International Day of Forests New FCC Chairpersons Appointed 5.1 Million Hectares of Forests to Be Restored

A Quarterly Magazine of The Kenya Forest Service : Issue No. 18 : January - March 2016

International Day of Forests New FCC Chairpersons Appointed 5.1 Million Hectares of Forests to be Restored

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 1 FROM THE EDITOR In this issue of the Forester Magazine, the KFS Board For these and more, I welcome you to read and enjoy your copy appointed new chairmen to head the ten forest conservancy of the Forester Magazine. Please feel free to give us your feed- areas in Kenya. The chairmen were taken through a three day back regarding the Magazine and any other issues touching on induction workshop in Nakuru where the Director familiar- forestry. ised them with the Service’s Mandate, the Forest Act 2005 as Happy reading well as their new duties and responsibilities at the -conser vancy level. The FCC has an important role in forest manage- Anne Kaari ment as they are the link between the Service and the various stakeholders in the forestry sector. Elsewhere, the Service together with the County of Taita Taveta signed a Transition Implementation Plan (T.I.P) for the devolved forestry functions for the county. The plan involves discussions, consultations and collaboration between the Central and County governments on plans to undertake devolved functions. The Service also celebrated the United Nations Inter- national Day of Forests (IDF) at a colorful event at the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company in Ruai and in selected loca- tions in all conservancies. This year’s theme ‘Forests and Water’ aims at rais- ing awareness on the importance of forests and the ways in which forests and trees sustain livelihoods and protect the environment. It was also a good opportunity for members of the public to be educated on matters of conservation and sustainable management of forestry resources. KFS staff joined delegates from across the continent to attend the 20th Session of African Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC) conference that took place from 1st - 5th February, 2016 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre under the theme “Sustainable Management of Forests and Wildlife in Africa: Enhancing Values, Benefits and -Ser vices”. The conference was officially opened by the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Regional Development Authorities Prof. Judi Wakhungu. The KFS Director Emilio Mugo was appointed as Chair of the FAO African Forestry and Wildlife Commission for a period of two years running from 2016 – 2018. A cross-section of Chuka Forest in Tharaka Nithi

EDITORIAL TEAM IN THIS ISSUE

EDITOR - Anne Kaari 03 - DIRECTORS FORWARD SUB EDITORS 04 - LEAD STORY - Charles Ngunjiri - Leakey Sonkoyo 09 - NEWS ROUND-UP STAFF WRITERS 12- PROJECT NEWS - Caroline Kahuria 14 - PICTORIALS - Lydia Ogada - Michael Muratha 16 - FEATURES - Susan Ndethiu 17 - PROJECT NEWS - Pamela Gatwiri 21 - ECO TOURISM - Benedetta Wasonga - Royan Ndegwa 22 - CROSS CUTTING ISSUES - Evelyne Macharia 23 - STATION PROFILE - Mellitah Tenges 24 - SPORTS NEWS CONTRIBUTORS - Alfred Gichu 25 - FROM THE FILES DESIGN 26 - HUMOUR AND LEISURE - [email protected] 28 - KNOW YOUR TREES PRINTERS - Pavens Communication Printers DISCLAIMER

2 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 WORDWORD FROMFROM THETHE DIRECTORDIRECTOR

The importance of forests to all spheres of life cannot be gainsaid. This is why all countries are committing themselves to reduce forest degradation and increase the world’s forest cover. Hence too the reason the United Na- tions designated the 21st of March every year to be the In- ternational Day of Forests which is marked by all member countries by engaging in various activities. Kenya was not left behind as we marked this important day by planting trees at Chemususu Dam in Koibatek, Baringo County. The running theme for this year was “forests and water”. The event was presided over by our Cabinet Secretary for Environment Prof. Judi Wakhungu. On another front, the Service was able to hand over devolved forestry functions to the Taita Taveta County at a colourful ceremony in Wundanyi. The actual transfer which involved signing of Transition Implementation Plans (TIPs) between the Kenya Forest Service Director and the Governor of Taita Taveta County His Excellency Eng. John Mruttu was also witnessed by our Cabinet Secretary and the Principal Secretary for Environment Dr. Margaret Mwakima. Transfer of devolved forestry functions is a Constitutional require- ment and KFS has identified 21 functions to be devolved. The process of devolving these functions is continuing. KFS Director - Emilio Mugo Kenya was honoured to host the 20th session of the Africa Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC) conference its implementation at the regional level; to exchange information in Nairobi. The AFWC is one of the six regional forestry com- and, generally through special Subsidiary Bodies, to advise on missions of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). suitable practices and action in regard to technical problems and The others cover the regions of Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin to make appropriate recommendations in relation to the- fore America and the Caribbean, Near East and North America. going. During the conference, I was honoured to be elected the Its purpose is to advise on the formulation of forest and Chairman of the Commission for the next two years. wildlife management policy and to review and coordinate Emilio Mugo KFS Director LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BE THE LUCKY WINNER!!! People have now realized that natural resources are fi- KFS will be awarding one lucky winner of the ‘Star Letter’ . nite and must therefore be utilized sustainably if mankind hopes Write to us with your comments and queries for a chance to to continue depending on them. This can only be done through win the below branded merchandise. conserving our environment and educating the public on the importance of tree planting like KFS is doing through participation in the agricultural shows and through their various projects such as Green Schools and Commercial tree growing and Devolution in the forestry sector. These are some of the ways to increase the country’s forest cover to at least 10% as well as to share experience in sustainable management of forest resources in order to reduce the effects of climate change happening in the country and around the world at large. Charles Ngari Githaiga Mukuruwe-ini Nyeri ------REPLY Charles, Thank you for your letter and for your continued interest in forestry conservation.Kindly collect a copy of the previous 3 issues of the Forester magazine and your branded merchandise at the Ecosystem Conservator’s office in your area. Editor

@KeForestService Kenya Forest Service [email protected] www.kenyaforestservice.org Kenyaforest

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 3 LEAD STORY

Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Regional Development Authorities Prof. Judi Wakhungu (center), KFS Board Chairman Peter Kinyua (2nd left) KFS Director Emilio Mugo (left) and Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi (Right) take part in dance ceremony with community members during this year’s International Day of Forests celebrations held at Chemususu Primary School, Koibatek, Baringo County. Kenya Forest Service marks International Day of Forests Regional Development Authorities Prof. and other KFS officers, the County and By Lydia Ogada and Benedetta Wasonga Judi Wakhungu was the Chief Guest at Service officers took part in celebrating the event. She was accompanied by the the occasion, which presented a perfect The United Nations General Governor of Baringo County Benjamin opportunity to educate the public on assemblies proclaimed 21st March as Cheboi, the KFS Board Chairman Peter matters of conservation. the International Day of Forests in 2012. Kinyua and the KFS Director Emilio Mugo. Mrs. Kiruri noted that Nairobi County in This day celebrates and raises awareness Also present at the event were senior partnership with KFS had achieved huge of the importance of all types of forests. members of staff from KFS as well as from milestones in its efforts to protect and The theme for the 2016 celebrations the County. conserve forests by actively engaging was ‘Forests and Water’ signifying the Speaking at the event, the local communities in Participatory Forest vital role that forests play as the planet’s Cabinet Secretary said that Kenya had Management. “I am optimistic that supply of fresh water, which is essential committed to rehabilitating 5.1 million we will achieve the vision 2030 goal for life. hectares of degraded forests. She called of attaining 10% forest cover thereby On each International Day of on all Kenyans and stakeholders to join increasing water supply in the County Forests, countries are encouraged to hands in planting trees to ensure the and in Kenya at large. Let us be proud organize activities involving forests and country achieves a 10% forest cover. of our forests.” she said. Her sentiments trees such as tree planting campaigns were echoed by the Nairobi Eco-system Meanwhile, Nairobi County at local, regional and national levels. Conservator who also lauded the efforts joined other Counties in celebrating the The selection of this year’s theme of the area local youth and women groups International Day of Forests (IDF) at a underscores the importance of protecting in conserving forests. She added that KFS colorful event at the Nairobi Water and and conserving our forests for enhanced officers were ready and available on the Sewerage Company in Ruai that brought provision of water resources for domestic ground to work with them to ensure that together various Government Ministries, water supply, irrigation. Hydropower their mission is achieved. “It is my sincere Non Governmental Organizations and generation, biodiversity conservation hope that the local self help groups will other private stakeholders in the County. and resilience against adverse effects of engage more in tree growing activities climate change. Led by the Nairobi County for a better future.” Director of Agriculture, Livestock & This year’s IDF celebrations The event was marked in several other Fisheries, Forestry and Natural Resources, were held on 21st March 2016 at Counties and in all the Service’s ten Mrs. Anne Kiruri who was also the chief Chemususu Primary School, Koibatek Conservancies. guest and accompanied by the Nairobi Baringo County. The Cabinet Secretary Eco-System Conservator Mrs. Mary Mwai for Environment, Natural Resources and

4 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 LEAD STORY

KFS Director Emilio Mugo (seated left) and the Governor of Taita Taveta County His Excellency Eng. John Mruttu signs a Transition Implementation Plan document for devolved forestry functions at a ceremony in Wundanyi witnessed by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Natural Resources and Regional Development Authorities Prof. Judi Wakhungu, former KFS Board Chairman Mr. Peter Kirigua and Principal Secretary Ministry of Environment Dr. Margaret Mwakima. Taita Taveta County finalizes its Transition Implementation Plan By Royan Ndegwa forests formally under the local authorities, farm forestry and movement of forestry products including charcoal. Taita Taveta Kenya Forest Service in conjunction with Taita Taveta County will also take over the management of 44 forest blocks County on 29th January 2016 marked the signing of the in the county. Transition Implementation Plans (TIPs) for the devolved forestry functions in the county. The process of devolving forestry Speaking at the ceremony, the Cabinet Secretary Prof. functions to counties began in 2014 and Taita Taveta County Judi Wakhungu congratulated the county government for being became the first to sign the TIPs thereby devolving the forestry the first to sign the TIPs. She urged other counties to expedite functions to be performed by the county. the transfer of the devolved functions saying that this will help the counties increase their revenue bases while playing their In attendance to grace the momentous occasion part in the conservation of forests. The Cabinet Secretary was the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Natural reiterated the Ministry’s support and guidance in the process of Resources and Regional Development Authorities Prof. Judi helping counties adopt the devolved functions. Wakhungu the Principal Secretary Natural Resources and Regional Development Authorities Dr. Margaret Mwakima, The KFS Director assured the county government the Governor of Taita Taveta County His Excellency. Eng. John of the Service’s support in building their capacity in forestry. Mruttu, former KFS Chairman Mr. Peter Kirigua, KFS Director Mr. “KFS will continue to work with county governments to assist Emilio Mugo among other guests. them develop capacity in forestry management evernt after the transfer of the devolved functions,” added Mr. Mugo. The plan was drawn following intense discussions and consultations among various stakeholders including county Meanwhile, Laikipia became the second county governments, the Transition Authority, civil society and other to adopt devolved forestry function after the Governor His players in the forestry sector through which 21 forestry functions Excellency Joshua Irungu and the KFS Director signed the identified for devolvement were unpacked and a road map for county’s plan at a colourful ceremony which also marked the actual transfer of the functions was developed and adopted. launch of the 2016 long rains national tree planting launch. This followed a series of regional meetings which brought on board all the 47 counties. KFS will continue to work with Taita Taveta County thus became the first one to adopt “ county governments to assist its Transitional Implementation Plans (TIPs) at a ceremony in them develop capacity in forest- Wundanyi where the Director of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and ry management evernt after the the Governor formally signed the plans. transfer of the devolved functions Among the devolved functions include the management of community and trust lands, management of ” THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 5 LEAD STORY

Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Environment Dr. Margaret Mwakima signs a visitor’s book at KFS exhibition booth during the AFWC Conference which was held at KICC on the 1st-5th Feb 2016. Looking on is KFS Director Mr. Emilio Mugo (far right), KFS Senior Deputy Director Support Services Ms. Monica Kalenda (left) and Conservation Secretary Ministry of Environment Mr. Gideon Gathara (middle). 20th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission Conference Takes Place in Kenya

By Evelyne Macharia makers to the contribution of forests and wildlife to the National economy and also to the improvement of the livelihoods of the The 20th Session of African Forestry and Wildlife populations. FAO and invited individuals from the public and Commission (AFWC) and the Fourth African Forestry and private sectors and the academia made keynote presentations Wildlife Week (AFWW) took place on 1st -5th February, 2016 on diverse issues under the theme with varying emphasis at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre under the on the social, economic and environmental values of forests theme “Sustainable Management of Forests and Wildlife and wildlife and the need for their sustainable management. in Africa: Enhancing Values, Benefits and Services”. The AFWC 20 and AFWW 4 provided an opportunity for forests, theme had been purposely selected by the AFWC Bureau wildlife managers and custodians of related natural resources to highlight and implement the many facets of sustainable to exchange knowledge, information and experiences to management of forestry and wildlife, and to fully capture help inform policy at National and sub-regional levels. their importance in sustaining the livelihood of millions of

people, supporting sustainable development in the region. KFS staff joined delegates from across the continent

in this landmark congress that was officially opened by the The 4th African Forestry and Wildlife Week (AFWW) Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources had the added objective of drawing the attention of policy and Regional Development Authorities Prof. Judi Wakhungu. Continued to next page... 6 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 NEWSLEAD STORY ROUND-UP

...Continued from previous page 20th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission Conference Takes Place in Kenya

The Cabinet Secretary welcomed participants to Kenya and The Commission was informed of the important underscored the importance of forests and forestlands to milestones in 2015 relevant to forests and forestry, including National economic development, climate change mitigation the outcomes of the 11th session of the United Nations and adaption. In her opening statement, Prof. Wakhungu Forum on Forests; the adoption of the United Nations of the noted that most African countries do not allocate enough 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Sustainable resources to Forests and Wildlife in their budgets. She further Development Goals and the adoption of the Paris Agreement noted that forests directly and indirectly have influence on on climate change. The commission underlined the other sectors of the economy and provide benefits that are opportunity presented by the SDG’s to raise awareness on better defined as ecosystem services. the essential roles forests play in sustainable development. She underlined the importance of better reflecting It also emphasized that collaboration and coordination local and national priorities when developing national between forests and other sectors especially agriculture, forestry programs. She further highlighted the region’s efforts energy and water will be crucial to the achievement of the to develop policies and strict custom regulations to better SDG’s. The Commission urged countries to work actively to manage the continent’s forestry and wildlife resources. integrate forests into their National climate change strategies.

Presentations stressed the important role of forest sector in Africa for both climate change adaption and mitigation. It highlighted the key initiatives undertaken by the FAO and its partners to support African countries and African regional organizations on their related efforts and FAO’s work under UN-REDD. The commission reiterated the importance of the Paris agreement and requested FAO to support countries actions for implementation in a coordinated manner, including adequate involvement of key National stakeholders. In order to improve forest and wildlife policy implementation, the commission noted the need for greater stakeholder participation and inclusive consultation, including for the purpose of developing in each country a shared vision of future development ambitions and priorities A panel discussion during the conference involving the land. This would allow the forest, wildlife and other natural resource sectors to move forward alongside The session was addressed by various stakeholders other sectors in a coherent manner. The commission among them Mr. Bukar Tijani, Assistant Director FAO and recognized that women and youth have a huge role to play Regional Representative for Africa, Mr. Babaud Mattieu in achieving sustainable management of the world’s forests Darret Minister of Forests Cote d’ivore, Dr. Mumaaba Flavia and wildlife. Nabugere the Minister of State for Environment Uganda, It therefore encouraged members to mainstream, Mrs. Oppah Charm Zvipange Minister for Environment, gender and youth into their forest and wildlife policies and Water and Climate Change Zimbabwe, Mr. Ndarufatiye ensure the implementation and monitoring of these policies Theophile Deputy Minister for Environment Burundi, Hon. in enabling environments such as community based forest Dawis Mwango Deputy Minister for Lands, Natural Resources management. It further requested that members explore and Environmental Protection Zambia, Ms. Eva Muller innovative approaches to tackle challenges facing the future Representative of the Assistant Director General (Forestry) of forest education in order to attract more students in the and Director Forestry Policy and Resources Division FAO, Mr. field of forestry. Joseph Hailwa, Chairperson of African Forestry and Wildlife Commission, Mr. Robert Allport FAO representative in Kenya. Some of the key issues that were discussed include: Prof. Wakhungu noted that most • Global policy processes “ • Forestry and climate change adaptation and mitigation African countries do not allocate • Implementation of forest and wildlife policies in Africa; Harmonizing sectorial policies and laws to reduce growing enough resources to Forests and conflict on land use Wildlife in their budgets. • Enhancing sustainability and efficiency of wood fuel production and consumption ” • Women, gender and youth Continued to next page... THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 7 LEAD STORY

KFS Board Members led by the Vice Chairperson Naomi Mogoria (7th left) and the Director Emilio Mugo pose for a group picture with the officers from Asili SACCO led by the national chairman Evans Kegode. Asili SACCO FAO Forestry Director Ms. Eva Muller (left) and KFS Director Mr. Emilio Mugo (right) listen to proceedings during the African Forestry and Wildlife Donates Training Commission conference at KICC, Nairobi. Kits By Leakey Sonkoyo KFS Director Asili SACCO donated over forty training kits to the Kenya Forestry College’s Paramilitary School as part of their Appointed Chair Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The training kits which were issued to the school’s instructors were the of the African fulfilment of a promise given to them when the SACCO donated jerseys to the recruits late last year. Forestry and Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the national chairman of Asili SACCO who is also the Head of Survey and Mapping Department at Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Mr. Evans Wildlife Kegode, said that giving back to the society was one of the key pillars of the SACCO. He noted that the membership of Commission the SACCO which currently stands at over 10 000 was mainly drawn from the environment sector with KFS contributing most of the members. “Our being here today is testament to Benedetta Wasonga our appreciation for the enduring partnership between our The Director of the Kenya Forest Service Mr. Emilio members from KFS and the SACCO,” said the Chairman. Mugo has been appointed the chair of the FAO African Forestry On hand to receive the donation was the KFS Director and Wildlife Commission for two years running 2016-2018 th st Mr. Emilio Mugo who was accompanied by Board Members who following the successful hosting of the 20 session from 1 - th form the subcommittee of the college led by its chairman Mr. 5 February 2016 in Nairobi. He replaces Mr. Joseph Hailwa John Gethi. Speaking at the ceremony, the Director lauded the from Namibia who chaired the session between 2013 - 2015. SACCO’s kind gesture and assured them that KFS will continue The commission discusses policy, scientific and technical issues partnering with them for the benefit of KFS employees who relating to forestry and wildlife; its deliberations give rise to were members of the SACCO. Noting that he himself was an special recommendations at meetings of the FAO Committee active member of the SACCO for 29 years, Mr. Mugo said that on Forests (COFO) and to governments of member countries. the credit society had helped its members greatly over the The African Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC) years. “Asili has enabled its members acquire properties at low is one of the six regional forestry commissions of the Food and prices as well offering affordable loans,”added the Director. Agriculture Organization (FAO). The others cover the regions During the event, the chairman took the opportunity of Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, to announce to his members that the SACCO had signed a Near East and North America. Its purpose is to advise on the salary processing agreement with the Cooperative Bank that formulation of forest and wildlife management policy and to will enable members’ access their salaries through their Fosa review and coordinate its implementation at the regional accounts. “This agreement will enable our members to fully level; to exchange information and, generally through special patronise our Fosa products and services which include salary subsidiary bodies, to advise on suitable practices and action advances,” said the Chairman. in regard to technical problems and to make appropriate recommendations in relation to the foregoing. Asili SACCO was started in 1972 by employees of the former Forest Department. It has however over the years grown and now draws its membership from various institutions including KFS, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), Mines and Geology Department, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) among others. Mr. Kegode was accompanied by the SACCO’s CEO Ms. Grace Alinyo and members of the executive committee.

8 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 LEAD STORY NEWS ROUND UP

KFS Director Emilio Mugo addressing the FCC Chairpersons during the induction workshop

New FCC From L-R: Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Director Mary Mukindia waters a tree in Mangoto Primary School in Murang’a County assisted by Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Ecosystem Conservator Murang’a James Gitonga and Chairpersons other KFS Officers. Kenya Forest Service is keen on partnering with other Inducted organizations in a bid to increase the current forest cover from 7% to 10%. By Leakey Sonkoyo KRA Partners with The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) board has appointed new chairmen to head the ten forest conservancy areas in KFS to Plant 1 Kenya. The chairmen were taken through a three day induction workshop in Nakuru to familiarise themselves with their duties and responsibilities at the conservancy level. Million Trees Addressing the new chairmen and all the ten Heads Pamela Gatwiri of Conservancies (HOC), the KFS Director Mr. Emilio Mugo Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in partnership with the congratulated them on their appointment and asked them to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has embarked on a major work closely with forest managers in discharging their duties. tree planting exercise in the country in a bid to plant 1 million The Director took the chairmen through the mandate of KFS trees. On 31st March, they planted 500 seedlings at Mangoto including its formation through the Forests Act of 2005. He Primary School, Murang’a County, in an event that was geared particularly dwelt on the mandate of the Forest Conservation to promote tree planting in schools. Recently, KFS and KRA Committees (FCC) as espoused in the Act. He noted that the were in the Western Kenya region where more than 200,000 FCCs had an important role in forest management as they were seedlings were planted in Kakamega, Siaya and Kisumu as part the link between the Service and the various stakeholders in of their Corporate Social Responsibility. KRA and KFS have been the forestry sector. “Work closely with the HOCs to resolve any distributing seedlings to schools, health centers and to local issues touching on forestry in your conservancy,” the Director farmers to promote agroforestry. urged them. Speaking during the event, Murang’a County Speaking at the same forum, the Senior Deputy Commissioner Kula Hache challenged the youth to devote their Director for Field Operations Mr. Esau Omollo also welcomed energy towards planting trees and embrace their vast benefits the new chairmen and urged them to engage the forestry instead of engaging in criminal activities.“Trees can be used for stakeholders in their respective conservancies in forestry commercial purposes like timber and the young people should development. He noted that the FCC played an important role utilize this resource to earn a more honest living,” said the in advising the Board on various issues touching on forests Commissioner. including gazettement of new forest areas. KRA Director Mary Mukindia also addressed the crowd The new chairmen were taken through various and called on the locals to plant trees during the upcoming presentations by officers from the headquarters and the HOCs rainy season. She underscored the importance of registering which were aimed at helping them internalise the various as a tax payer to be able to facilitate the betterment of the aspects of forestry operations and management. services citizens receive. She commended the community for The FCC bring together various stakeholders in the coming together to plant trees in the School. Mangoto Primary forestry sector including county governments, Community School began in January 2012 and now has 500 pupils and 12 Forest Associations (CFA), wood industry practitioners and teachers. line government departments at the regional level. The ten conservancies are; Nairobi, Mau, North Rift, Western, Nyanza, Central Highlands, Eastern, Coast, Ewaso North and North Eastern. THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 9 NEWS ROUND UP

KFS Director Emilio Mugo (2nd right,seated) signs a Forest Management Agreement (FMA) with members of Kiptunga CFA at Maji Mazuri, Baringo County, as Deputy Director Plantation & Enterprise Simiyu Wasike (right,seated) witnesses. Community Participation in Forest Management By Leakey Sonkoyo

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has launched 10 Partici- patory Forest Management Plans (PFMPs) and signed 11 Forest Management Agreements (FMAs) with Community Forest As- sociations (CFAs) in Western and Mau Conservancies. The plans and agreements will help the communities living adjacent to forests to carry out agreed activities in the forests that benefit them while still conserving the forests. The management plans and agreements are legal requirements for management of all state forests in the country. The PFMPs are drawn by communities in conjunction with KFS and spell out various activities that the community can carry out in a particular forest. They also state the responsibility of each of the partners in making sure that the integrity of the forests is not compromised. Speaking in Kakamega during the launch of the PFMPs and signing of FMAs for Kibiri, Malava and Bunyala forest stations, all of which are in the larger Kakamega Forest ecosystem, the KFS Director Mr. Emilio Mugo urged communities to implement the management plans fully so that they can benefit from the forests. “This is an opportunity for you to improve your livelihoods while conserving forests with us,” said the Director. KFS Director Emilio Mugo presents a copy of the Participatory Forest Manage- Addressing the same gathering, the Forest Conserva- ment Plan (PFMP) to an official of one of the CFAs during the launch of the tion Committee (FCC) chairman for Western Mr. John Baraza PFMPs in Baringo County. urged the CFAs to do their part in the conservation of Kakamega of the PFMPs. He thanked local stakeholders who included the Forest. He told the CFA members that his committee was com- Lembus Council of Elders, for supporting forest conservation in mitted to helping them actualize the forest management agree- the area. The PFMPs that were launched include Maji Mazuri, ments. Chemususu, Kiptuget, Chemorgok, Sabatia, Esageri and Nara- At Maji Mazuri in Baringo County, the Director sha Forest Stations. The Director also signed FMAs for these launched seven management plans and signed eight manage- stations and Kiptunga Forest Station from Nakuru County which ment agreements with CFAs from Baringo and Nakuru Counties. had launched its PFMP earlier. He pledged the Service’s support to the CFAs in implementation

10 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 NEWS ROUND-UP

Finland’s ambassador to Kenya H.E Tarja Fernandez (in blue t-shirt) and KFS Director Emilio Mugo (in checked coat) pose for a picture with the visiting Finnish Members of Parliament during their visit to the Kenya Forestry College (KFC) in Londiani, Kericho County Finnish MPs Visit Kenya Forestry College By Leakey Sonkoyo partnership between the two countries. He assured the MPs that Kenya and KFS in particular was ready to forge new Members of Parliament from Finland recently toured partnerships with Finland. He noted that Finland having a the Kenya Forestry College (KFC) at Londiani as part of their very developed forestry sector had helped Kenya in capacity visit to Kenya. The 10 MPs who constitute the Gender and building through training of forest officers and technology Labour committee in the Finnish parliament were on a mission transfer. He cited the new sawmill at the Kenya Forestry to see projects funded by their government. College (KFC) which will be used to train small scale sawmillers Speaking at the College, Finland’s Ambassador to and students as an example. Kenya Ms. Tarja Fernandez who was leading the delegation, thanked the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for hosting the MPs. She noted that Finland and Kenya had cooperated particularly in the forestry sector for a long time. She singled out the Miti Mingi Maisha Bora (MMMB) programme which she said had helped bring about forest sector reforms in the country including the formation of the Service. She acknowledged that even as the programme was coming to an end, there was need for both countries to look for other areas of partnership in the sector.

The sawmill put up with funding from the Finnish Government at the Kenya Forestry College Londiani for training students and sawmillers

Apart from the sawmill, the Finnish government had also supported the college in curriculum development Finland’s Ambassador to Kenya H.E Tarja Fernandez speaks to the group according the principal Prof. Donald Ogweno. The principal during a meeting at the College. said that the college had also benefited from ICT support and Addressing the same gathering, KFS Director Mr. was in partnership with Hamk University in Finland through Emilio Mugo thanked the Finnish government for the long which students will benefit from exchange programmes between the two institutions. THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 11 PROJECT NEWS

Johny Zapata (3rd left) FAO representative based in Rome, presents a booklet on how Government can empower Forest Producer Organizations to KFS Director Emilio Mugo when he visited KFS offices to brief him on a field trip to Nakuru and Laikipia Counties where Forest and Farm Facility funding is supporting- farm ers to access markets for their farm products to improve their livelihoods. Empowering Indigenous People through Alternative Means of Livelihood By Caroline Kahuria shared within the members and individuals have a role to play Twelve groups in Nakuru and Laikipia Counties in the final product that is produced and taken to the market, are beneficiaries of the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF), a we couldn’t be happier.” She noted. multi-donor funded programme that aims at strengthen- Speaking regarding the programme, KFS Head of Ex- ing forest and farm producers, catalyzing multi-sectoral tension Management Oscar Simanto noted that the project’s stakeholders, policy platforms with government at lo- objective is being realized through the empowerment of farm- cal and national levels as well as linking voices through ers in learning new markets, educating farmers to be proactive participatory communication and information sharing. and advising them on different opportunity costs in the market. The project is keen on improving the livelihoods of Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) is also key in linking na- farmer’s particularly in developing capacity to structure and tional sustainable forest management aspirations to a global govern business oriented producer groups, undertake market agenda and initiatives such as food security, poverty reduction, demand assessments and supply inventories for potential prod- forest management, illegal logging, trade, biodiversity and cli- ucts option and build business management. The project has mate change mitigation. encouraged farmers to engage in different income generating The Project is funded by the Food and Agriculture Organiza- activities such as poultry, tree nurseries, woodlot establishment tion’s forest and farm facility and being implemented by the among others. Kenya Forest Service. Speaking while on a field tour to Laikipia and Nakuru, The CFA has several user groups among them a 450 Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) representative Jhony meter board walk managed by women members. According to Zapata expressed his contentment with the groups and encour- Mwatime Hamadi, the women charge a fee for people to walk aged them to be proactive and realize new ways of improving on the board walk and learn about the different mangrove spe- their livelihoods even after donor money is completed to sup- cies and other biodiversity thereby earning them a living. The port them. He noted the need to work as a team for the realiza- group has also registered a Community Based Organisation tion of both individual and group goals. (CBO), Mikoko Pamoja Organisation which is conserving man- Speaking regarding the benefits of the group, 30 year groves for carbon credits. They sell the credits to companies in old Esther Wanja from Nettle world self-help group in Laikip- Europe and use the proceeds to empower themselves econom- ia East was quick to thank the FAO for the project and noted ically. that the it has been instrumental in capacity building more so in training on financial management which is key in any group’s The training that we have received success. “The training that we have received from the FAO is “ critical to us as a group as it has opened our eyes in ways we from the FAO is critical to us as a couldn’t have imagined, particularly in understanding the importance of working as a group since we produce and supply in group as it has opened our eyes in large quantities. It is also key since different responsibilities are ways we couldn’t have imagined... 12 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 ” PROJECT NEWS Forest Conservation and Management Fund By Melita Tenges credit rating and proof of good governance. This also applies to The National Forests fund is not a new development corporates and individuals who may be interested in the loans. in the forestry sector. It dates back to the early 1930’s having Selection criteria for the eligible groups will look into the groups been first established in the United States (Knutson Vanderberg contribution to forest cover, viability of a group’s proposal, a Fund) and Spain in the year 1939 (Patrimonio Forestal del Es- clear demonstration of women and youth participation, degree tado). As a result of the devastation caused by World War II, to which members have participated in the design and formu- France also created the ‘Fonds Forestier’ to counter the harm lation of the application, provision of background information caused to their forests. Different countries across Africa have on similar projects implemented or being implemented by the over the years developed their National Forest Funds which are group, the financial value for money offered by the proposal designed to set aside a portion of National revenues for forestry and impact of the proposed project. purposes. The forest funds exist for more than a single govern- Terms and conditions put in place to govern the issu- ment budget cycle, setting apart specific forestry-related reve- ance of loans (a loan to an individual, corporate or a group) also nues and earmarking them for investment in the forest sector. vary. The maximum loan amount as a percentage of the project The Forest Act 2005 on Forest Conservation and Management cost varies depending on the type of loan and also the mini- bears information regarding the establishment of the Forest mum equity amount as a percentage of the project cost. Other Management and Conservation fund in Section 17; and in ac- terms and conditions include maximum and minimum funding cordance with section 20 of the same Act, the fund is to be run levels with bigger projects getting funding of up to five million by a Finance Committee appointed and empowered on behalf shillings whereas smaller projects are funded up to three hun- of the Board. dred thousand shillings. The interest rate is to be negotiated Section 26 (1) establishes the Forest Conservation and between the fund and financial services provider in the above Management Trust Fund which is under the Forest Conservation types of loans and the loan term is up to five years for corporate and Management Bill 2015. It states that the Trust Fund shall and individual loans depending on the nature of activities but be managed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Cabinet the terms are slightly lower for group loans. For group and in- Secretary. The Board of Trustees is to consist of the Chairper- dividual loans, a grace period of three months will be given but son and four other Members namely a county representative, the interest will continue to accrue. a civil society representative involved in forest conservation, a Corporate loans however have no grace period. In all National government representative and a private sector repre- the loans, there will be no fees paid for the application, and sentative. securities for the group and individual loans will include chattel Not only is the Forest Fund aimed at developing for- mortgages, group guarantee (groups), individual guarantee (in- ests, but it also serves a purpose in the maintenance and con- dividual loans), a 20% of total loan amount for groups and 10% servation of indigenous forests, promotion of commercial forest for individuals shall be saved before the disbursement into the plantations, promotion of community-based forest projects, fa- group account. The securities for corporate loans will be asset cilitation of education and research activities, establishment of collateral with all directors jointly and severally guaranteeing. nurseries and production of seedlings among others as stated Credit life insurance applies to corporate loans where the loan in the Forest Act 2005. The objectives of the Trust Fund are to must be insured and individual loans where the beneficiaries nurture, promote and inspire innovations in forest conservation will pay credit life insurance which will be based on the market as stated in the Forest Conservation and Management Bill. policies. Following a recent Kenya Forest Service liaison meeting As for grants, all proposals submitted to the fund need held in Mombasa, a proposal was made on different activities to to demonstrate how the proposal meets the fund’s purpose or be financed using the Forest Fund. The activities which are to be criteria. This should be articulated showing how the objectives financed via loans and grants include innovative farm and forest and activities would have an impact on the purpose of the fund; enterprises, certification of forest and forest products, Ecotour- and must have a sustainability strategy. Groups that seek grants ism activities, rehabilitation of forests, education and applied must be active and registered under the relevant laws, have the research, conservation awards, carbon trade schemes and cli- implementation of their project based in Kenya, must be en- mate change schemes among other activities. Eligible groups gaged in forest land activities and must have a bank registered that will be funded include inter alia: Community Forest Asso- in the name of the organization with a favorable credit rating. ciations and other forest conservation groups, Forest and Farm In addition, the official must not have been convicted of an- of Producer Organizations, youth and women groups involved in fense for professional misconduct or/and an offence resulting in forest related activities, Farm Forestry Field Schools, forest de- jail term for more than six months. They must not be declared pendent communities, forest related co-operatives, forest- re bankrupt with proof of good governance and must have compli- lated umbrella organizations and networks, group ranches and ance with statutory regulations such as tax compliance. forest group entrepreneurs across the value chain. In order for a group to receive a grant, specific terms These groups must be registered under the relevant and conditions are to be observed. Type of grant as in groups laws and their proposed activity must be in Kenya along with engaged in forest conservation and grants to corporates en- other basic requirements such as a bank account, favorable gaged in forest conservation related research. The maximum Continued on page 16...

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 13 PICTORIALS

The newly appointed Finnish Ambassador to Kenya Tarja Fernandez (left) shakes hands with Kenya Forest Service Director Emilio Mugo during a courtesy call. The Finnish Embassy is actively involved in the Forestry sec- The former Chairman of the KFS Board Mr. Peter Kirigua (r) hands over to the tor and plans are underway to continue funding and providing technical new Chairman Mr. Peter Kinyua (c) at the KFS headquarters. They are accompa- support this sector. Finland is estimated to have 75 percent forest cover nied by the KFS Director Mr. Emilio Mugo

KFS Board Chairman Peter Kinyua (seated centre) and KFS Director Emilio Mugo (seated centre) together with KFS Board Members and KFS Senior Management Officers pose for a group photo after a Management Liaison meeting held at the Travellers Beach Hotel, Mombasa.

Shauna Matkovich (2nd left) Investment Manager at International Wood Com- pany waters a tree she planted in Molo Nakuru County, she is flanked by colleagues Dr. Mogens Pedersens (4th right), Anders Pagh Director Danish Forest Association (left) and Oscar Simanto (3rd right) KFS Head Extension Manage- ment when they toured the County with an interest to invest and empower Forestry students propagating bamboo at a nursery at the Kenya Forestry Charcoal Producers to improve their livelihoodS. College, Londiani

14 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 PICTORIALS

The KFS Director Emilio Mugo (front center) poses for a group photo with the new FCC chairpersons and Heads of Conservancies after opening their induction workshop in Nakuru

Members of the Finnish delegation are given a demonstration of the sawmill by a worker at the College.

Kenya Forest Service Senior Deputy Director Field Operations Esau Omollo receives reference material documents from Project Manager (IC-FRA) Peter KFS Director Emilio Mugo (left) receives the training kits from the Asili SACCO Nduati (right) and Helena Haakana of Natural Resources Institute of Finland, national chairman Evans Kegode as the SACCO’s CEO Grace Alinyo looks on in Luke (center). Londiani

KFS Director, Emilio Mugo (seated center) poses for a group photo with participants of the training workshop on Climate Change Initiatives in Marsabit County

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 15 FEATURES As part of the discussion, the workshops focused on legal aspects of implementing payments for ecosystem Payment for services (PES), conservation incentives and REDD+ programs through the lens of participation agreements, poverty reduction, livelihoods and other equity issues, evaluation and Environmental managing trade-offs and synergies between programs, sectors and incentives, monitoring, reporting and verification of Services (PES) activities and outcomes and financial mechanism, targeting and controlling administrative costs. Like PES and conservation incentives, REDD+ sup- in Africa ports several sectors including the tourism, water agriculture By Pamela Gatwiri and industry among others. While formal implementation of Africa is resource rich and natural resourc- REDD+ typically rests with the forestry sector, cooperation es play a key role in its development. More than else- and involvement across related sectors and stakeholders where in the world, its sustainable development will including local communities is needed for successful imple- depend on its capacity to efficiently and sustainably mentation of the National REDD+ Strategy. manage its natural resources, in particular, water, In Kenya, PES tool has deemed valuable especially land and forests for the benefit of all. in the Lake side regions where the low levels of fresh water They form the basis of economic activities and liveli- are worrying. Lake Naivasha is one such area that has seen hoods, especially among the poorest who are heavily depen- progress due to the PES program. Former Director of Wa- dent on chiefly land, water and forests. In fact, the majority ter Resources John Nyaoro, of the Ministry of Environment of the population is engaged in their use and exploitation, & Natural Resources, once commented that it has been which represents an estimated 30% of the continent’s Gross demonstrated farmers can protect the catchment areas on Domestic Product (GDP), according to African Development their own with little assistance and urged all stakeholders to Bank’s CIF Knowledge series May 2015. make this project a sustainable one. The strong economic growth Africa has recently Under the PES program that was supported by enjoyed hinges critically on these resources, requiring their World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in 2014, the farmers in sustainable management. However, in Africa, sustainability Naivasha region planted fodder crop and trees along contour of these natural resources has faced some major challenges lines, leaving the riparian uncultivated and planted high val- starting with an insufficient mobilisation of financial resourc- ue crops. Introduction of the PES program in Lake Naivasha es by countries and donors making it imperative to explore was a major step in reinforcing the restoration of degraded alternative and innovative mechanisms. Such one mecha- areas of the lake ecosystem. The farmers expressed satisfac- nism is Payment for Environmental Services (PES). tion with the program. They attributed it to increased production in their farms. The instrument of PES has become increasingly popular, especially in the context of developing countries, given its potential to contribute to the sustainable use of natural resources and poverty reduction. Climate change presents new challenges for the management of social-ecological systems and the ecosystem services they provide. PES has appeared as a promising tool at the local level to foster conservation efficiency, sustainable finance for conservation and poverty reduction. Sustainability cannot be taken for granted and investments in ecosystem restoration are much needed.

....Continued from page 13 grant amount as a percentage of the project cost varies from Payment for Environmental Services (PES) is a new, grants to groups and grants to corporates with the former hav- innovative and promising approach to Natural Resource ing 90% of the grant value subject to a maximum of one million Management. PES is a market-based mechanism where land shillings and the latter matching a grant of up to a maximum owners are rewarded by service beneficiaries such as Kenya of 50% of the grant value. The grant period is also different Forest Service. It is based on the premise that land owners in that the period for groups is up to 1 year depending on the undertake land use transformations that provide agreed eco- nature of the activities of enterprise, where as the grant pe- system services. For these services, they are rewarded finan- riod for corporate is up to 2 years depending on the nature cially by the beneficiaries. of the activities of the enterprise. A processing fee of at least A few years ago, Kenya Forest Service implement- one thousand shillings depending on the forest conservation ed the REDD+ initiative. REDD+ is an urban abbreviation for initiative is required for both where as securities which is a con- Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degrada- ditional grant for both groups and corporates are subjected to tion. KFS has participated in various workshops where they recommendation from a recognized and relevant conservation shared lessons learnt and experiences on Payment for Eco- entity, grant agreement (affidavit/indemnity) and commitment system Services (PES) schemes in countries such as Mexico, to fulfill grant conditions, failure to which the officials/directors Ecuador and Costa Rica and their relevance to REDD+ pro- will be jointly liable to refund it. grams implementation.

16 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 PROJECT NEWS

Dr. Mogens Pedersens (left) consultant International Wood Company is accompanied by colleagues from Danish Forest Association, Kenya Forest Service, FF-SPAK and We Effect when they visited Kitui County to see how charcoal production using kilns works. International Wood Company is interested in supporting developments of woodlots for charcoal production, exploring viable investment options on charcoal value chain and marketing of forest products to empower charcoal producers to improve their livelihood. Investing in Woodlots for Charcoal Production By Caroline Kahuria view the venture, where the transporters portable metal and casamance kilns that Charcoal is a key source of en- see it as a business while the producers are appropriate and efficient. The tech- ergy in Kenya providing 82%of urban and see it as a means of livelihood. This is why nologies provide usage of less wood in 34% of rural household energy. According KFS is keen on partnerships to help edu- small branches in place of huge logs and to Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the sector cate the charcoal producers to be part of the quality of the charcoal is of high qual- provides employment to over 700,000 the whole value chain and benefit fully.” ity. people who support over two million de- He said. With a high demand for charcoal pendants. Charcoal business is big and The Danish Forest Association in both rural and urban areas, and with remains active even after several bans by through the International Wood Compa- a desire to achieve 10% forest cover, KFS the Government to curb cutting down of ny (IWC) is ready to collaborate with KFS is keen on promoting sustainable man- trees, which charcoal producers harvest to empower small scale farmers to grow agement and production of charcoal to unsustainably, sometimes in desperate woodlots for charcoal production. Speak- ensure that the industry is well organized moves to feed their families. ing while on a trip to Kitui and Nakuru re- and that charcoal producers enjoy max- Research indicates that char- spectively to analyze the situation on the imum benefit from the enterprise for a coal producers, despite doing all the hard ground Dr. Mogens Pedersen from IWC green economy. work of charcoal burning, remain finan- noted that there is great potential within Forestry Programme (NFP) as well as as- cially challenged while the transporters the areas that could even provide mar- sist the government in alleviating the sit- get most benefits from the venture. It is kets for both local and International mar- uation of vulnerable communities in the for this reason that KFS is keen on em- kets. “The African Continent and more so country. powering the producers through capacity Kenya, continues to have degraded areas training to ensure that they understand of forest land because individuals cut fully and are part of the value chain for trees for domestic use and particularly full benefits. for charcoal production. This is why it is Speaking regarding charcoal important to have a programme where production, KFS Director Emilio Mugo farmers grow trees particularly for char- noted that the Service has been collabo- coal production because most house- rating with Counties to ensure that small holds need it.” Mogens noted. scale farmers, more so charcoal produc- In recent times, new technolo- ers, are empowered through capacity gies that are cheap and easy to manage building to ensure they understand the have been adopted in a bid to sustain- value chain in order to benefit fully from ably utilize trees for future generations. the venture. “There is potential in char- Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) coal production, however there is dispar- has been keen to develop the technolo- Charcoal Briquettes ity in how producers and transporters gies which include improved earth, drum,

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 17 PROJECT NEWS

From left: KFS Board Chair Peter Kinyua, Environment C.S Prof. Judi Wakhungu, Deputy Head of Missions-Finland Embassy Ramses Malaty and KFS Director Emilio Mugo during the commissioning of the 80 million sawmill at the Kenya Forestry College in Londiani. KFS in New Partnerships With Development Partners By Evelyne Macharia & Pamela Munene development challenges. This includes guiding Kenya’s refor- estation efforts, helping reduce emissions from agriculture, and In most regions of the world, the sustainable manage- helping Kenya benefit from carbon markets. SLEEK will also help ment of natural resources requires the involvement of many put better information in the hands of farmers and communi- different stakeholders, a strategy that the Service has been en- ties. SLEEK will provide data that can be used to develop apps forcing. There are a couple of project success stories like the that can help farmers in a wide range of ways, such as informing ‘Miti Mingi Maisha Bora’ Project that was funded by the Finish decisions about which crop to plant, how much cattle their land Government, at a sum of 2.1 billion since 2007. Such projects can support, and where trees are most likely to survive. have created employment of thousands of individuals and have boosted the technical skills in local grounds in the forestry sec- Upper Tana Natural Resources Management Project tor. This is an eight year project funded by IFAD and the There are many other projects in the pipeline which Government of Spain, and is aimed at contributing reduction KFS is working on, that are due to improve natural resource of rural poverty in the Upper Tana River catchment. This goal management in the country as explained below: is pursued through two development objectives namely; In- Ongoing KFS Projects creased sustainable food production and incomes for poor rural households living in the project area and sustainable manage- System for Land Based Emission Estimation in Kenya ment of natural resources for provision of environmental ser- (SLEEK) vices. This project is a Government of Kenya program that aims to develop a robust measurement, reporting and verifica- The project has three main components: tion system to estimate land based emissions in Kenya to pro- • Empowering communities to sustainably mange natural re vide this data to drive development in the country. Through this sources by building their capacity to develop resource man program, with support from the Clinton Climate Initiative, the agement plans while also improving their livelihoods Government of Kenya is developing cutting-edge data tools that • Sustainably improving the incomes and living standards of the draw on land cover, soils and climate data to calculate green- target group through interventions that are beneficial to the house gas emissions associated with land use activities. KFS is management of natural resource base on board with this project as its input provides vital information • Improving the sustainable management and use of water and to track deforestation, direct use to management and plan sus- other natural resources. tainable growth by being able to visualize and analyze how land use has changed over time. The target area of the project is the Tana Catchment The system will also play a key role in pro- areas, covering 6 of Kenya’s 47 counties, namely Muranga, Ki- viding information to help Kenya respond to a range of other rinyaga, ...Tharaka, Embu, Nyeri and Meru. Around 205,000

18 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 PROJECT NEWS poor rural households – including smallholder crop and livestock farmers, agro-pastoralists, fishers and rural traders – are expected to benefit from the initiative, which features special focus on women, young people and other vulnerable groups. Soon to Start Projects

Kenya’s Water Tower Protection and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation (WATER) Programme Recognition of Kenya’s water towers economic and environmental importance, and threats posed by their degradation has resulted in Government-and community-led initiatives geared towards rehabilitation. One of the projects initi- ated to obtain this goal is the EU flagship project “Watershed The National REDD+ Coordinator Mr. Alfred Gichu addresses participants of the training workshop on climate change initiatives in the forestry sector in Protection and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation- Pro Marsabit County. gramme,” which aims to conserve the water towers.

Rehabilitation and restoration of the five water -tow ers will be significant as they are considered vital National assets. The programme, funded by the EU, focuses on actions in Stakeholders Mt. Elgon and Cherangani Hills ecosystems. The activities will focus primarily on improving landscape and natural resource Sensitized management, and having in place efficient waste management systems. This will ultimately lead to increased benefits to rural communities from forest, agriculture and agro-forestry land about REDD+ use systems. By Leakey Sonkoyo The overall scope includes the harmonisation of insti- The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources tutional architecture linking National and county governments and Regional Development Authorities through the National for natural resource management; enhanced capacities and REDD+ Coordination Office is sensitizing forestry stakehold- systems to establish an integrated approach to water tower ers on the REDD+ process. The main aim of the activity is conservation and management; rewarding communities adja- to help integrate the REDD+ process into all sectors of the cent to water towers providing ecosystem services accruing to economy. So far, sensitization workshops have taken place in beneficiaries further afield; improving linkages between pro- Narok, Thika and Marsabit. viders of ecosystem services with the private sector; and evi- Speaking in Marsabit during the official opening of a dence-based interventions. sensitization workshop for stakeholders in Ewaso North Con- servancy, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Director Mr. Emilio Key partners in this project include the Government Mugo said that the Service was seeking to build the capacity of Kenya, Water Resources Management Authority (WRMA), of its stakeholders in issues to do with climate change. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Di- Director added that climate change was a reality and was af- rectorate of Environment and the Climate Change Secretariat, fecting the everyday lives of Kenyans. He noted that there Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs), Community For- was immense pressure on forest resources in the country est Associations (CFAs) and relevant Counties. due to the ever expanding population which had necessitat- ed land use change for settlement and agriculture purposes. Support to Sustainable Private Forest Development “It is therefore important that we engage all stakeholders in Kenya and sensitize them on the effects of climate change and the This project is funded by the Government of Germany programmes in place to mitigate these adverse changes,” and its main objective is to contribute to sustainable manage- said the Director. ment of forest resources on farm and woodlands and to en- Speaking at the same event, the REDD+ National hance rural income generation. The main target group consists Coordinator Mr. Alfred Gichu said that there was need for of thousands of small and medium scale private forest owners cooperation in the forestry sector among all players including in Kenya. The project will go a long way in poverty eradication County Governments, communities and even private firms in as it will focus on ways of generating income. combating climate change. He noted that significant resources will be invested in the sector to help it adopt mechanisms that help in reducing deforestation and forest degradation. Rehabilitation and restoration The sensitization workshops will also help build capacity on “ the REDD+ process as a key strategy for forest conservation of the five water towers will be and management. significant as they are considered vital National assets. ” THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 19 Kenya being on the third stage of the Restoration Op- PROJECT NEWS portunities Assessment Methodology (ROAM) is now looking to adopt a framework tool dubbed restoration diagnostic assessment tool that will help develop a National Restoration 5.1 Million strategy. The framework will also help the government syner- gize restoration information from all the actors including the private sector, civil society, communities and development Hectares of partners among others. Further, the Diagnostic tool will serve as a structured Forests to be method for identifying key success factors for forest landscape restoration that are already in place, and also the missing ones within the country that have restoration opportunities. When Restored applied prior to the restoration effort, the Diagnostic tool will By Michael Muratha help Kenya`s decision makers and restoration supporters focus their efforts on the most important factors to get in place be- Kenya recognizes the benefits that forests and trees fore large amounts of human, financial, or political capital are can provide to the country’s landscapes including improved invested. soil fertility, availability of water, green jobs, economic growth, and increased capacity for climate change resilience and mitigation. In line with this, the Government through the Ministry Climate Change of Environment, Natural Resources and Regional Development Authorities has made a commitment to restoring 5.1 million hectares of forests in the country. Legislation takes The move has also been triggered by the ongoing For- est Landscape Restoration (FLR) project which informs work on shape a number of international commitments including the New York Declaration, the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative Major boost to Kenya`s Economy (AFR100) a Pan-African country led effort to bring 100 million hectares of deforested and degraded landscapes under resto- By Michael Muratha ration by 2030 and the Bonn Challenge. Climate change has affected countries for a long time now by disrupting national economies and affecting lives. Such serve climate change effects have been attributed to green- house gas emissions from human activities. To deal with these adverse effects Kenya has moved a notch higher to promote application of people centered policies and strategies including the National Climate Change Re- sponse Strategy, the Climate Change Action Plan, Vision 2030 and the Kenya Constitution 2010. The Country has further adopted international measures in- Kenya Forest Service Board Chairman Peter Kinyua addresses stakeholders cluding the Reducing of Emissions from Deforestation and for- during a workshop on Forest Landscape Restoration held at the Utalii Hotel. est Degradation (REDD+) process that advocates for sustain- In his remarks he commended stakeholders and urged them to continue with the good spirit of conserving the country`s environment. able managed of forests. To further strengthen this his Excellency the Presi- Kenya`s engagement in the AFR100 will secure and dent Hon Uhuru Kenyatta signed into law the Climate Change address a number of goals including Kenya`s contribution to bill 2014 that provides for a legal and institutional framework global climate change and mitigation adaptation goals, the for the mitigation and adaptation to the effects of climate constitutional mandate of Kenya to maintain at least 10% of change. Key provisions in the Act include the establishment national forest cover, Kenya`s vision 2030 of rehabilitating and of a Climate Change Council which shall be an independent protecting Kenya`s water towers in order to increase, regulate and autonomous body that shall draw members from key gov- and maintain high quality water flowing from this catchments ernment sectors, civil society organizations, private sector and and the National Climate Change Response Strategy`s goal of representative from communities. The council shall be headed growing 7.6 billion trees and shrubs for ecological restoration by the President and shall provide high level oversight and co- and sustainable land management. ordination of climate change activities in the country. The Landscape restoration project which is being coor- The proposed Council will also advise the National dinated by Kenya Forest Service with technical support from the and County governments on measures necessary for climate Clinton Climate Initiative, World Resource Centre and the Green change adaptation and mitigation. It will also guide implemen- Belt Movement, has made tremendous achievements since its tation of regional and international conventions to which Ken- inception in September 2014. Key amongst them includes the ya is party to and report regularly on the country’s adherence production of maps and associated area statistics as proposed to its international obligations relating to climate change. priority restoration areas. These maps will help in identifying The signing into law of this act is further a big plus opportunities to scale up restoration efforts to reduce erosion, to the country as it caters for the two third gender rule and increase livelihood diversification, fodder production, as well as promotes for public participation. A number of sectors in the present potential areas for commercial plantations among others. economy will benefit from this act including the Health, energy, transport, agriculture, livestock, forestry and tourism. 20 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 ECO-TOURISM

Ngare Ndare Forest

Ngare Ndare Forest is a flourishing indigenous forest at the foothills of Mt. Kenya. Sapphire pools glisten at the bottom of waterfalls and 200 year old trees stretch into the canopy supporting a rich variety of bird and animal life. The forest forms an important corridor for elephants and other wildlife moving from Mt. Kenya forest to Il Ngwesi, Mukogodo and other sections of Kenya’s northern rangelands that includes the Lew Conservancy.

Ngare Ndare is a 5,554.3 hectare indigenous forest that of- fers an array of outdoor activity such as camping, walking trails, canoeing, rock climbing and a 450-metre steel canopy walkway along a tributary of Ngare Ndare river. The se- rene forest is a sight to behold and one of Kenya’s upcoming gems.

For more information contact: Kenya Forest Service Ngare Ndare Forest Trust Karura, Off Kiambu Road P.O Box 1704 – 60200 Meru P.O. Box 30513 – 00100 Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254 722 886 456, Tel: +254 20 2020285 +254 700 412 532 Email: [email protected] [email protected] or [email protected] www.ngarendare.org www.kenyaforestservice.org

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 21 CROSS CUTTING ISSUES The Curse Of Corruption

Benedetta Wasonga 1956 with the enactment of the now defunct Prevention of Corruption Act (formerly Cap. 65, LOK). This statute was When confronted with the big question about the one in operation from August 1956 to May 2003. Initially, the challenge that is facing Kenya, the most common responses are Prevention of Corruption Act (Cap. 65) was enforced by the likely to be terrorism and unemployment. But what drives terror- Police Department, notably the Anti-Corruption Squad con- ism? Is bad governance partly to blame? Is unemployment due to stituted in 1993. The Squad was however disbanded in 1995 few available job vacancies? More than six billion people live in before it could make any significant impact. Amendment of countries where deep public sector corruption is fuelling poverty, the Prevention of Corruption Act (Cap 65, LOK) in early 1997 exclusion and inequality. led to the creation of the Kenya Anti-Corruption Authority Unfortunately, Kenya ranks high amongst those coun- (KACA) in 1997. tries. While terrorism, poor growth, unemployment and falling Pursuant to Article 79 of the Constitution, Parlia- revenues are critical in explaining slow progress it is systematic ment disbanded KACC on 24th August 2011 through en- corruption that lies at the root of these challenges. actment of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission Act Corruption is undeniably the biggest obstacle to devel- (EACC), 2011. The EACC was established on 5th September opment in Kenya. But corruption is a global issue as it exists al- 2011. Its mission is to have a corruption free Kenyan society most everywhere. What is so unique about corruption in Kenya that upholds integrity and rule of law while promoting in- that makes it such a great concern for development? In the case tegrity and combating corruption through law enforcement, of Kenya, it is not simply the alarmingly high level of public sector prevention and education. corruption that is deeply worrying; it is the entrenched nature of The fight against corruption has not only been left the phenomenon. Corruption in Kenya is structural, endemic and for the EACC. Government agencies have taken up the re- deeply embedded. sponsibility to ensure a corruption free working environ- Corruption is broadly classified into three categories; ment. As such, Kenya Forest Service has put in place an of- grand, petty and political. Grand corruption consists of acts com- fice for corruption prevention. mitted at a high level of government that distort policies or the Led by the Director Mr. Emilio Mugo and the Se- functioning of the state, enabling leaders to benefit at- theex nior Management, KFS employees have pledged to practice pense of the public good. values of integrity, transparency and good governance that On the other hand, petty corruption refers to everyday support prevention of corruption, fight any form of corrupt abuse of power by low and mid-level public officials in their in- practice such as soliciting for kick-backs. The office isin- teractions with ordinary citizens. Finally, political corruption is a volved in Educating and creating awareness on matters of manipulation of policies, institutions and rules of procedures by corruption; Undertake preventive measures against unethi- politicians to keep their power, status and wealth unchallenged. cal and corrupt practices; Conduct investigations on its own While all three categories pervade public life in Kenya, political initiative or on a complaint made by any person. corruption is exceptionally rife. Since Kenya’s inception, personal interests have invari- What the public can do to help fight corruption ably gained precedence at the expense of public welfare. Policies Report all forms of corruption to the KFS Corruption Preven- have been motivated by selfish interests rather than ideals of col- tion Office or to the Kenya Ethics and Anti-Corruption Com- lective good and social security. Institutions have been paralyzed mission (EACC) or any other Law Enforcement Agencies:- by the tradition of political patronage and nepotism. Appropria- • In person tion of public assets for private gain and embezzlement of public • By writing a letter or an email funds by public servants and politicians have deprived the citi- • By telephone or fax zens of basic necessities. • By use of the drop-in corruption reporting boxes Here are the big questions: what has made this exploita- • By use of any other method convenient to you tion possible and unchallenged? Why does it persist? Can we • Anonymously ever get rid of this historical trend of looting and extraction? “Report Corruption in KFS here” link and the organization The scourge of corruption in Kenya has been simply made possi- will take the necessary steps as well as protecting persons ble by the excessive abuse of power fuelled by lack of account- making the corruption complaints/claims. ability. The ruling groups have crippled laws and institutions of It is important to note that fighting corruption must start at accountability for personal gain. Politicians have exploited their the individual level and later spread to the rest of society authority to bend rules and regulations to their own advantage and in so doing, the country as a whole shall eventually be- at the expense of public good. come corruption free. Kenya has for years been involved in anti-corruption drives. The country’s anti-corruption legislation dates back to

22 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 STATION PROFILE Language, is over 120 years old and this is true judging by its girth. The Indigenous part of the forest covers 4,537.99ha and has tree species such as, newtonia buchanan, Croton mac- rostychilis,cedar, prunus Africana, podocarpus,gracillour and acacia are the most common trees found in Mucheene forest. Gazetted in 1938, the forest occupies an area of approximately 7,674.9Ha comprising of plantation, indigenous forests, bush land and bamboo. The members of the community benefit from the forest through the Plantation Establish- ment and Livelihood Program Improvement Scheme (PELIS) that can be accredited to the growth and success of the Kam- ulu CFA. They practice agro-forestry whereby they plant crops like potatoes, maize and beans in the midst of tree seedlings. When the crops are ready they are harvested and by this time the trees will have grown to a certain height where they need not be tendered to anymore. The farmers then move to another section with newly planted seedlings and the process goes on. Through this program the farmers have A section of Muceene forest made huge amounts of money. The manager tells us that in the year 2015 the farmers got approximately 3million from the sale of potatoes. The CFA gets 20% from the sale of potatoes, 10% goes to the com- MUCHEENE FOREST STATION munity scouts and the other 10% remains in the CFA. Later in the year 2015, the CFA was able to accumulate funds from the PELIS program and buy a bus that caters for the transportation By Fridah Murugu and Pamela Gatwiri of CFA members and is also a source of income through hiring. It is a quiet but busy morning in Kiirua an area located in The Kamulu CFA is proving the true potential of a Communi- the outskirts of Meru County. Meru is located on the East slope ty Forest Association by combining forest conservation with of Mount Kenya and five miles north of the equator. We take rural development and community empowerment and pov- the dusty road to Mucheene Forest Station, nestled within hilly erty reduction objectives. Apart from agro-forestry members surroundings and evergreen vegetation, and drive slowly as we of the community graze their livestock in the forest and also stare at the beautiful views in the area. Rays of the sun give the fetch firewood. dramatic effects to the surrounding and the trees are ‘clapping’ The beauty of Mucheene forest cannot be complete their ‘hands’ to welcome the new day. On the way we see sacks without visiting the Mau Mau cave. The cave is named Nto’ of potatoes that have been harvested, an indication that peo- Mwenda after the leader of the Mau Mau fighters in the -re ple in this area embrace farming. Going by the praise we have gion. We are told fighters used to hold their secret strategy heard about the Kamulu Community Forest Association (CFA), meetings inside the cave without fear of being found by the the farming activities must be one of their success projects. colonial government. The cave is neatly tucked within the The road finally leads us to Mucheene forest station ground leaving only a small entrance space that you have to where we meet the Station Manager, Mr. Noah Okoba, who squeeze into. We get inside and a veil of darkness cloaks the welcomes us to his office for a brief interview. He tells us about natural beauty of the cave forcing us to use torches to trace the forest association, Kamulu CFA and later we are joined by our way inside. Bats fly furiously above our heads and as we its Chairman, Mr. Joseph Githinj. The Kamulu CFA was started walk around the cave we see burnt out fire, indication that in 2005 and was registered in the Attorney General’s office. At people, probably the locals, still visit the cave often. the beginning there were only 1,094 members but now they’re As we move on with our tour we see small huts at proud of having 3,079 members. The CFA was formed with the the edges. We are keen to know why they are there. The huts aim of environmental conservation. are built by community scouts to scare away elephants who There are six community based organizations’ (CBO’S) come to destroy their crops during the night. We keep our that operate in Mucheene forest block namely; Kimbo, Nchoo- eyes firmly on the ground hoping to catch a glimpse of the ro, Mujujune, Muruguma, Kirukuru and Katheri. Kamulu CFA animal grouped in the big five but have no such luck. Maybe has had tremendous success so far in managing Muceene For- next time we visit the forest lady luck will be on our side to see est as its Chairman narrates. Since its inception in 2005, the CFA one of the big five. wanted everyone in the community to benefit indirectly from The forest has the potential of being an eco-tourism the forest since without going against its conservation mandate. site considering the attractions like the Mau Mau cave, indig- Farming seemed like the perfect option because Meru County, enous trees and bamboo forest. The CFA is in talks with Ken- especially in Kirua town, receives around 400mm of rainfall year- ya forest service and also get donors to start the eco-tourism ly. site plan. As we leave Mucheene forest we feel Kenya is really After the brief interview, we are given two guides to a hot bed of beautiful sceneries and everyone has a role in take us round the forest. The forest is not merely an expression conserving the environment because as Franklin D. Roosevelt or representation of sacredness, the forest is sacredness itself, a said, ‘’A nation that destroys its soil destroys itself. Forests feeling we get as we walk deeper into the forest. As we enjoy the are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh beautiful atmosphere of this forest we notice a big strong tree strength to our people.’’ standing majestic and proud amongst all other trees. Nothing is holier; nothing is more exemplary than a beautiful, strong tree. One of the guides tells me that the tree, called ‘Mwiria’ in Meru THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 23 SPORTS NEWS KFS Takes Part in the First Lady’s Half Marathon By Evelyne Macharia Thousands of participants from all walks of life turned up for this year’s First Lady’s Half Marathon. Kenya Forest Ser- vice (KFS) staff joined the First Lady in the event held on Sunday 6th March, 2016 at the Nyayo National stadium. This was the third marathon of its kind since its inception by The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Margaret Kenyatta in 2014. As part of the organization’s corporate social responsibility, KFS has KFS Athletics team display their certificates at the end of the 3rd Mau- been involved in various activities that have benefited the com- Egerton University Cross Country Marathon. munity at large. The 3rd Mau-Egerton University Cross Country By Lydia Ogada

Egerton University has been at the forefront of promoting environmental management activities each year through planting of trees in the Mau complex and organizing environmental awareness for the last 10 years. Since 2012, the University has been rehabilitating the Njoro River, which is a flagship project under the Vision 2030 in partnership with other stakeholders. For the last two years, the University and her KFS Senior Management ladies together with the KFS athletics team (at the partners have held a very successful cross country dubbed “Run back) pose for a group photo with their medals and certificates at the end of for Mau” with two main objectives, to create awareness and the First Lady’s Half Marathon. to raise funds for rehabilitation of the Njoro River and the Mau ecosystem. First Lady Margaret Kenyatta flagged off the 21km The University organized its 3rd Mau-Egerton cross Men’s and Women’s races at 7a.m and then took to the course country event on Saturday 6th February 2016 at the University’s in the 10km at 8am. The professional wheelchair race was fea- sports pavilion. The Chief Guests at the event were the event tured for the first time in the Half Marathon. In her speech at ambassadors, athletes Mercy Cherono, Asbel Kiprop and former the conclusion of the marathon, she thanked everyone who athlete Benjamin Limo. The Cross Country was organized by supported her and noted that the money raised would be used the Egerton University, in partnership with Athletics Kenya and to acquire mobile clinics in the remaining counties. sponsored by a number of corporate institutions which includ- In January 2014, the Beyond Zero Foundation was ed; Kenya Forest Service, Nation Media Group, Nakuru Coun- formed to partner with the government in reducing maternal ty Government, Kenya Commercial Bank, Cooperative Bank of and child mortality. Spearheaded by the First Lady of the Re- Kenya, Egerton Cooperative Sacco, AMACO Insurance, APA In- public of Kenya, the Beyond Zero Campaign is part of the initia- surance, Kenya Water Towers Agency, GDC, Kenya Vision 2030 tives outlined in her strategic framework towards HIV control, among others. promotion of maternal, new born and child health in Kenya that Several races were featured which included the 12km has acquired and launched 36 Beyond Zero mobile clinics. A sig- senior men’s race, 8km junior men, 8km senior women and 6km nificant impact on maternal and child health in the grassroots junior women. Others were the 4km race for corporate teams, has been noted with more immunization and HIV/AIDS pro- Egerton University alumni and men over 45 years, 2km race for grams being more accessible. women above 35 years and children between 5yrs and 8yrs and Other notable dignitaries who participated include the the 1km race for class 1-4 pupils and the Egerton University staff First Lady of the Republic of Rwanda H.E. Jeannette Kagame, above 55years. Deputy President William Ruto and his wife Rachael, Cabinet Kenya Forest Service through the ENCOM Division par- Secretaries Dr.Hassan Wario (Cabinet Secretary for Sport, Cul- ticipated in the corporate category alongside other invited cor- ture and the Arts), Maj. Gen. (rtd) Joseph ole Nkaissery (Cabinet porates and emerged the overall winners. Led by Eliud Kosgei Secretary Interior and Coordination of National Government), the team ran a flawless race from start to finish claiming the Dr. Cleopa Mailu (Cabinet Secretary Health), among others. corporate category for the second year running. The team that bon finance, that support implementation of a comprehensive participated included Inspector Patrick Namagwa, Hosea Ro- National strategy. tich, Eliud Kosgei, Daniel Kibet, Wilson Mwangi, Allan Khaemba and Andrew Koome.

24 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 FROM THE ARCHIVES

A letter dated 19th December, 1949 about grazing permits in the Maji Mazuri area.

A letter dated 2nd February, 1989 about a trip to South Nyanza

THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 25 LEISURE WORD SEARCH Tongue Twisters Through three cheese trees three free fleas flew. While these fleas flew, freezy breeze blew. Freezy breeze made these three trees freeze. The Tree Tilted Towards Tom Today

Quotes “The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.” Anonymous Until you dig a hole, you plant a tree, you water it and make it survive, you haven’t done a thing. You are just talking. Wangari Maathai

Tree Jokes What type of tree fits in your hand? A palm tree. How do trees access the internet? They log on.

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THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 27 KNOWKNOW YOUR TREES YOUR TREES

KigeliaWarburgia Africana Ugandensis (Sausage Tree) It is a tall evergreen tree native to Africa with scaly, pale green or brown Also known as Ol-darboi inbark. Maasai Leaves and alternate, Mwegea simple,in Swahili, dotted with glands, blade oblong-lance- thisolate, is aelliptic tree with or oblong-elliptic,a rounded crown 3-15 x 1.4-5 cm. Fruit a berry, at 1st green whichand ellipsoidal, grows to latera height sub sphericalof 9m in and turning purplish, 3-5 cm in diame- openter, skinwoodland leathery, and glandular. up to 18m Seeds in 2 or more with oily endosperm, com- riverlinepressed, moreareas. or The less widespread cordate, yellow-brown, 1-1.5 cm long. It occurs tree in East Africa grows at an alti- in lowland rainforest, upland dry evergreen forest and its relicts in sec- tude of 0-1850m. ondary bushSausage land and tree grassland, has also a on territories in swamp forest. The smoothtree does grey-brown well at an altitude bark which of between 1000-1200m above sea level. becomes fissured and flakes with age. The bark which also serves medicinalUses: purposes is a good remedy for headaches and dysentery. Fruit edibleA unique all parts feature have ofa hotthe Kipeppery- taste. The leaves and seeds are geliasometimes Africana usedtree is to its compoundadd flavor to curries. Leaves, pods and seeds arefed leavesto livestock. which It are makes wavy good and timber occur for building and furniture, also used as in threes, crowded at the ends of firewood. The heartwood contains sesquiterpenoids that can be used against the branches. The leaves believed toarmyworms be a curative widely for occurring malaria, in occurAfrican crop pests. Dried bark is commonly inused 3-5 aspairs a remedy plus a forterminal stomach-ache, leaflet constipation, toothache, cough, fever, broadlymuscle pains,elliptic weak up jointsto 10cm and long. general body pains. Fresh roots are boiled and mixed withA round soup for apex the oftenprevention with ofa diarrhea. Bathing with a leaf decoction NATIVE NAMES sharpis used tip as a flowerscure for several on long unspecified rope like skin diseases. The inner bark is reddish, stalks 2-3m each containing up to Kikuyu- muthiga bitter and peppery and has a variety of applications. It provides treatment for 12 dark maroon flowers which are Luo- sogomatha the common cold; dried and ground to a snuff it is used to clear sinuses; and unpleasantly scented. Petals are Maasai- ol’sognoi trumpetit is chewed, shaped, or smoke folded from and the wavy. burning bark inhaled, as a remedy for chest Nandi- soget complaints.The The Sausage bark, roots tree or is leaves main -can be boiledNative in water Names and the decoction Meru- musuuni lydrunk sought to treat for malaria, its large but grey this causes green violent vomiting. It is a good shade tree Nandi: Kipkarkuriat Kipsigis- moisot fruitsand is or used “Sausages” as an ornamental. 30-70cm Fallen long leaves provide green manure and mulch. which are a good dressing for ul- Kamba: Yangu Luyhia- apache cers and sores after being dried. Al- Meru: Mutimmeru Kamba- muuba aume though dried fruit is proven med- Pokot: Ocarashit icine, unripe fruits are poisonous. Samburu: Larachi Ripe fruit in several cases is also Kikuyu: Muraracii used in the fermentation of local Maasai: Ol larashi brews.

28 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH 2016 28 THE FORESTER :: JANUARY - MARCH TOWARDS 2015 10% TREE COVER