Their target, sea cucumbers, marine animals highly prized in Asian markets.

Despite a 2003 ban on scuba diving for sea cucumbers in Kenya, the practice continues, driven by poverty and global demand.

"They hide under rocks or in the soil, and sometimes you search and find nothing," said Hamadi Mikidadi Maingo, 60, a Veteran Diver. "It takes skill, patience, and luck," Maingo said. Sea cucumbers can fetch up to $300 per kilogram in Hong Kong, while local divers earn just a few United States (US) Dollars per kilo.

Juma Kiti, Founder of a Sea Cucumber Export Company, said, "Sea cucumber is a highly sought-after commodity. But local dealers make it hard for small businesses like ours to access the international market directly," Kiti added.

The trade has allowed some, like farmer Alfred Kazungu, to support their families. "Sea cucumber has enabled me financially," he said. "But we are all feeling the strain," he added.

 Conservationists warn of dire ecological consequences. Sea cucumbers play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, and their depletion could impact fish stocks and coastal biodiversity. A 2022 Institute for Security Studies report linked sea cucumber smuggling to illegal trading in other endangered species.

As regulations remain limited, both the environment and dependent communities are at risk. For Shimoni's divers, the choice is stark. "We dive because we have to eat," Maingo said.

Wildlife Conservation Society Program Manager, Remy Oddenyo says the marine species is in high demand.
"So China and Hong Kong are the major destinations for this specific kind of marine species, the sea cucumber. And there's a huge value that is pegged per kilo for these species. And More recently, we're seeing there are other international countries that are taking an interest in the same. So these factors could be driving the increase in the pressure because there's a huge demand," Oddenyo said.

--Reuters--