The Bouyouni River is one of the main permanent rivers in Mayotte. It plays a key ecological role on the island. It serves as a habitat for many endangered amphihaline species, forms a corridor linking the lagoon to the summit of Mount Majimbini, and feeds several water catchments for human consumption. Like all rivers, its hydrobiological functionality is closely linked to the state of conservation of the riparian forest on its banks. The latter acts as a natural barrier, filtering sediments, nutrients and pollutants, thus helping to maintain water quality. The roots of riverside trees and plants also help to stabilise the banks, reducing erosion caused by the river current and limiting downstream sedimentation (watercourses, mangroves, lagoons).
The riparian forest along the river is now severely degraded and only partially fulfills its ecological role. This situation has significant repercussions both on the conservation of species dependent on the river and on the maintenance of the quality of water intended for human consumption, a resource that is currently under pressure in the department.
The project focuses on the ecological restoration of the river’s riparian forest through the planting of plant species native to Bouyouni and thus has a threefold environmental objective: to improve the quality of aquatic habitats, to conserve the animal and plant species associated with these environments, and to strengthen river continuity. The project is part of a comprehensive approach to restoring natural habitats and associated functions at the watershed level and is based on an ecosystem approach to the interdependence of the ecological components of the territory.
Duration: 30 months
