Aga Khan Foundation Launched Indian Ocean Restoration Plan
The ten-year initiative aims to restore 150,000 hectares of mangrove and coastal ecosystems across six nations.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Environmental
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The Aga Khan Foundation has launched the ReGeneration initiative to address climate risks in the Indian Ocean region. This ten-year program seeks to secure $500 million to support coastal restoration and sustainable development for local communities.
Why it matters
Coastal communities in the region face heightened vulnerabilities due to rising temperatures, frequent cyclones, and depleting fish stocks. The project aims to mitigate these threats through a combination of environmental restoration and economic alternatives.
The initiative targets the restoration of 150,000 hectares of mangrove and coastal ecosystems across six countries. This effort is supported by an initial €100 million declaration signed with the Agence Française de Développement.
The players
Aga Khan Foundation
This international development agency focuses on social, economic, and cultural advancement in various regions worldwide.
Agence Française de Développement
This French public financial institution implements state policy regarding international development and sustainable transitions.
The details
The program incorporates strategies including regenerative agriculture, sustainable fisheries, clean energy, and enterprise development to move beyond unsustainable practices. The foundation is also documenting these efforts and community experiences through film productions.
Timeline
May 2026: The Aga Khan Foundation and Agence Française de Développement signed a €100 million declaration.
October 5, 2026: The foundation officially launched the ReGeneration initiative in London.
The Big Picture
This initiative follows the priorities established by the Indian Ocean Rim Association's climate change adaptation frameworks to address regional environmental threats. The project represents a shift toward integrated coastal management by linking ecological restoration with economic enterprise.
The initiative aims to improve food security and economic stability for communities by developing alternatives to overfishing and unsustainable farming. These efforts could eventually lead to more resilient coastal economies and improved biodiversity in the affected nations.
The takeaway
Restoring mangrove and coastal ecosystems provides a critical buffer against extreme weather events like cyclones. These nature-based solutions are increasingly viewed as essential for protecting the livelihoods of millions of people living in vulnerable coastal areas.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing sustainability efforts in the /science/environmental/ section.
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