In the Houakpè-Daho district of the Ouidah commune, conservation efforts for mangroves are being challenged by unknown individuals. Located about forty kilometers from Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, Ouidah is a historic city with significant ecological value. Mangroves, which are vital for coastal protection and biodiversity, are being destroyed in several areas. A recent river patrol on the Houakpè-Daho lagoon assessed the damage in the villages of Sèyigbé, Azizakouè, and Toligbé. Similar destruction has been observed in the villages of Kouvènanfidé, Mêko, Dégouè, and Aïdo in the nearby Djègbadji district, along the Ouidah lagoon. Adolphe Lissassi, chief of Sèyigbé village, expressed his concern over the damage caused by the cutting of mangroves. "I was devastated by the damage," he said. André Ayiwanou, a local fisherman and fish breeder in central Houakpè-Daho, shared similar worries. "I am sad to observe the pressure on the mangroves," he said. During a visit to the area, the natural sounds of the mangroves—bird songs and the splashes of fish—offered a peaceful atmosphere. Waterfowl dive and fish-eating birds glide over the water in search of prey. In some parts of the lagoon, mangrove branches are used as "acadja," traditional devices to trap fish. Nicolas Alomasso, a fisherman from Kouvènanfidé, told Mongabay that the cutting of mangroves has increased in recent weeks. His comments highlight the growing concern among local residents and the potential impact on the environment. The observations suggest that the Djègbadji district still has significant mangrove vegetation, which plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and economy. However, the increasing destruction raises questions about the sustainability of current practices and the need for stronger conservation measures.