Yawri Bay, located near Freetown, Sierra Leone, is a Marine Protected Area (MPA) with vital mangrove habitats supporting migratory bird populations and artisanal fishing communities. Designated as an MPA in 2012, the bay has experienced limited conservation efforts, leaving local communities vulnerable to climate change impacts. While industrial fisheries contribute significantly to Sierra Leone’s economy, the artisanal sector, essential for regional food security, lacks integration with climate adaptation measures, particularly in MPAs and Territorial Use Rights in Fisheries (TURFs). Addressing this gap, community-led initiatives are focusing on sustainable livelihoods and building local capacity to protect these critical mangrove ecosystems.