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A Quarterly Magazine of Service ISSUE 27

10% strategy. Pg 2 43rd Graduation. Pg 4 GZDSP Phase II: Promoting Innovation in Forestry Conservation Pg 30

From Ranger to Pilot Pg 31

1 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

From The Editor In this issue of the Forester Magazine, we present CONTENTS articles of some of the biggest achievements in the country in as far as forest conservation and protection is concerned. The conservation of the Mau forest complex, the biggest water tower in the country has been a concern of the government and especially the Service.

However, efforts to conserve the forest complex had been hampered by resistance from people who had illegally settled there. The reclama- tion of the Maasai Mau forest in county in an initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry was therefore a welcome relief in the continuing effort to restore the integrity of critical forest ecosystems in the country.

Other articles in the issue include the 43rd. Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry Keriako graduation ceremony of Londiani Collage Tobiko (second left) plants a ceremonial tree with his Cabinet colleagues from left, , and the National Dialogue conference (Defense) Rachael Omamo organized by the Forestry Society of Kenya. The (Foreign Affairs) and (Sports) Service also signed and launched a number of at Miotoni Block in Ngong Rd Forest Station. Participatory Forest Management Plans (PFMPs) and Forest Management Agreement (FMAs). We have also highlighted our collaboration ...... In this issue with County governments in the management of as well as the launch of the short rains tree planting season activities. Chief Conservator’s Forward 3 In this issue, we have also carried a story, in the Lead Story...... 4 interview form, of one of our own staff members General News...... 7 who best demonstrate the virtues of hard work Pictorials...... 22 and determination. Read all these and much Project News...... 25 more in issue 27 of the Forester magazine Feature...... 27 Editorial Team News Roundup...... 29 Editor: Anne Kaari Sports News...... 34 Sub Editor: Charles Ngunjiri Leisure...... 36 Leakey Sonkoyo From The Archives...... 37 Staff Writers: Benedetta Wasonga Know Your Trees...... Back page Lydia Ogada Sylvester Okal Michael Kitum Royan Ndegwa Bulbul Ratemo Diana Omenda DISCLAIMER Susan Wego Views expressed in this publication are not Valerie Achieng necessarily those of the Kenya Forest Service Board and Management. Contributors: Sgt. Tito Okelo Peter Nduati

2 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service The water tower, which is the largest in Kenya, Word From Chief Conservator of Forests supports millions of livelihoods both nationally and internationally, and therefore reclaiming it was a vital step for the survival of the regional socio-eco- nomic livelihood support system and the natural ecosystem.

Furthermore, the concerted efforts witnessed during this exercise, between Kenya Forest Service, Ministry of Environment and Forestry and our partner agencies and organizations are a clear testament of the importance of multi-stakeholder engagement in forest conservation and rehabilita- tion.

Looking forward, we aim to centralize ourselves as an important facet in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals at a national level and s we usher in a new year and consequently the achieving the 10% forest cover by 2022. This will ‘decade of action’ to deliver sustainable A be achieved through continued support in tree solutions to all the world’s biggest challenges, planting exercises, extending engagements with LW LV LPSHUDWLYH WKDW , KLJKOLJKW WKH GH¿QLQJ VWHSV forest adjacent communities and citizens and that the Organization took in 2019 that are essential creating a holistic partnership between the stake- building blocks towards shaping a sustainable holders, government agencies and corporates in future. conserving our forests. Looking back over the past year, the Service I am aware of the immense yet important task that has played an integral role in formulating and lies ahead for the Service. However, through the implementing policy frame works that are key in enthusiastic and formidable support and work ethic ensuring protection, restoration and the equitable I have witnessed over the past year, I strongly use of forests and forest resources. Key among this believe that Kenya Forest Service will achieve its was the successful eviction of illegal settlers in the inherent mandate of providing the development and Mau Forest Complex. sustainable management of all forest resources. Julius Kamau BE THE LUCKY WINNER LETTERS Hello Kenya Forest Service my name is James Karuga a science journalist for Spore Magazine and Reuters. Kindly do You have any initiatives with local communities around Kenya on climate mitigation? I am very much interested in covering them. Thanks, I am looking to hear from You. James Karuga

Hi James. Yes, we do work with communities living around forests in forest conservation and KFS will be awarding one lucky winner of the management all of which is aimed at climate change mitigation and adaptation among other Star Letter. Write to us with your comments environmental benefits. However, we have a and queries for a chance to win the above project in doing mangrove protection and branded merchandise. conservation for carbon trading. Editor.

3 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

LEAD STORY National Strategy to Achieve and Maintain 10% Tree Cover By Leakey Sonkoyo he through the Ministry tical industry, absorption of pollutants, water Tof Environment and Forestry has come up with SXUL¿FDWLRQ KHUEDO PHGLFLQH DQG LPSURYHG a Strategy to guide the attainment of the Constitu- QXWULWLRQ7KHUHLVVLJQL¿FDQWFOLQLFDOHYLGHQFHWKDW tional requirement for a 10% tree cover in the GHIRUHVWDWLRQKDVVLJQL¿FDQWLPSDFWRQWKHPRVTXLWR country by 2022. vectoral capacity by increasing the number of new 7KLVUHTXLUHPHQWKDVIXUWKHUEHHQUHDI¿UPHGLQWKH mosquito infections from one infected individual FRXQWU\¶V RI¿FLDO GHYHORSPHQW EOXH SULQW 9LVLRQ by 77%. The World Health Organization (WHO) 2030, which sets a target of achieving the threshold estimates that 80% of the population of developing by the year 2030. It is this threshold that has been countries relies on traditional medicine, originating brought forward by His Excellency the President from forests, for their primary health care needs. to the year 2022 that has necessitated the develop- It is further estimated that 60 % of anticancer and ment of the National Strategy for Achieving and antihypertensive drugs are of plant origin. Maintaining Over 10% Tree Cover By 2022. Forests and trees serve as natural air conditioners, The rationale for the strategy is to broaden insti- ¿OWHU KDUPIXO SROOXWDQWV DQG DFW DV FDUERQ VLQNV tutional and multi-stakeholder participation in Forests provide raw materials, energy sources for the accelerating the achievement of the target of 10% industries, power transmission, and water tree cover of the national land area as provided sources. The assessment, of Mau Forest Complex, under the law as well as to implement the Presiden- Cherangany Hills, and Mt. Elgon ecosystems tial Directives that this target should be achieved valuation, established that they provide 35 million through among other initiatives the revival of m3 of water valued at KES 3.4 billion per year for Chief’s tree nurseries with technical support of irrigation, industry, and commercial uses by various Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and allocation of 10% stakeholders. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by all public institutions to tree growing. The strategy will also In as far as food security is concerned, forests are assist in helping the government to implement a source of food, fodder for livestock, soil and several national and global commitments with water conservation, household incomes, and respect to climate change, biodiversity conserva- employment. The Mau, Cherangany and Mt. tion, and land degradation. Elgon ecosystem contribution towards production of The government has committed to restore 5.1 fodder, food in form of fruits and game meat and million Ha of degraded landscapes as a contribution planted food crops is estimated at KES. 634,770,000. to the Africa Forest Landscape Initiative (AFR100), The rivers and streams that emanate from these 50% reduction of greenhouse gases from the ecosystems support the irrigation of 52,030 forest sector by 2030 as part of its Nationally hectares of agricultural land in Kenya, thus making Determined Contribution (NDC) to climate change, invaluable contributions to food security. They and to achieve land degradation neutrality by 2030 support soil and nutrient conservation, provision of as a commitment to United Nations Convention to water and habitat for pollinators. &RPEDW'HVHUWL¿FDWLRQ 81&&'  The cost of implementation of the strategy is estimated to be KES 48 Billion, which will be Forests and the Big 4 agenda. shared between Government ministries, agencies, The 10% tree cover strategy will also be instrumen- departments, County Governments, the private tal in enhancing the contribution of the Forestry sector, farmers, community based organizations sector towards implementation of the Big 4 and all other stakeholders. Agenda. The Environment and Forest sector is Implementation of the strategy is expected to the foundation upon which the performance of the \LHOG QXPHURXV HFRQRPLF EHQH¿WV WR WKH FRXQWU\ key primary sectors of the economy is anchored Under the strategy, 1.8 Billion seedlings will be including, manufacturing, energy, health and produced and planted for purposes of rehabilitation agriculture. The success of the government’s plan of degraded natural forests and commercial public to provide at least 500,000 affordable and decent forest plantations, establishment of private forests, housing by 2022 will depend strongly on the bamboo, tree planting in schools and greening of inputs from the forest sector, including; timber, institutions and infrastructure. poles, pulp, veneer, parquets among other goods. The furniture industry, which strongly depends on In the event that these interventions are not inputs from forests, has an estimated annual implemented, the consequences will manifest in production value of KES 23 billion. Forests will form of reduced supply of important products also play critical roles in the achievement of 100% and ecological services emanating from forested Universal Health Care (UHC) by supporting; landscapes. The cost of inaction is estimated at KES production of raw materials for the pharmaceu- 168 Billion.

4 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

LEAD STORY Launch of Short Rains Tree Planting in Western and Nyanza. By Sylvester Okal

Vice Chair of KFS Board Peter Wandera waters a tree during a tree planting session in . +HLVÀDQNHGE\.)6RI¿FHUVDQGRWKHUVWDNHKROGHUV he Launch of the Short Rains Tree planting Busia Forest Cover currently stands at 1.01%, Tseason for Western Region has took place at a feat that the KFS and the Governor agreed to part- Bukura Agricultural College, County. ner to ensure the target was achieved. By the time of meeting, over 30,000 trees have been planted in The launch facilitated planting of 11,200 seedlings Busia County during the short rains by the County by Kenya Forest Service partners, forestry stake- Government KFS and other partners. holders, students and community members. This launch was done concurrently with the launch of At a tree planting event in County, the Deputy tree planting for Nyanza Region. The launches Governor Dr. Patrick Saisi said the County Govern- were followed by a series of tree planting activi- PHQWKDVVHWDVLGH.VK0LOOLRQWKLV¿QDQFLDO\HDU WLHVOHGE\.)6RI¿FHUVIURPWKHFRQVHUYDQFLHVDQG towards the rehabilitation of Maragoli Hills and a representatives from Karura Headquarters and the further Ksh.80 Million funding expected from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The teams European Union. He said that the County also visited Busia, Migori, Vihiga, and Government was working hard towards setting up Homabay Counties where meetings were held tree nurseries in the county for production of indig- between KFS, The County Governments, enous seedlings to support tree growing in future stakeholders and communities living around forests rainy seasons. in the region. Subsequent tree planting activities in the region were Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong mandated all 117 devolved village units in the county to have also led by the Vice Chairman of the KFS Board tree nurseries of at least 10,000 seedlings each Mr. Peter Wandera where tree planting activities to enable residents obtain seedlings with ease for were conducted at Alupe University & Budalangi in subsequent planting during the rainy seasons. Busia County and at Mirema Hills in The Governor said it was part of his government’s where a total of 18,000 seedlings were planted. concerted efforts to have the county achieve the 10 per cent forest cover by 2022.

5 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

LEAD STORY The 43rd. Kenya Forestry College Graduation Ceremony By Michael Kitum

ViceThe Chair CAS of Ministry KFS Board of Environment Peter Wandera and waters Forestry a tree Hon. during Mohamed a tree plantingElmi presenting session anin Busiaaward County. to a graduand.+HLVÀDQNHGE\.)6RI¿FHUVDQGRWKHUVWDNHKROGHUV Looking on is the KFC Principal Mr. P.K. Waweru. Kenya Forestry College (KFC), the training arm He further urged the graduands to consider using the of the Service, marked the 43rd graduation on knowledge gained at the institution for the good of 13th September 2019 in a colorful ceremony at the country. Londiani, County which saw 82 On his part, the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) JUDGXDQGVUHFHLYHDZDUGVRIFHUWL¿FDWHVDQGGLSORPDV Mr. Julius Kamau expressed his intention in fast in forestry related courses. tracking the revitalization of the College as a centre While conferring the graduands for their of excellence in practical forestry training, through achievements, the Chief Guest CAS Ministry of concerted marketing strategy and campaigns. Environment and Forestry Hon. Mohamed Elmi commended the graduands and called on Kenyans “There are plans to diversify training pro- to enroll more students in the college noting that grammes at the College with the approval KFC was the only institution in the country offering of the Board that the college introduces new GLSORPDDQGFHUWL¿FDWHOHYHOVLQIRUHVWU\SURIHVVLRQ courses to increase student enrolment.” so as to build capacity in forest conservation in the said the CCF. country which he said; “still has more opportunities LQWKH¿HOGRIIRUHVWFRQVHUYDWLRQDQGPDQDJHPHQW The CCF also pointed out that the Service was in both at the county and national levels.” the process of facilitating the training of the college staff on teaching methodologies at Kenya Technical The Kenya Forest Service Board Chairman, Trainers College, as a requirement by the Technical Mr. Peter Kinyua reiterated the important role KFC and Vocational and Training Authority College plays in training and equipping forestry (TVETA) registered institutions. professionals in the country with technical forestry management skills required to manage the The graduation ceremony was attended by among country’s natural resource (forests). He called on others the Kenya Forestry Research Institute county governments to consider sponsoring more (KEFRI) Chairman Dr. Sammy Letema, KEFRI students into the college who will be trained and be of Director Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo, Chairman National EHQH¿WLQPDQDJLQJWKHGHYROYHGIRUHVWU\IXQFWLRQ Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND) Hon. Rev at the county levels. Moses Akaranga among other government and FRXQW\RI¿FLDOV

6 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Forest 2020 Project Enhances Forest Information Systems By Anne Kaari rolled out to the rest of the country, the Earth Observation technology will facilitate more timely decision making in:

forests under risks and prioritiza- tion of forests at risks to mitigate the reduction or degradation of the said forests; Documentation of t r e nds on for e s t d y n a mic s changes over time; Balancing Chief Conservator of Forests, Julius Kamau (left) and technical forest management skills Richard Tipper Executive Chairman of Ecometrica ( Right) and and technology to drive improve- Forest 2020 (Project Manager, Jamleck Ndambiri) discuss progress ments. and upcoming plans for Forest 2020 Project Delivering on Kenya’s commit- he Forests 2020 has made in mitigation of climate change, ment to forest restoration and Tnotable strides in utilizing however, the amount of climate action; Restructuring of Earth Observation technology carbon currently held in forest KFS to be more responsive and to survey and quantify forests resources has not yet been become the “center for excel- biomass in four pilot regions of lence” for Forestry Management Kwale, Mt. Elgon, Laikipia, and and Conservation in Kenya. Cherangany. Biomass estimates in private forests and wooded grasslands in In October 2019, the Chief The Earth Observation technolo- Kenya is also currently unknown. Conservator of Forests, Mr. gy is being used to improve forest The Forests 2020 Project was Julius Kamau, accompanied by the biomass estimation methods to therefore conceived to address this Project Manager Mr. Jamleck enhance the accuracy of forest glaring gap in forest information, Ndambiri and the Deputy CCF resources assessment in Kenya. particularly to inform Climate Forest Conservation and Manage- This is important because it will be Change processes. ment Ms. Charity Munyasya, paid possible to estimate carbon stocks The Project is funded by the UK a visit to the project partners in the in forests, as well as project future Space Agency through Eco metric, UK. At a meeting with Eco metric carbon stock trends in the country. a private company, in partnership Company, it became evident that with the University of Edinburgh the Earth Observation needs to This information will inform factor Arid and Semi-Arid Lands carbon trading and national and and University of Leicester, KEFRI and in Kenya, which account for more i nt ern at i onal r e p or tin g. In than 80 percent of the country’s - University of Science and Technology (JKUAT). land cover, including woodlands tion of biomass energy to guide and dry land forests, as part of tree growers and investors who Kenya is one of two countries in forest biomass. will be equipped with tools for Africa that has been selected in this making sound forest management project which is in a pilot phase, This had been omitted in initial decisions. Further, information once successful, the Earth Obser- resource assessments. Subsequent acquired from Earth Observation vation methodologies for forest meetings with the University of technology will assist County biomass estimation methods will Edinburgh and Carbomaps Com- Governments in quantifying and be rolled out to other countries in pany displayed the kind of data managing forest biomass within the continent. maps that have been generated, their jurisdiction. Students and revealing the changes in Kenya’s Forests 2020 Project has assist- forest cover. Different methods the methods and algorithms that ed to monitor forest dynamics would be utilized to assess the are being utilized and it will give country’s dry land region and high a chance for further developments. degradation and potential areas in order to increase Forests play an important role in the selected pilot areas. Once the accuracy of the data.

7 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS IRA-KFS Partner in Mangrove Restoration By Royan Ndegwa

he Kenya Forest Service and the Insurance The CCF Mr. Julius Kamau challenged Mikindani TRegulatory Authority (IRA) conducted a tree residents to venture into mangroves business by planting exercise at Mikindani, County conserving them and eventually selling them saying where over 5,000 trees were planted. The event was that would earn them income thus improving their presided over by the Environment Cabinet Secretary livelihoods. (CS) Hon. Keriako Tobiko where they also witnessed WKH VLJQLQJ RI D ¿YH\HDU IUDPHZRUN IRU FROODERUD- He observed that the government is keen on achieving tion by the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Mr. a ten percent forest cover by 2020 as per the Julius Kamau and Commissioner of Insurance and presidential directive. It is expected that every CEO IRA, Mr. Godfrey Kiptum. department within the government should commit 10 percent of its budget on environmental conservation. This MOU will facilitate the planting and adoption of mangrove trees along the 4000 kilometers coastal In the past, KFS has been partnering with Big stretch. This is one of the many collaborations the Ship Community Based Organization (CBO) to Service is in partnerships with along the coastline. rehabilitate and conserve Tudor Creek where Hon. Tobiko ordered for a speedy planting of mangroves Insurance Regulatory Authority has now adopted the along the coast region and assured that the government site and will be partnering with them in the rehabili- will fully support the project by adopting the area tation. Big Ship is a community-driven organization including planting more to cover the entire creek. working with the youth and their community in He directed the Ministry agencies to meet and work conserving the environment and promoting their on enforcing a 100-day Rapid Results Initiative of sustainable development through empowerment the planting of mangroves on the designated 4000 programs. The organization strives at creating a hectares along the Kenyan coast. healthy and sustainable environment for The Insurance Regulatory Authority has social-economic development in . contributed Ksh. 1 million towards tree growing as Their mission is to promote sustainable development Corporate Social Responsibility. They went ahead by empowering local communities in environmental and conducted another tree planting exercise at the conservation. same venue after the 100 RRI days which saw over 10,000 mangrove seedlings planted led by their Board The Service thanks the Insurance Regulatory Chairman Hon. Abdirahin Abdi. Authority for taking up responsibility and for its The CS called on Kenyans to continue planting commitment to tree growing and looks forward to trees in efforts to mitigate the effects of environ- a long partnership and encourages other Govern- mental degradation in the country. Hon. Tobiko ment Ministries, Semi-Autonomous Agencies and praised the efforts by women and children who have organizations to promote tree growing as per the continuously contributed to tree planting including Presidential directive for all State Agencies to the mangroves planted at Tudor creek in Mikindani dedicate 10% of their CSR budget towards tree Mombasa. growing.

8 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Equity Bank Group Tree Planting- Ngong Road Forest By Sylvester Okal & Michael Kitum

.)6LQFROODERUDWLRQZLWK(TXLW\%DQN*URXSGXULQJWKHODXQFKRIDPLOOLRQWUHHVSODQWLQJ initiative at Ngong road forest. quity Bank LTD and the Kenya Forest Service As per the time of launch the bank had planted Elaunched a 35 million trees planting initiative 100,000 seedlings in woodlots and planted in October 2019 at Ngong Road Forest. This was 7,108 fruit trees. This partnership will scale-up part of the celebrations to mark the bank’s 35th Equity Group’s contribution to the attainment of the anniversary. The bank has set aside Kshs.350 targeted 10% tree by 2022. million to accomplish the exercise. The bank pledged to work through its 183 branches, “Kenya Forest Service and Equity bank have a long and fruitful relationship that has seen farmers 7,000 staff as well as the leadership program access capital for farm forestry enterprise,” scholars. The bank will also work with its 14 million stated KFS Board Chairman Peter Kinyua. customers for each to plant at least 10 seedlings He said the Service is open to working with commu- each across the county. nities and other partners to realize the aspirations of all entities. The partnership between KFS and Equity Group is At the same time The Chief Conservator of designed to identify hotspots that require urgent tree Forests Mr. Julius Kamau said the Service is glad and cover and rehabilitation of degraded areas, mapping honored to have the partnership to attain the highest RXW RI DJURHFRORJLFDO ]RQHV  LGHQWL¿FDWLRQ RI gains for the environment and deepen collaboration suitable tree species for planting in the different with Equity going forward. “The partnership is a areas, identifying high quality seedling stocks VLJQL¿FDQWERRVWWRZDUGVWKHDWWDLQPHQWRIWUHH DFURVV WKH FRXQWU\ DQG VXSSO\ RI .)6 RI¿FHUV DW cover by 2022,” said the CCF. local levels to ensure proper planting & nurturing of seedlings. Equity Bank Chairman Prof. Macharia Muthure said the Equity Bank and Group Board is certain the WDUJHW LV DFKLHYDEOH DI¿UPLQJ WKH EDQN KDV D KFS is tasked to ensure production and planting of tradition of meeting and surpassing its targets. He quality seedlings for the success of the initiative. said the effects of environmental degradation are The Service through its 250 forest stations will far-reaching and encouraged tree planting in all secure the planted areas both within and outside available spaces within and outside forests. gazetted forest lands. Earlier partnership between KFS and Equity Bank During the launch, Equity CEO Dr. James Mwangi Group has seen strengthening of Farmer Field said that farmers will be incentivized within the School networks across the country and among program through the provision of commercial and other projects founded on supporting the community fruit tree species for planting on farms. for sustainable livelihood.

9 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS REDD+ Academy to Boost Capacity Amongst Forestry Stakeholders By Anne Kaari RUWKH¿UVWWLPHLQ.HQ\DWKH The PS emphasized the need for Participants were given varying FREDD+ Academy took place County Governments to get case studies from around the world. in October 2019 whereby about involved in climate change One point of concern for Kenya is 60 participants from Government, programs and in particular through the rights of Indigenous People NGOs and other private sector supporting tree growing and in Cherengany and Mount Elgon organizations were taken through forest conservation. The PS asked water towers, a matter that is being a one week training orga- the trainees to ensure they pass the looked into by a taskforce set up by nized by UNDP, UNEP, and the knowledge gained to others, to the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Ministry of Environment and ensure an increasing number of Environment and Forestry, Keriako Forestry. The training is meant citizens who understand REDD+ Tobiko. The taskforce will present to enhance knowledge amongst and contribute meaningfully to its LWV¿QGLQJVDQGUHFRPPHQGDWLRQV policy makers and implementers of strategic goals. in early 2020, this will be a critical climate change programs and step in implementation of REDD+. giving lessons on various modules, The forestry sector offers over KFS was represented by Kenya including providing international forty percent potential for Forestry College Principal, Mr experiences in handling climate mitigation of greenhouse gas Peter Waweru, Ag. Head Climate change issues. (GHG) emissions. Change, Rose Akombo, CADEP Project Manager Mr. Peter Nduati, The training includes modules on The UNFCCC hence developed among other staff. understanding climate change and REDD approach for developing the role of forests, understanding countries to provide incentives for REDD+ and the UNFCCC, reducing emissions from deforesta- drivers of deforestation and forest tion and forest degradation. degradation, developing national strategies and action plans, national REDD+ factored other additional forest monitoring systems for components, namely conservation The training is ment REDD+, forest reference levels of forest carbon stocks; sustainable to enhance knowledge for REDD+, policies and mea- management of forests (SFM); “ sures for implementation, and, enhancement of forest carbon amongst plicy makers VDIHJXDUGV ¿QDQFH LQFHQWLYHV stocks. There are three stages in and implementers of stakeholder engagement and good implementation of REDD+ which climate change governance. starts with ‘readiness’ and this programs and giving involves preparing strategies and lessons on various The training workshop was action plans and building capacity modules RI¿FLDOO\ RSHQHG E\ WKH 3ULQFLSDO for implementation. The REDD+ Secretary, Ministry of Environment academy training is part of the and Forestry, Ms. Betty Maina, readiness stage. who emphasized the importance “ of building a pool of REDD+ Trainers gave global and national experts both in Government and perspectives on each module, and private sector, to spearhead and it was evident that each country fast track implementation of is expected to adjust to national the national strategy on climate circumstances. change.

10 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Sporting Icon Eliud Kipchoge honored at Karura Forest %\%XOEXO5DWHPR 5R\DQ1GHJZD The guests also had the opportunity to plant commemorative trees at a setting adjacent to the pristine Amani Gardens.

The mini-marathon which preceded the tree SODQWLQJSURFHHGLQJVZDVÀDJJHGRIIE\WKH&&)DQG covered a 4km course through the canopied trails inside Karura Forest. Speaking after the mock race, the CCF noted the apparent connection that exists between forests and sports in general.

He further articulated that, “forests provide ideal training grounds for Kenyan athletes and as a result, plans are underway for Eliud Kipchoge to adopt Kaptagat Forest in .” With Kenya Forest Service mandated to conserve, protect and develop forests and forest resources, “the Service intends to enhance ecotourism in all natural forests and identify sites for athletic tracks in order to promote equitable forest conservation,” Said the CCF.

The Chief Conservator of Forests also appreciated the organizers for selecting Karura forest as the site Marathon World Record holder Eliud Kipchoge (*+WRJHWKHUZLWKWKH&KLHI&RQVHUYDWRURI of the event. He encouraged corporate entities to Forests Mr. Julius Kamau water a tree they planted delve into forest conservation as part of their CSR at Karura Forest after the marathon event. activities and highlighted Karura forest as an arathon champion Eliud Kipchoge EGH, existing testament to the innate power of cross- Mplanted a commemorative tree alongside sectoral involvement in forest conservation. the Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau during a family mock-marathon outing Karura Forest Reserve is located in the northern held in November 2019. The event organized by part of city. At 1,041 hectares, it is one of Isuzu East Africa at Karura Forest, was aimed the largest urban gazetted forests in the world. The at feting the global sporting icon following his forest contains nearly all the 605 species of wildlife record-breaking exploits in Vienna. found in Nairobi including three types of antelopes. It is managed by Kenya Forest Service (KFS). The event featured key personalities from the corporate world led by Isuzu EA MD Rita forest provide ideal training grounds Kavashe, Centum CEO James Mworia and “for Kenyan athletes and as a result, representatives from the Kenya Private Sector plans are underway for Eliud Kipchoge to adopt Kaptagat Alliance (KEPSA). Forest in Uasin Gishu County

11 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 “ A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Launch of the Mara Mara Participatory Forest Management Plan (PFMP) By Benedetta Wasonga

The CCF also noted the importance of empowering Community Forest Associations (CFAs) in forest protection and conservation by HQJDJLQJWKHPDVWKH¿UVWOLQHRI defense against any forest illegalities.

The FMA, as a management tool, grants the CFA user rights to participate in the conservation and management of the forest reserve which covers an area of 16,700 Ha and is part of the South West Mau Forest within the Konoin Sub County of County.

Mara Mara Forest Reserve is one of the best-conserved forest blocks CCF Mr. Julius Kamau hands over the signed Mara of the larger Mau Complex 0DUD3DUWLFLSDWRU\)RUHVW0DQDJHPHQW3ODQWRWKH*RYHUQRU of Dr. Hilary Barchok (Right) Ecosystem with the least reported degradation and through the FMA, he Chief Conservator of Service will engage with the Mara the Service hopes to engage TForests (CCF) Mr. Julius Mara CFA in the conservation closely with the forest adjacent Kamau presided over the launch of of the forest by non-extractive community towards the restoration the Mara Mara Participatory Forest methods such as ecotourism, and preservation of the forest Management Plan (PFMP) for recreational and cultural activities, block. the period 2019-2023. The CCF bee keeping and honey harvest- also signed the Forest Manage- ing, grass harvesting, collection of The CCF was accompanied ment Agreement (FMA) between medicinal herbs, wild fruits and by Bomet County Governor KFS and Mara Mara Community vegetables, seedling production, Dr. Hilary Barchok, Managing Forest Association in Mara Mara ZDWHU DEVWUDFWLRQ VFLHQWL¿F DQG Director of Finlays Mr. Simon Forest Station, Bomet Coun- educational activities, and other Hutchinson, Bomet Assistant ty. The event involved various EHQH¿WV County Commissioner Mr. activities including tree planting Ezekiel Amonde, KFS Head of and a visit to conservation sites Speaking during the signing of the Management Plans Dr. Elizabeth within the forests where the CPA FMA, the CCF noted that Bomet Wambugu, Forest Conservation undertakes IGAs like bee keeping. County is among the Counties that Committee Chairman Prof. Eric have already signed the Transition Koech, Head of Mau Forest The development process of the Implementation Plans (TIPS) Conservancy Mr. George Njenga, PFMP was supported by Filays which informs the legal frame- Bomet Ecosystem Conservator (K) and ISLA in collaboration work through which the Service Ms. Anne Nyaoke among others with KFS, Bomet County and the County will engage in the present. Government, WRA and KTDA. development of Forest programs The PFMP will form the for the devolved forestry function. background through which the

12 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Forest Adjacent Communities Awarded for Conservation By Michael Kitum that, going forward, KFS in partnership with the National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND) will develop a National CFA Awarding Scheme to recognize passion and award efforts in tree growing and forest conservation.

On his part the Bomet Governor, Dr. Hillary Barchok expressed the commitment of his administration in supporting conservation efforts through the signing of the Transi- tion Implementation Plans (TIPs) which forms the legal framework The Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau presenting of engagement between the two .LSWXQJD&)$PHPEHUVWKH2YHUDOO:LQQHU¶V$ZDUG levels of government stipulating RU WKH ¿UVWWLPH &RPPXQLW\ CFA members awarded in four the responsibilities of counties FForest Associations in the categories based on CFA G o v er- via-a-vis that of the Service noting country have been awarded for nance, Business and that forest management is a their contribution towards forest Enterprise Development in devolved function. conservation, management, and Forestry, Forest Conservation and protection. Management, and Sustainable Governor Barchok committed Forest Practices. to supporting the conservation This took place on 21st Novem- efforts of Chepalungu by allocating ber, 2019 in Chepalungu forest, Speaking during the award funds towards the construction of a Bomet County where the Chief ceremony, the CCF acknowledged forest station in Chepalungu. Conservator of Forests (CCF) the complimentary role CFAs Mr. Julius Kamau launched the play in the conservation of forest “As part of my Government’s Inaugural 2019 Community resources in the country as commitment, I have instructed Forest Associations (CFA) co-managers with the Government the relevant department to initiate Awards. through KFS and other stakehold- the procurement process for the ers. construction of a forest station in The award scheme, organized by Chepalungu Forest station the National Alliance of Community “The main objective of this pilot &KHVDPEDL EORFN LQ WKLV ¿QDQFLDO Forest Associations (NACOFA) award“ scheme is to recognize year,” said Governor Barchok. with support from World-Wide CFAs actively taking part in forest Fund for Nature (WWF), KFS, conservation and management in NACOFA Chairman and Vice East African Wildlife Society, parts of the Mau Forest Chairman of the KFS Board and Kenya Forest Working Group Complex.” said the CCF. Mr. Peter Wandera encouraged aims to create public awareness on communities to adopt best the importance of CFAs in forest The CCF noted the importance“ farming practices that coincide protection, conservation, and of the award scheme in creating with the KFS commitment of management. awareness among forest adjacent conservation towards the attain- communities on the importance of The event saw 11 CFAs namely; ment of a 10% tree cover by 2022. forest conservation and manage- Mara Mara, Olenguruone, Sururu, He urged the youth in forest ment and thereby enhancing their Chepalungu, Nyangores, adjacent communities to join CFAs participation towards the attain- Kaptunga, Ndoinet, Itare, and carry out IGAs that will uplift ment of 10% tree cover by 2022. Olposimoru, Nairotia, and Likia Additionally, the CCF expressed their livelihoods.

13 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Signing of the Forest Management Agreement (FMA) for Kiang’ombe & Kianjiru Community Forests Associations (CFAs) By Sylvester Okal & Michael Kitum

Deputy CCF (FCM) Charity Munyasya handing over the signed Forest Management $JUHHPHQW )0$ IRU.LDQMLUXDQG.LDQJ¶RPEH&)$VWR(PEX&RXQW\&(&0IRU1DWXUDO 5HVRXUFHV0U-RVHSKDW.LWKXPEX

he Forest Management Participatory Management Plans protecting the forest for the sake of TAgreement (FMA) between (PFMPs) for Kianjiru Forest and the future inhabitants of the area. County Government of Embu and Kiang’ombe Forest Hills. The The community pledged to Kiang’ombe & Kianjiru Commu- FMA covers a total of 2,104Ha compliment efforts of Kenya nity Forests Associations (CFAs) (Kiang’ombe Forest) and 1,004Ha Forest Service to restore the ZDVRI¿FLDOO\VLJQHGDW.DPEDFKL (Kianjiru). forest to its former glory; a topic School Grounds, on that was adversely mentioned by 1st October 2019. Speaking during the signing local leaders during the ceremony. ceremony, the Deputy Chief The preparation and writing of Conservator of Forests Conser- The signing of the FMA was the FMA was facilitated by the vation Management, Charity followed by graduation of Farmer Capacity Development Project for Munyasya urged the community Field Schools where a total of 217 Sustainable Forest Management and the stakeholders to ensure farmers graduated after studying (CADEP-SFM) a project based at implementation of the FMA is for a period of one year. Kenya Forest Service Headquar- done conclusively to contribute The graduation ceremonies were ters. to the achievement of the targeted held in Siakago, Kambachi and 10% tree cover by 2022. Ishiara Sub counties in Embu County. CADEP-SFM is a technical The Embu CEC for Environment cooperation project funded by Josephat Kithumbu stated that the The County government efforts the Government of Japan through County Government will allocate in conservation was evident in the the Japan International Corpo- Kshs. 5million to support the two VXSSRUWRIWKHIDUPHU¿HOGVFKRRO ration Agency-Kenya (JICA) CFAs in their forest conservation program by the Environment and the Government of Kenya. activities. He urged the commu- Department throughout the study CADEP-SFM also facilitated nity living around Kianjiru Forest period. the preparation and writing of to keep giving a helping hand in

14 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS More Tree Planting Can Transform Nyanza Conservancy’s Economic Fortunes By Charles Ngunjiri A team of KFS senior forest tion of 3-4 bags an acre per year. and inevitably, increased cost of RI¿FHUV UHFHQWO\ XQGHUWRRN WUHH “As a result, households use much WKH¿VKWRWKHFRQVXPHUV planting campaigns in Nyanza of their income to buy food thus Water of high sediment load is also Conservancy. The team that was compromising their ability to save unsuitable for recreation activities. led by Mr. Samuel Muriithi, and diversify their livelihoods”, he Head of Economics, Licensing observes. Erosion is also evident This may explain why some and Marketing at the Kenya from high sediment load in most water“ sports such as skiing Forest Service was out to drum of the rivers draining into Lake in some sections of the lake support towards increasing Kenya’s Victoria. He says previous have since been abandoned, forest cover to 10% by the year studies have shown that river he says. 2022. Nyando had a sediment load of 900 units against the optimal level Low forest cover increases the The campaign in Nyanza of 50 units. The sediment load has rate of runoff. This was evident “ Conservancy was undertaken negative impacts on communities from the enormous amount of in four counties namely , who depended on rivers for water ZDWHUÀRZLQJDFURVVIDUPVLQDOO , and Migori and the health of the Lake. Water the counties visited. in partnership with the respective of high sediment load is known National and County Govern- to block water canals in irrigation Storm water causes damage on ments. schemes in the region. roads, houses and other important This reduces the water available amenities. The forest cover in Nyanza for irrigation and increases the Conservancy in generally low water canal maintenance costs. All Mr. Muriithi says the severity of against the national average forest WKHVH UHGXFH HFRQRPLF EHQH¿WV ÀRRGV ZRXOG KDYH EHHQ OHVV LI cover of 7.2%. County from farming and related activities. forest cover was higher. This is leads with 7.29% and is above because trees increase soil water the national average. However, Mr. Muriithi observes that holding capacity therefore the counties of Homa Bay water of high turbidity is known to reducing the amount of runoff. (2.59%), Kisii (2.62%), Migori be a good host for parasites and Most households in the region (0.64%), Kisumu (0.44%) and vectors which increase prevalence GHSHQG RQ ¿UHZRRG DV WKH PDLQ Siaya (0.42%) are way below of diseases. Human disease can source of energy for cooking. Lack the national average. Mr. Samuel lead to high economic losses in RI HQRXJK ¿UHZRRG IRU GRPHVWLF Muriithi explained to the public terms of high treatment costs and use has adversely affected the DQGYDULRXVRI¿FLDOVWKHLPSDFWRI morbidity. High turbidity levels in economic welfare of some house- low forest cover to the economic water also raises water treatment holds particularly in Kano plains. welfare of the people in the region costs. High sediment load is known with a view of spurring increased to decrease water holding capacity “It was reported that women spend tree planting and better their own of water reservoirs. This not only about three days a week fetching economic fortunes. reduces water available but also IRU ¿UHZRRG LQ WKH QHLJKERULQJ reduces the economic life span County of Kericho, time that Lack of tree cover has of water reservoirs in the region. would have otherwise been used to exposed“ soil to severe The high amounts of sediments carry out other essential household erosion leading to drained into the Lake Victoria lead DFWLYLWLHVLI¿UHZRRGZDVDYDLODEOH loss of soil fertility, to an increase of nutrients such as on farms”, observes Mr. Muriithi. notes Mr. Muriithi. phosphorous and nitrates. These Mr. Muriithi says the message to further lead to growth of green stakeholders in the counties with He says soil erosion at rate of DOJDHZKLFKFRPSHWHVZLWK¿VKIRU least forest cover in the region is 70-80 tons per hectare has “ been R[\JHQ7KLVUHVXOWVWRIDOOLQJ¿VK geared towards creating under- recorded in several hotspots in stocks in the lake, leading to loss standing on the direct linkages the region. This in turn has led to RILQFRPHIRU¿VKHUPHQLQFUHDVHG between optimal forest cover and low land productivity to the point FRVW RI ¿VKLQJ DV ¿VKHUPHQ DUH their economic well being. where farms record maize produc- forced to go further into the lake

15 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS He says all is not lost as most KFS athletics team excels in the 16th. County Governments visited committed to increase budgetary Edition of the Ndakaini Half Marathon allocation for tree planting. The County Commissioners who are in %XOEXO5DWHPR %HQHGHWWD:DVRQJD charge of coordination of National Government activities in Counties were also not left behind. They committed to mobilize Chiefs and their Assistants to spearhead tree planting campaigns in their areas of jurisdiction. There are numerous mitigation measures to increase the forest cover in the region. These are highlighted by wide and active stakeholders’ engagement that include National and County Governments, Non-Governmental Organizations and Community Participants during the 10Km race at the 2019 Based Organizations. Ndakaini half marathon According to the KFS Head of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Headquarters and North Rift Conservancy Conservancy Nyanza Mr. Dedan Ndiritu, wide stakeholder partic- Athletic Teams participated in the annual Ndakaini Marathon held in ipation is realizing increased tree Murang’a County on 9th November, 2019. planting in the region and believes the low forest cover counties can The KFS Team was pitted against other corporate organizations most better their fortunes through notably, Tima Flow and Royal Media. KFS came in second overall after increased tree planting. 7LPDÀRZLQWKHFRUSRUDWHFDWHJRU\IROORZHGE\5R\DO0HGLDLQWKLUG He says the Kenya Forest Service position to cap off the top three standings. Forest rangers Hosea Rotich is working with Community Forest DQG=HEHGHH.LSURQRIURP1RUWK5LIW&RQVHUYDQF\¿QLVKHGVHFRQGDQG Associations as per the provisions WKLUGUHVSHFWLYHO\ZLWK(OLXG.RVJHLDQG(OYLV.LSOLPR¿QLVKLQJWKDQG of the Forest Conservation and 26th in the 10km men’s category. In the women’s category, Gladys Birir Management Act 2016. DQG=DGLH.LSUXWD¿QLVKHGWKDQGWKUHVSHFWLYHO\WRFDSRIIDODXGDEOH “We are seeking and implementing performance from both sets of athletes. practical solutions to raise the tree cover in the region, we are Speaking after the award ceremony, team patron Patrick Namagwa working with CFAs, particularly commended the professionalism of the athletes and their desire to always women and youth in raising improve on their performances. He further articulated on the training seedlings which are planted in regime of the athletes as being the catalyst for their top performance. public spaces and on farm,” Mr. Ndiritu notes. He added that, “the outcome of this race doesn’t come as a surprise to PH DV LW LV D UHÀHFWLRQ RI WKH ZRUN ZH KDYH EHHQ GRLQJ RYHU WKH \HDU Mr. Ndiritu notes that in counties DQG WKH DWKOHWHV DUH EHQH¿WLQJ IURP WKH VDFUL¿FHV WKH\ KDYH PDGH´ that are adjacent to the lake, the The team also participated in the Chebara Dam Half Marathon, 6HUYLFH LV ZRUNLQJ ZLWK ¿VKLQJ Cheptongei Forest Station in Elgeyo Marakwet County and KASS entities both in raising and planting trees. Marathon to wrap up the local 2019 athletics calendar. “Forest cover is an insurance In a side event, Ndakaini Dam Environment Conservation Association DJDLQVWÀRRGVIRRGLQVHFXULW\ declining water quality and (NDEKA), pledged to plant 350,000 tree seedlings in the Aberdares quantity, water borne diseases Forest during the 2019 edition of the Marathon with the aim of safeguard- and reduced human welfare,” ing the environment and contributing to the national efforts in attaining DI¿UPV0U0XULLWKL 10% forest cover by 2022.

16 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS MARA DAY CELEBRATIONS 2019 foretell its future. Sixty minutes of degradation of Mara ecosys- By Benedetta Wasonga tem can compromise the future of an entire generations” Hon Adam Kigoma Malima observed while emphasizing the need for coherent and integrated actions to sustain- ably manage Mara River Basin. Thematic areas of the seminar were tentatively emphasized on Environment and Ecosystem of Mara River Basin, Socio-econom- ic issues and livelihood in Mara River Basin, importance of Mara River Water to the Community and the Role of key players in Mara River Basin for Sustainability and improved livelihoods.

Recognizing the importance and challenges of the Mara ecosys- The HOC Mau Conservancy Mr. John Njenga taking Visitors WKURXJKWKH.)6VWDQGGXULQJWKH0DUD'D\FHOHEUDWLRQV tem, the 10th Sectorial Council of Ministers for the Lake Victoria Basin, held in Kigali, Rwanda on enya Forest Service team led is “I, Mara River-Stand with me 4th May 2012, declared every 15th Kby the Head of Conservancy (Mimi, Mto Mara-Nisimamie)”. September “Mara Day”, to (HoC) Mau Mr. George Njenga, The Mara river depends on the coincide with the great migra- joined the Kenyan delegation Mau Forest complex which tion of wildlife from Serengeti under the banner of the Ministry sustains more than one million National Park in the United Repub- of Environment and Forestry, to people for agriculture and clean lic of Tanzania to the Maasai-Mara visit Tanzania to celebrate the 8th drinking water both in Kenya and National Game Reserve in the Mara Day in Mugumu town, south Tanzania. The Maasai Mara Game Republic of Kenya. of Serengeti within the Mara eco- Reserve which is categorized system. as the 8th wonder of the world The Mara Day Celebrations are under UNESCO is dependent guided by three inter-woven objec- The objective of this annual on the Mara river which cannot tives: to create awareness among celebration is to create awareness survive without the Mau Forest key stakeholders of the impor- on the importance of protection Complex. tance of Mara River Basin and its and conservation of Mara river resources; recognize and basin and it’s sources, to recognize The event was preceded by involve the contribution of different the contribution of different actors evidence-based seminar papers public and private actors in man- in the management of Mara river centered on four thematic agement of Mara River Resourc- basin and to promote public-private areas each emphasizing the es and to promote public-private partnerships to improve manage- current state of the Mara ecosys- partnerships as a pathway towards ment of Mara river’s resources tem and action-oriented recom- sustainable management of Mara and biodiversity. mendations for the sustainable River Waters and biodiversity. water resources, biodiversity and Held annually on September the livelihoods in Mara River Basin. Other members of the team 15th, Mara Day incorporates a included the Ecosystem Con- different theme each year. The ³:HQHHG GHHS UHÀHFWLRQV RQ WKH servator (EC) Narok, Mr. Mwai theme of this year’s celebrations state of the Mara River Basin to Muraguri.

17 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS CCF Visits Rangers Deployed In Maasai Mau Forest Restoration By Michael Kitum their dedication that often required them putting their lives in danger to ensure the Maasai Mau forest is protected and conserved.

The Maasai Mau forest is an important water catchment which forms part of the larger Mau forest ecosystem; the largest indigenous forest in East Africa and also the largest drainage basin in Kenya. Numerous rivers originate from the forest including South Ewaso Ng’iro, Sondu River, Mara River, and Njoro River among others. These rivers feed into Lake National Park, Lake The Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Mr. Julius Kamau posing Natron, and Lake Victoria whose for a group photo with rangers deployed in the Maasai Mau forest waters are the source of the largest restoration when he visited operation camps during Huduma Day river in Africa; River Nile hence National Holiday. the need to protect the pristine ollowing an attack on a The CCF also commended the water tower. FKenya Forest Service’s Rang- team for their bravery, wisdom, er by settlers prior to the lapse and tolerance in managing the of an eviction notice to illegal incidence. settlers living in Sierra Leone area of Maasai Mau forest, the “I commend your tolerance in Chief Conservator of Forests managing the incidence when one (CCF) Mr. Julius Kamau marked of you was shot by an arrow in the the Huduma Day Public Holiday thigh; you exercised profession- (10th October, 2019) by visiting DOLVP DV DUPHG RI¿FHUV E\ EHLQJ the Multi-Agency Security Team humane and not retaliating with deployed in the Maasai Mau brutal force,” said CCF Kamau. The CCF while visiting Forest Restoration Operation. Ranger Mr. Victor Mwendwa at The CCF visited three joint Narok Cottage Hospital The CCF also visited Forest enforcement outposts namely; Ranger Victor Mwendwa at Narok Olposimoru South (KassFM), Cottage Hospital, Loliondo, and Nkoben Opera- I commend your tolerance who was attacked in the line of tion Camp, where he took time to “in managing the incidence duty while on a patrol at “Kass interact with the rangers deployed when one of you was shot FM” area in Maasai Mau. from Kenya Forest Service, by an arrow in the thigh; you Kenya Wildlife Service, and exercised professionalism as He encouraged Mr. Mwendwa, Administration Police. DUPHGRI¿FHUVE\EHLQJ together with his colleagues from humane and not retaliating the joint enforcement, for their Throughout the visit, the CCF with brutal force. great commitment in protecting gave the message of goodwill and and conserving forest resources in VXSSRUW WR WKH IURQWOLQH RI¿FHUV WKHFRXQWU\IRUWKHEHQH¿WRIWKH whom he referred to as the current and future generations. ‘environment ambassadors’ for “

18 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Forestry Society of Kenya National Policy Dialogue By Michael Kitum It was also observed that the forestry sector in Kenya was facing challenges by being in the limelight following among other the mau eviction and restoration intention by the government whose eviction deadline was almost lapsing, and the ongoing moratorium on logging activities in Kenya that brought about a high demand for timber and a lot of trade from across borders. But despite all that, the participants were reminded to uphold professionalism and integrity in WKHLU ¿HOGV RI RSHUDWLRQV )DUP forestry plantations were cited as *URXSSKRWRRISDUWLFLSDQWVGXULQJWKH)6.1DWLRQDO3ROLF\ an approach that would be used Dialogue in to bridge the ever rising demand for timber and wood products in The Forestry Society of Kenya sionals join hands with members the country to reduce pressure on (FSK) held its Annual National of public to plant trees at Lurambi public and state forests. Policy Dialogue on 26th September, Forest station, as part of the launch 2019 in Kakamega County with of the short rains tree planting Five groups were formed at the the theme of the year’s confer- campaigns across the country for conference and tasked to come up ence being “Future of the Forest Kakamega County. with position statements on the Sector; Inspiring Innovations and following topical issues facing the Sustainable The conference was guided by seven country; the Maasai Mau eviction Investments.” pillars of engagements namely; notice, the Ogiek, ten (10) percent the evolution of the forestry sector tree cover strategy, the timber Participants of the two day in Kenya and future trajectories, moratorium, and the polythene conference were drawn from forestry research, milestones and paper ban by the Ministry of various institutions ranging from opportunities, local policies and Environment and Forestry. The county governments, private legislations, international policies, submissions from the groups sector, universities, community commitments and their achieve- would then be used going forward representatives, and government ments, and forestry investments. to offer professional guidance as institutions; including the Kenya FSK and also inform policy. Forest Service who sponsored the The conference agreed that the highest number of attendants to forestry sector in the country was At the end of the conference, an SDUWLFLSDWH DQG EHQH¿W IURP WKH evolving with many opportunities election was called as it was an engagements of the National especially on aspects of technol- election year according to the FSK Policy Dialogue. ogy and innovations in geospatial calendar and members choose a mapping among other areas which new team to take up leadership. The Chief Conservator of Forests could be tapped into to improve Among the stewards chosen were &&) 0U-XOLXV.DPDXRI¿FLDOO\ the profession in the country. Mr. Noor Hussein from Kenya opened the conference which Forest Service (KFS) as the Vice aimed to provide a platform for Speakers also acknowledged Chairperson of FSK, Ms. Miriam members to deliberate on efforts in forestry research on tree Kamau as the Vice Secretary, and emerging trends, issues affecting species for the dry lands such as Mr. George Tarus from KFS to the sector, as well as come up Melia volkensii and Acacia tortilis, FKDLUWKH6FLHQWL¿F&RPPLWWHH with viable solutions that would and the promotion of bamboo. The Forestry Society of Kenya address and guide policies with is a membership organization of an aim of achieving excellence in Carbon trading was viewed as a professional foresters in Kenya, sustainable forestry and natural new emerging market in Kenya registered in 1979 to provide a resources management. and participants representing all forum for professional foresters to sectors in forestry were urged to contribute to national development The CCF also led a tree planting think along tapping on the market and the environmental conserva- which saw the forestry profes- IRUWKHEHQH¿WRIIRUHVWU\ IXQGLQJ  tion agenda.

19 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary leads public in planting trees in Mt. Kenya into the forest looking for spaces By Michael Kitum to plant trees because of how well this forest is protected.” He said. He also cautioned and put on notice all members of the public who have encroached on any of the 18 gazetted forest water towers to “start packing and prepare to leave forest lands” noting that the forest cover in Kenya after independence stood at 30% and had reduced drastically over years to the current 7.2% due to encroachment and illegal activities. He also warned against the illegal abstraction of water downstream. &DELQHW6HFUHWDU\0LQLVWU\RI(QYLURQPHQWDQG)RUHVWU\.HULDNR 7RELNRODXQFKLQJWKH&DVWOH)RUHVW7UHH3ODQWLQJLQ0W.HQ\D While appreciating several environment champions, CS The Cabinet Secretary Ministry of The CS thanked CFAs countrywide Tobiko commended students for Environment and Forestry Hon. for taking up forest conservation embracing tree planting whom Keriako Tobiko on 9th November, adding that forests belong to the he said, more often than not were 2019 led a tree planting at Castle people and communities; associated with negative energy, Forest Station (Thumaita Block), “The Government only comes and thus thanked the students from which forms part of the larger Mt. in as a guarantor to ensure that Kirinyaga University for sparing Kenya Forest Ecosystem in Kirin- forests are protected for the people their time to plant trees with yaga County where over 20,000 of Kenya, and the forest adjacent everyone else present. indigenous tree seedlings were communities must be incorporated planted purely for conservation. in joint management of the forests The exercise brought together all This was part of the launch of DQGVKDULQJRILWVEHQH¿WVWKURXJK Environment SAGAs including the short rains tree planting drive CFAs.” the Kenya Forest Service, Ministry across the country. of Interior and Coordination of CS Tobiko also emphasized National Government, Kirinyaga Speaking during the event, the the importance for County University, the forest adjacent CS noted the importance of trees $GPLQLVWUDWLRQVWRKDYHFHUWL¿HG community through the Castle to livelihoods pointing out that registers of tree nurseries Community Users Forest Asso- forests purify the air, form water countrywide where public and ciation, and the organizers Green catchment for rivers, and provide environment stakeholders can Spaces (CBO). fruits among other ecological acquire quality seedlings and benefits. He urged Kenyans to boost the income generating embrace tree growing in farmlands. activities by youth and CBOs with Today, we actually went deep “Based on Kenya’s Census nursery establishments. “into the forest looking for Report for 2019, if all the 47 spaces to plant trees because million Kenyans plant at least 5 to The CS noted the good efforts of how well this forest is 10 trees annually, surpassing the by the Service in collaboration recommended 10% forest cover with the local community in protected.” by 2022 will easily be achieved.” keeping the forest ecology pristine: said the CS. “Today, we actually went deep “ 20 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Students adopt trees for their survival By Michael Kitum The two organizations also aim to establish model tree nurseries targeting to have at least 100,000 tree seedlings that students can and raise plant as part of their co-curricular activity.

Day scholars were also issued with seedlings for planting at private farms.

Also present during the launch was County CECM Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Sanitation Mr. Frederick Kinyua who expressed the The Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau launching county’s commitment to working the Adopt a Tree Program at Karatina Vocational Training Centre with KFS towards growing the (KVTC) in . region’s tree cover especially in ASAL areas within the County The Chief Conservator of Forests county to various public institu- such as Kieni. (CCF) Mr. Julius Kamau launched tions including primary schools, the Adopt a Tree Program, Nyeri police stations, and tertiary Hearts of Green Organization is a County Edition on 11th October, institutions for planting. registered NGO operating in the 2019 at Karatina Vocational ¿HOGRIHQYLURQPHQWFRQVHUYDWLRQ Training Centre (KVTC). This .)6WHFKQLFDORI¿FHUVZHUHDOVR was through a partnership deployed to provide technical The ‘Adopt a Tree’ program targets between Kenya Forest Service support and knowledge as well as students to plant and nurture trees and Hearts of Green Organization distribute the seedlings. and ensure a high survival rate as that incorporated the Ministry of well as inculcate a conservation Interior & Coordination of The CCF in his remarks pointed culture to the young generation. So National Government, Nyeri out the importance of partnerships far, the NGO has worked with 88 County Government, and between all levels of Government public schools where over 132,000 the Kenya Water Towers Agency and Non-State actors towards WUHHVKDYHEHHQSODQWHGDFURVV¿YH among other entities. raising tree cover in the counties namely; , Nakuru, country to attain the 10% forest tree Nakuru, Nyandarua, Laikipia, and The partnership brings onboard cover by 2022 as per the President Muranga. Most tree species students from public schools and Directive. In addition, the CCF planted in schools are fruit trees the public in tree planting noted the importance of planting for their benefits as well as initiatives with an aim of greening trees for better livelihood in the indigenous trees purely meant for counties by facilitating partici- present and future generations. environment conservation. pants with tree seedlings for planting which they adopt for ³7UHHV KHOS LQ DLU SXUL¿FDWLRQ The tree planting activities are growth throughout their school and to appreciate the importance usually conducted in a 35 minutes duration. of trees picture the amount of coordinated tree planting marathon monetary resources one would across the participant schools, the Over 7,000 assorted tree seedlings require to sustain life through equivalent of a one-class lesson. were planted at the KVTC oxygen support in a hospital if Together with KFS, the organiza- compound with 30,000 more trees did not aid in the process.” tion also has a monitoring program being distributed within the said the CCF. on areas planted to ensure over 95% success in growth. 21 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PICTORIAL

1 2

The Deputy , H.E Dr. awards a trophy Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry Hon. Keriako Tobiko to the KFS Nairobi Conservancy team during the ASK Nairobi SRVHVZLWK.)6RI¿FHUVDWWKH1DLUREL,QWHUQDWLRQDO7UDGH)DLU International Trade fair. 3

The launch of the #Mau10MillionTrees initiative towards restoration of the Maasai Mau Water Tower.

4 5

Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau visits rangers The Chief Conservator of Forest Julius Kamau poses for a photo with KFS deployed in Maasai Mau Restoration. (QIRUFHPHQWDQG&RPSOLDQFH'LYLVLRQRI¿FHUVDWD+RO\)DPLO\%DVLOLFD

22 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PICTORIAL

6 7

A tree planting activity during the International Day for the Conservation of Community Forest Association members entertaining guests Mangrove Ecosystems in Vanga, . during a Farmer Field Schools Graduation ceremony.

8 9

Community Forest Association members pose for a photo with their Friends of Karura Forest conduct a tree planting session in Karura Forest FHUWL¿FDWHVGXULQJ)DUPHU)LHOG6FKRROJUDGXDWLRQLQ(PEX after work hours.

10 11

.)6RI¿FHUV(PEX&RXQW\*RYHUQPHQWUHSUHVHQWDWLYHVDQG&)$SRVH The Chief Conservator of Forests Julius Kamau joined Kenya Wildlife with signed PFMP and FMA. Service during the celebration of Conservation Heroes Day.

12

Participants of the Forest Challenge heading out into the forest to tackle the obstacles.

23 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Spearheading the implementation of the ten percent tree cover strategy farmers geared towards farm forestry enterprise, launched a 35 million tree planting initiative worth 350 million Kenya Shillings during the 2019/20 period. This was unveiled by Equity Bank CEO Dr. James Mwangi in a tree planting exercise to mark the Bank’s 35th Anniversary in business where a total of 3,500 trees were planted at Ngong Road Forest Station. &60LQLVWU\RI)RUHLJQ$IIDLUV 0)$ $PE0RQLFD-XPDDQG WKH0LQLVWHURI)RUHLJQ$IIDLUV5HSXEOLFRI6XULQDPH+(0V The Service in collaboration with

24 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PROJECT NEWS

“Through a partnership with media, an increase in Academic Institutions, such as the University of public awareness on new approaches in forest (UoE) have also expressed a commitment management technologies and techniques will be towards forestry as a key pillar in the realization of spread, as well as encouraging farmers to invest in the Big 4 Agenda. UoE have signed a partnership commercial forestry since there is a market demand framework for collaboration with KFS, through which for provision of timber in the region that has not been the two organizations will establish a model tree met,” said the CCF. nursery at the institution in Eldoret to scale up quality seedlings production to meet the institution’s needs The Service has also engaged with County and the region as well. Governments towards the implementation of the Presidential Directive. In a meeting with the County UoE will also adopt a forest block in North Rift Assemblies Forum (CAF) Secretary General Hon. Conservancy for rehabilitation and also as a practical’s Kipkurui Chepkwony, the CCF urged county ground for the faculty of forestry where students will assemblies through the Secretariat to mainstream be encouraged to plant and adopt trees for survival forestry extension roles into existing agricultural during their school duration. extension services in regards to the implementa- tion of the Agriculture (Farm Forestry) Rules 2009 The short rains tree planting season in October also which requires 10% of every farm to be put under saw counties such as Kakamega, Uasin Gishu and forestry development. To that effect, KFS deployed Nandi take advantage of the rains to plant trees. Five Technical Forest Advisors in counties to build (5) million tree seedlings were planted over the period capacity for effective implementation of forestry in six forest stations in Uasin Gishu County namely; programs developed by county governments. Timboroa, Nabkoi, Lorenge, Kipkurere, Cengalo and Kapseret forest stations. KFS has also signed a partnership with the National Oil Corporation of Kenya (NOCK) for the establishment of tree nurseries, raising and sourcing of seedlings for tree growing, and Through“ a partnership with media, an increase in promotion of tree planting activities around the public awareness on new approaches in forest Mt. Kenya ecosystem. management technologies and techniques will be spread, as well as encouraging farmers to invest in The agreement was signed between the CCF, commercial forestry since there is a market demand Mr. Julius Kamau and NOCK CEO Ms. Mary Jane for provision of timber in the region that has not been Mwangi and was witnessed by the KFS Board met, said the CCF. Chairman Mr. Peter Kinyua and his equivalent from NOCK Mr. Kibuga Kariithi. The agreement commit- WHGWRWKHSODQWLQJRI¿YH  PLOOLRQWUHHVWKURXJK “ the initiative as well as the introduction of subsidized LPG for retail by Community Forest Associations (CFA) in the region as an income-generating activity as well as an alternative source of energy so as to reduce pressure on forest.

25 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PROJECT NEWS Capacity Development Project for Sustainable Forest Management: Accelerating Forestry in ASALs By Charles Ngunjiri

The Capacity Development Project for Sustainable achieving the National Forest cover target of 10%. Forest Management (CADEP-SFM) is a technical The project’s purpose is to strengthen capacity at cooperation project between the Government of National and County levels of Government for Kenya and the Government of Japan. sustainable forest management.

The project rolled out in June 2016 and is expected 7KH(PEXDQG7DLWD7DYHWD&RXQWLHVZHUHLGHQWL¿HG to be completed by June 2021. The project is to pilot the component on Forestry Extension in Arid EHLQJ LPSOHPHQWHG WKURXJK ¿YH FRPSRQHQWV and Semi-Arid Lands. including Policy Support, Forestry Extension in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, REDD+ Readiness, Tree “In Embu and Taita Taveta Counties we are Breeding and Regional Cooperation. managing Farmer Forestry Field Schools, supporting development of Participatory Forest Management “The Kenya Forest Service is implementing Plans for forests within County Government two components, the Forestry Extension in jurisdiction, and promoting growing of Melia ASALs through private sector involvement volkensii,” notes Mr. Nduati. He adds that the and, the Reducing emissions from deforesta- project is also working with private sector actors and tion and forest degradation components,” NGOs in promoting growing of forests in Arid and says Mr. Peter Nduati the Project Manager. Semi-Arid Areas.

He notes that the project’s overall goal is promotion The project has had some key achievements that of sustainable forest management in Kenya towards include completion and launch of two Participatory

26 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PROJECT NEWS

Forest Management Plans for Kianjiru and Engaging Youth in Forest Kiangombe forests in Embu. And subsequently signing of Forest Management Agreement between Conservation Community Forest Associations Kianjiru and Kiangombe forests, and the County Government of Embu.

In Taita Taveta County, the Participatory Forest Management Plan for Mwambirwa Mbololo forest KDVEHHQYDOLGDWHGDQGLVLQWKH¿QDOVWDJHVEHIRUH launching.

“The Plan for Mwambirwa Mbololo forest will be launched and the forest management agreement signed during the same event,” The Chief Conservator of Forest Mr. Julius inspiring DI¿UPV0U1GHULWX a student during a tree planting exercise in Kimondi Forest Station, .

The project has trained 55 Farmer Field Schools, In a country where the youth account for the successfully graduating over 750 farmer participants highest population, Kenya Forest Service has VWUDWHJLFDOO\ LGHQWL¿HG D QHHG WR HQFRXUDJH who undertook one-year training in Farmer Forestry the young generation to embrace a culture of School methodologies. “These farmers were trained conservation. on various enterprises that include woodlot establish- ment for timber, fruit orchard, crop, and tree nursery This has been done through active involve- development,” notes Mr. Nduati. ment of youth in schools and institutions during tree planting activities across the To promote uptake of the fast growing tree country. species, Melia Volkensii, the project has developed The Service has also ensured leadership and published guidelines for the species manage- representation of youth and women in ment. The guidelines will ensure attractive return on the formation of all Community Forest investment for farmers choosing to grow the Associations (CFAs) in forest adjacent commu- improved species that does particularly well in the nities towards complimentary conservation, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands. management, and protection of forest resources between KFS and the public. “We have selected 150 key farmers from Youth have also been inspired to establish tree Embu, Tharaka Nithi, , Makueni, Taita nursery projects through the Service’s 7DYHWD.LOL¿DQG.ZDOH&RXQWLHVDFFHOHUDWH engagement with stakeholders such as County large scale growing of the improved Melia Governments in a bid to ensure promotion of volkensii tree species. These farmers have income generating activities that in turn boost been trained on basic silvicultural methods conservation efforts. on growing and tending the tree species,” The Service has also offered capacity building adds Mr. Nduati to youth through training and empowering of community scouts to compliment Rangers in The project has further supplied to the selected forest management and farmers 500,000 seedlings of the improved Melia protection. Volkensii for planting in their farms.

27 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS (1&202I¿FHUV3DUWLFLSDWHLQ1DWLRQDO7KDQNVJLYLQJ Prayers for Uniformed Service Personnel %\%XOEXO5DWHPR 6\OYHVWHU2NDO

Speaking during the Service, President UHPLQGHG WKH RI¿FHUV WKDW WKHLU job is a calling with an immense responsibility and they should be VHOÀHVV DQG JLYH VHUYLFH WR WKH people for the greater good of the society. Prior to the prayer service, the KFS Band led the procession along City Hall Way leading up to the Cathedral.

The combined Service personnel also took part in distributing .)6(QIRUFHPHQWDQG&RPSOLDQFH'LYLVLRQRI¿FHUVSRVHIRUDSKRWR offertories on 14th November EHIRUHWKH$QQXDO'LVFLSOLQHG)RUFHV7KDQNVJLYLQJ3URJUDP 2019 to various homes for children and the elderly. The offertories enya Forest Service Conservation and Management) included assorted food stuff, Enforcement and Compli- Charity Munyasya, Deputy K clothes and linens and other ance officers participated in the Commandant Wilson Leboo, KFS essentials. annual Thanksgiving Mass for Regional Commandants and other Uniformed Service personnel VHQLRURI¿FHUVXQGHUWKH(QIRUFH- 7KH .)6 RI¿FHUV SURFHHGHG ZLWK held on 3rd November 2019, at ment and Compliance Division. giving subsequent offertories on the Holy Family Basilica, Nairobi. 18th December 2019 when they The Prayer Service was a culmi- visited the “Compassionate Hands The prayers bring together nation of a triad of prayers that for the Disabled” in Ruai that members of the Uniformed took place across the country over houses 93 children. They held a Service comprising of KFS, the course of 2019. The theme for prayer service with the children Kenya Police Service, Kenya the 2019 edition was “God our and planted 100 tree seedlings Wildlife Service, Kenya Prisons refuge and strength” drawn from with each child adopting a tree. Service, the Directorate of Psalms 46:1 and presided over by former military Chaplain Rt. Rev Criminal Investigations and the The last offertory distribution Salesius Mugambi. While the National Youth Service. to mark the close of 2019 took primary role of KFS rangers is to place on 20th December during H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta protect forests and its resources, the KFS End of Year Thanksgiv- OHGRWKHUKLJKSUR¿OH*RYHUQPHQW they are often on the frontline in ing Service, where the enforce- RI¿FLDOVWKDWDWWHQGHGWKHSUD\HUV offering conventional security from PHQWRI¿FHUVGLVWULEXWHGGU\IRRG including Interior Cabinet internal and external threats. Their stuffs and clothes to homes across Secretary Fred Matiang’i acts of valor portrayed in the Nairobi region. alongside respective Service RSHUDWLRQWR¿JKWWHUURULVPLQ%RQL Commanders. The Chief Conser- Forest are a clear depiction of the vator of Forests Julius Kamau led need to dedicate their safety in the KFS contingent accompanied such prayer gatherings. by Deputy CCF (Forest

28 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

NEWS ROUND UP KFS remarkable performance at ASK Trade Fairs By Lydia Ogada

.)6(QIRUFHPHQWDQG&RPSOLDQFH'LYLVLRQRI¿FHUVSRVHIRUD SKRWREHIRUHWKH$QQXDO'LVFLSOLQHG)RUFHV7KDQNVJLYLQJ'HSXW\3UHVLGHQW+(:LOOLDP5XWRSUHVHQWVDQDZDUGWR1DLUREL+2&)UDQFLV.DULXNL ProgramÀDQNHGE\RWKHU.)6DQG$6.RI¿FHUV

What a year it has been for Kenya Forest Service at observed that the Service was at the forefront in the ASK Nairobi International Trade Fair in Nairobi supporting the achievement of the Big Four Agenda and Mombasa International Trade Fair. In Nairobi through the sustainable conservation and manage- the Service outdid themselves to emerge winners ment of forest areas. in two categories and second and third in two other FDWHJRULHV .)6 HPHUJHG ¿UVW LQ WKH %HVW He also challenged the different stakeholders Energy Services and Conservation Sector Stand LQ WKH IRUHVWU\ VHFWRU WR DGRSW PRGHUQ VFLHQWL¿F and Best NGO/CBO Project Stands. The Service innovations and work together to promote best also emerged second best in the Best Government practice in the forest. Ministries Stand and third in the Best Organization/ Association in Community Projects Service Stand. The Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry Hon. Keriako Tobiko also visited the KFS At the Mombasa International Trade Fair, the Stand where he interacted with staff and other Service scooped the 1st position in best Energy stakeholders showcasing different forest Services and Conservation Sector Stand category. programs, activities and products in the sector. Aside from KFS showcasing her efforts as a leader The CS congratulated the participants for putting in Energy Conservation at the Trade Fair, other up winning displays. He noted that the ASK Show stakeholders such as Wasini Women Group, Mikoko provides an opportunity to educate the public about Pamoja Carbon Project and Haller Park exhibited forest conservation and tree planting. the efforts they are undertaking in forestry research, training, community forest conservation and The Deputy President H.E. Dr. William Ruto eco-tourism. presented the trophy for Best NGO/CBO Project stands to the KFS Nairobi Head of Conservancy Mr. During the visit to the KFS Stand at the Trade Fair, Francis Kariuki during the awards ceremony. the Chief Conservator of Forests, Julius Kamau

29 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS World Tourism Day 2019 By Benedetta Wesonga & Royan Ndegwa eco lodges, tree houses, campsites, nature trails, canopy walkways among other nature friendly facilities.

Ecotourism products, activities and services should be non-extractive, implying that they do not take away resources from forests. They should also have very low negative impact on the environment.

Indeed for KFS, ecotourism should 6WDNHKROGHUVVWXGHQWVDQGFRPPXQLW\PHPEHUVLQDKLNLQJ meet the following tenets: Minimize expedition at the Menengai Caldera during the World Tourism impacts on the environment; 'D\FHOHEUDWLRQVLQ1DNXUX&RXQW\ Protect and benefit forest biodiversity and forest conser- enya Forest Service together The organization manages 1.7 vation; conservation; Promote Kwith the million of its 2.4 million hectares environmental awareness and among other partners celebrated of gazetted forests that range from cultural preservation; meet and the World Tourism Day 2019 by equatorial forests such as exceed tourist expectations and organizing a hiking excursion at Mt. Kenya, tropical rainforest EHQH¿WIRUHVWDGMDFHQWFRPPXQLWLHV Menengai Forest on 27th September (Kakamega forest), dryland forests 2019, with this year’s theme being (Matthews Range forest), coastal By promoting ecotourism, KFS “Tourism and Jobs”. forests (Arabuko Sokoke) and aims to be the leading organization urban forests (Ngong forest). of excellence in development and The purpose of this day is These forests are rich in plant and operation of responsible t o u r i s m to raise awareness on the role of wildlife biodiversity, in addition to in forest reserves. Leadership tourism within the international having numerous attractive entails bringing together research, community and to demonstrate features including panoramic planning, partnerships, global best how it affects environmental, views, lakes, craters, waterfalls, practices and creativity to develop social, cultural, political and caves and hills. unique tourism products that have economic values worldwide. the least possible negative impacts Consequently, KFS collaborates on Kenyan forests. By promoting KFS as the host within the with different stakeholders to ecotourism, KFS is ensuring that Menengai forest participated develop responsible tourism future generations will experience and exhibited at the event which products and activities in forest aspects of the environment in almost provided a great opportunity to reserves in Kenya. The objective is the same way that we are sensitize members of the public. WRGHYHORSHFRWRXULVPGH¿QHGDV doing now. Attending the event ”responsible travel to natural areas was the Head of Conservancy One of the functions of Kenya areas that conserves the environ- Mau Mr. George Njenga, area Forest Service (KFS) is to develop ment and improves the well-be- Ecosystem Conservator Mr. Francis programs and facilities for tourism, ing of local people” (TIES, 1990). Misonge and the Forester Menengai recreational and ceremonial The products being developed in Mr. Erastus Mugo among other use of forests. forest reserves therefore include KFS staff.

30 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Aerial and Ground Surveillance of Mau and Aberdare Forest Ecosystems By Michael Kitum

he Chief Conservator of responsibilities diligently towards He appreciated the cooperation TForests (CCF) Mr. Julius WKH IXO¿OOPHQW RI WKH 6HUYLFH¶V between KFS and the Shamanek Kamau carried out a series of mandate.While addressing the Community Forest Association in aerial and ground tours on some of forest adjacent communities, the ensuring the preservation of Kenya’s water towers over the last CCF thanked them for the cordial biodiversity in the forest is quarter of the year to assess and relations they had extended to maintained. While on his visit to appreciate a raft of measures put KFS by working complimentarily Ndaragwa forest station, the CCF in place by the Service towards the with the forest rangers in exposing thanked the multi-agency coordi- conservation, management, and perpetrators of illegal forest nation between KFS personnel and protection of the Mau and activities. other security agencies in ensuring Aberdare forest ecosystems. He urged them to embrace preservation of forest resources in conservation practices that would the region which had led to The CCF conducted impromptu in turn ensure the forest resources in nabbing of perpetrators of forest inspections of Mara Mara, Ndoinet, the country thrive for the benefit illegalities. Tendeno, and Tinderet forest of both the current and future stations on the eastern part of generations. The CCF reiterated He commended the station managers Mau forest complex where he that the moratorium on all logging and noted the great potential of noted that although challenges of activities on public and community Ndaragwa tree nursery in provi- charcoal burning and overgrazing forest lands was still in place, sion of quality seedlings which had been curbed, the forest still and that the Service was adept at he said “spoke to the needs faced pockets of threats from the ensuring its implementation. of the region.” Mr. Kamau vices. He appreciated that Mara On his visit to Marmanet forest, emphasized on the need of ensuring Mara forest station was among the CCF appreciated the ecotourism nurseries countrywide are priori- the best conserved forests in the potential of the forest which serves tized through provision of funds as country not registering any cases of as an elephant migratory corridor they formed the core of sustainable illegalities. He commended the through Shamanek forest station, forest management. lean team of KFS personnel which also forms the source of manning the stations and called on River Shamanek whose waters them to continue carrying out their drain into Lake Bogoria.

31 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

PROJECT NEWS Green Zones Phase II: Promoting Innovation in Forest Conservation By Charles Ngunjiri Through agroforestry, the project will partner with communities to produce 1.1 million tons of food. Promotion of fast-growing exotic tree species in State forests and farmlands will provide the required raw materials f o r aff o rd ab le h o u s in g an d manufacturing. 7KH EHQH¿WV WR WKH SDUWLFLSDWLQJ communities will further be enhanced by value chain development on the raw materials in order to add value on primary products. &RPPXQLW\PHPEHUVZKRKDYHEHQH¿WHGIURPWKH*UHHQ=RQH The value chain will tap into Phase 2 project innovative technologies available in order to enhance he Government’s quest to forest conservation, the project HI¿FLHQF\ Tachieve 10% forest cover has will rehabilitate a total of 328,750 received a welcome boost with Ha of degraded areas in both Community livelihood support approval and commissioning of gazetted forests and community lands. will additionally be enhanced by Green Zones Development Support This will be achieved through implementation of 45 income Project Phase II. The project, which rehabilitation of degraded sites, generating activities, in line with LV¿QDQFHGE\WKH*RYHUQPHQWRI protection for natural regeneration, market trends and analysis. Kenya and the African Development plantation establishment, bamboo Bank (AFDB), will be implemented by promotion, Riverine protection Mr. Mwanzia emphasizes that the Kenya Forest Service in collabo- and on-farm intervention through project has taken cognizance of ration with other stakeholders, agroforestry and woodlot estab- rural communities’ overdependence among them County Governments, OLVKPHQW 7KLV LV VLJQL¿FDQW DV LW on wood energy which directly other government agencies, translates to 66% of rehabilitation contributes to forest degradation. Communities Forest Associations, target contained in the KFS “As a mitigation measure, NGOs and CBOs. Strategic Plan 2017-2022. communities will be assisted It will be implemented in 15 to embrace either alternative Counties within three critical “Implementation will involve various energy sources or energy ecosystems of Mau, Aberdares stakeholders, and the project and Mt Kenya forests over a six design deliberately provides broad HI¿FLHQWWHFKQRORJLHV year period until 2025. JXLGHOLQHVOHDYLQJURRPIRU¿HOG It is expected that over 7500 implementers to utilize innovation households and 10 institu- The project’s goal is to improve and technologies in execution of WLRQV ZLOO EHQH¿W IURP WKLV forest conservation and community the programs,” notes the venture,” livelihoods for sustainable forest Program Manager Mr. Jerome he commits. management in Kenya. Mwanzia. Communities will be key stake- The specific objectives are to holders in the implementation of enhance forest conservation and He says that besides forest the project. Indeed, the project will livelihood support for climate conservation, the project will adopt a participatory approach with change resilience; and to develop contribute to the government’s Big stakeholders’ involvement in timber, bamboo, horticulture and $JHQGDVSHFL¿FDOO\IRRGVHFXULW\ planning, execution, monitoring cereals value chain for improved manufacturing and affordable and evaluation. household incomes. In terms of housing.

32 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

GENERAL NEWS Cabinet Secretaries Adopt Miotini Forest Block in Ngong Road Forest By Sylvester Okal & Glory Maina

Members of the cabinet Hon.Raphael Tuju,Monica Juma, Amb. Amina Mohamed and plant a tree together with Ministry of Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Hon. Keriako Tobiko during the Launch of the Short Rains Tree Planting season at Ngong Road Forest Environment and Forestry CS, The tree planting event coincided Also speaking during the tree Hon. Keriako Tobiko led fellow with the launch of the National planting event, Environment PS Cabinet Secretaries in planting Short Rains Tree Planting campaign. Betty Maina encouraged Kenyans 2,500 indigenous trees on 15th During these short rains season, to actively take part in the October to mark the adoption of the Ministry together with all stake- campaign and help increase Kenya’s Miotoni in Ngong Road Forest by holders will plant over 50 million Forest cover with estimated 250 the Cabinet. seedlings. The ministry will provide million plus trees to be planted technical support for local public next year during the long rains. The Cabinet Secretaries present and private sector institutions She further articulated on the included, Amb.Monica Juma taking part in the National tree importance of rehabilitating and (Foreign Affairs and International planting campaign. restoring the 9.5 Ha Ngong Road Trade), Amb. Raychelle Omamo Forest, with a portion of that has (Defense), Hon. Raphael Tuju, During his address, the Environment now being adopted by members of Dr. (Public Service, CS highlighted the importance of cabinet. Youth and Gender Affairs), multi-sectorial collaboration (Energy) and Amb. in conserving the Kenyan forests. Community Forest Association Amina Mohammed (Sports, Culture members who play an important and Heritage). Also present were “I urge the Ministries, role in forest conservation “Government Agencies, have also been included in the Peter Kinyua, KFS Board Corporates and the private sector maintenance of the forest block in Members, Senior Management to heed to the President’s decree a bid to actively involve the and set aside 10% of their community in promoting equitable Corporate Social Responsibility use of forest and forest resources to tree growing,” said the CS. through community organizations. “ 33 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service

SPORTS NEWS Eventful Forest Challenge 2019 By Lydia Ogada home with the trophies: Forest C h ampion Aw a rd W i n ner, Forest Champion Award Runner up 1 and Forest Champion Award 2nd Runner up, respectively. KFS was represented by ENCOM team drawn from led by Inspector Rodgers Ruriga The Chief Guest, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Mr. Julius Kamau appreciated the efforts of the private sector entities in forest conservation and urged them to adopt forests to carry on with rehabilitation processes of key forest blocks in Kenya by complimenting the The Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Julius Kamau Service’s efforts.

The Forest Challenge is an UAP Old Mutual, who during the He reiterated the readiness of annual event organized by East event planted 4,000 seedlings in Kenya Forest Service in partner- African Wild Life Society (EAWLS) partnership with Kenya Forest ing with different organizations in conjunction with Kenya Forest Service, Kiambu County Govern- for the sake of forest conservation Service (KFS) and Kijabe Envi- ment, and Kijabe Environmental and called on individuals to also ronment Volunteers (KENVO); it Volunteers (KENVO) among other chip in efforts by planting trees so creates a platform where outgoing corporates represented. as to achieve the National target of and adventurous individuals can attaining 10% tree cover by 2022. directly interact with nature while Heavy rainfall, mud and cold KFS was also presented with an raising awareness on forests weather these were the scenes honorary award for hosting the conservation and most importantly that greeted the over 1000 nature event for the sixth time. it gives them an opportunity to fanatics who descended on Kereita contribute towards rehabilitation forest for the Forest Challenge Money raised from The Forest of forest ecosystems and rural 2019 on Saturday 30th November, Challenge 2019 will fund forest communities. The proceeds 2019. These conditions however rehabilitation projects in and around drawn from the Forest Challenge did not dim their spirits for in their Kereita Forest, which forms part are ploughed back to conservation minds they knew it was all for a of the southern Aberdares water of our water towers through tree good cause and could not wait for towers, supplementing the over 4,000 planting. Some of the resources the challenge to begin. The teams tree seedlings planted concurrently are also dedicated to community as the Forest Challenge took place. CSR projects. Conservator of Forests, Julius Kamau. Having witnessed a very successful This year ’s event attracted Base Titanium, Kiambu Water Forest Challenge 2019 the organizers participants from different & Sewerage Co. and Sanitation are looking at an even bigger and corporate entities among them emerged overall winners and went better Forest Challenge 2020.

34 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service GENERAL NEWS Celebrating a decade of partnership in forest conservation, management and protection By Michael Kitum The Friends of Karura Community Forest Association (FKF-CFA), one of Kenya’s iconic CFA model, on 9th October, 2019 marked their 10th anniversary since inception as a CFA partnering with Kenya Forest Service (KFS) towards complimentary forest conservation, management, and protection of Karura forest. The CAS Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Mohamed Elmi The auspicious ceremony, graced by the Chief Administrative 10th anniversary celebrations. Looking on is FKF-CFA Secretary (CAS) Ministry of Chairperson Dr. Winnie Kiiru. Environment and Forestry Hon. indigenous tree seedlings during Management Plans (PFMP), 97 Mohamed Elmi, brought together the onset of October short rains have signed Forest Management the forest adjacent community period. Agreements (FMAs), and 12 living around one of the world’s The KFS Board Vice Chairman Ecosystem Management Plans. largest urban forest, at Amani who is also the National Alliance The FKF chairperson Dr. Winnie Gardens to celebrate milestones of Community Forests Associa- Kiiru noted from statistics that achieved since joining hands tions (NACOFA) chairperson, Mr. Karura forest features as among towards the course of converting Peter Wandera celebrated the role the once dangerous no-go forest the most visited ecotourism into its current prime eco-tourism of FKF as a CFA has played in facilities in which forest attraction in a city. setting the bar for others country- provides the residents 50Kms of wide and reiterated the importance secure trails to exercise, and also While launching a Two Million of FKF mentoring other CFAs for hosts the world’s most successful FKF Bursary Fund towards the the important role forest adjacent r e i n t r o d u cti o n o f a r b o r e a l education of deserving less privi- communities’ play in conservation. primates (a remnant Aberdare leged children in Nairobi, the CAS He reiterated the need for FKF Mountain population of a threat- appreciated the CFA for playing a to mentor and equip many other crucial role in the transformation ened black and white colobus and preservation of Karura forest. CFAs with expertise towards live- monkey sub-species) and over 200 He noted the role the forest played lihood improvement. bird species recorded in the forest. in keeping the city’s micro climate On his part, the Chief Conservator FKF-CFA has worked in tandem conducive for its residents as well of Forests (CCF) Mr. Julius Kamau with KFS into converting Karura as being a habitat for wildlife. recounted the long journey the forest into a prime ecotourism site He urged FKF to mentor CFA’s forest sector had undergone in as the city’s largest green space around the country into emulating ensuring reforms, such as the which receives nearly 30, 000 best CFA governance practices incorporation of public partici- visitors monthly, 75% of whom are that would spur improved live- pation in forest conservation and Kenyan citizens, who come to lihood through development of management through formation enjoy the beautiful sceneries ecotourism facilities such as of CFAs by forest adjacent commu- provided by the forests which has nature trails and parks. The CAS nities. He also pointed out that set an anti-pollution example by also lauded the KFS & FKF so far KFS is working with 255 banning use of plastic in the forest collaboration that had far since CFAs countrywide of which 159 in line with the Kenya-wide ban on managed to plant over 80,000 have developed Participatory Forest- plastics bag.

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LEISURE

36 | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A Quarterly Magazine of Kenya Forest Service ARCHIVES

37 39| | ISSUE 27, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2019 A QuarterlyQuartery Magazine Magazine Of of Kenya Forest Service

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