The Mangroves for the Future Programme in the Western Indian Ocean (MFF-WIO) is centred around enhancing the resilience of coastal systems. Subsequently, it has been proposed that the title for the Programme “Resilient Coasts – WIO” more accurately captures the nature and intent of the Programme. This Programme is therefore referred to as Resilient Coasts (WIO) henceforth, with the understanding that it has been developed within the framework of the MFF-Asia Programme and adapted to the needs of the WIO. The Programme views mangroves as a flagship species, in light of their multiple roles, benefits and uses to coastal ecosystems and people. More importantly, mangroves represent the significance of the inter linkages between ecological processes at broad spatial and temporal scales – enabling us to better understand and engage with holistic, landscape based approaches.