-led conservation of mangroves, seagrass, and coastal ecosystems alongside alternative livelihood programs.
LEADERSHIP
The people driving change
Dr. Mariam Swaleh PHD
Project Lead & Hub Director
Assistant Registrar, Research and Grants at Technical University of Mombasa. OCI Fellow 2024–2025. Member of the OOC 11 planning team. Published researcher in ocean governance and marine CDR.