Justine Kibet Rutto is an Assistant Research Scientist in the Department of Oceanography and Hydrography at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), Kenya. His research focuses on marine pollution, marine biogeochemistry, microplastics, emerging contaminants, and coastal ecosystem health. He has contributed to several national and regional initiatives addressing marine environmental monitoring, pollution assessment, and sustainable Blue Economy development. Justine has experience in field-based oceanographic surveys, environmental data analysis, scientific reporting, and stakeholder engagement. He is the author of the peer-reviewed publication “Heavy Metal Contamination in Mombasa’s Coastal Waters and Sediments: A Systematic Review of Sources, Distribution, Ecological Risks, and Management Implications (2015–2024)” published in Kenya Aquatica Journal. His current interests include advancing science-based approaches to marine pollution management and strengthening ocean sustainability in the Western Indian Ocean region.

Heavy Metal Contamination in Mombasa’s Coastal Waters and Sediments: Sources, Distribution, Ecological Risks, and Management Implications for Sustainable Coastal Management.                                                                                                                                                                  Heavy metal contamination has emerged as a significant environmental concern in coastal ecosystems worldwide, posing risks to marine biodiversity, ecosystem functioning, fisheries resources, and human health. Mombasa’s coastal waters, which support critical ecological habitats and contribute substantially to Kenya’s Blue Economy, are increasingly exposed to anthropogenic pressures arising from urbanization, industrial development, port activities, tourism, wastewater discharge, and agricultural runoff. This presentation synthesizes findings from a systematic review of studies  conducted between 2015 and 2024 on heavy metal contamination in Mombasa’s coastal waters and sediments. The review evaluates the occurrence, sources, spatial distribution, and ecological implications of key heavy metals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni). Evidence indicates that concentrations of these contaminants vary across locations, with elevated levels frequently reported in areas influenced by industrial and urban activities. The review further examines the ecological risks associated with heavy metal accumulation in marine sediments and aquatic organisms. Sediments act as both sinks and secondary sources of contaminants, facilitating long-term environmental persistence and bioavailability. The accumulation of heavy metals in marine organisms raises concerns regarding bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and potential human exposure through seafood consumption. The findings highlight the need for strengthened environmental monitoring, pollution prevention strategies, and science-based management interventions to safeguard coastal ecosystems. Recommendations include enhanced regulatory enforcement, integrated coastal zone management, improved wastewater treatment systems, and continuous monitoring of contaminants in marine environments. The study contributes to ongoing efforts to promote sustainable coastal resource management and supports national and global commitments toward ocean health, environmental sustainability, and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).                                                                                                                                              Keywords: Heavy metals, marine pollution, coastal sediments, ecological risk, Mombasa, Blue Economy, environmental monitoring, Kenya.