The Great Kei River mouth is home to the southernmost naturally occurring mangrove forests in Africa. White mangroves are ecosystem engineers, helping to stabilise riverbanks with their extensive root systems while trapping sediments carried downstream.  Their roots create sheltered nursery areas where juvenile fish, crabs, prawns, and other marine life can grow before moving into the ocean.  Healthy mangrove forests support local fisheries, improve water quality, reduce erosion, and provide valuable habitat for birds and other wildlife.