Kenya and Italy have unveiled a Ksh.667 million initiative aimed at restoring the Cherangany Forest ecosystem and enhancing community livelihoods. The three-year project, titled The Restoration and Sustainable Management of the Cherangany Forest Ecosystem and Improved Livelihood Project, is funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation and will benefit over 1,000 smallholder farmers and approximately 270,000 people in Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties.
The project was launched at the Chebara Agricultural Training Centre by Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa. She reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental restoration and partnerships that support Kenya’s green agenda.
“The government is committed to strengthening partnerships for restoring the country’s precious but endangered forest ecosystems,” said Dr. Barasa, encouraging all Kenyans to join in conservation efforts, including tree planting and promoting sustainable practices.
Italian Deputy Ambassador Lorenza Maria Gambacorta emphasized Italy’s dedication to climate resilience in Kenya, stating, “We are proud to be part of this initiative, which reflects Italy’s political and financial dedication to tackling the global challenge of climate change.”
Governor Wisley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet thanked Italy for the grant and called for greater community involvement. “Local communities must be part of the solution,” he urged.
The project targets the planting of 18 million trees and is built on four main pillars: strengthening forest governance, producing high-quality certified seedlings, promoting sustainable land-use practices, and raising public awareness.
Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Eng. Festus Ng’eno, noted that the initiative will support farmers in adopting sustainable practices that conserve forests, while NETFUND CEO Samson Toniok underscored the project’s role in boosting climate resilience and economic growth.
The project aligns with President William Ruto’s ambitious plan to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. Already, the Kerio Valley Development Authority has planted 13.5 million trees, with continued support pledged for women-run tree nurseries.
The Cherangany Forest, a vital water catchment and biodiversity hotspot, has suffered extensive degradation over the years. This initiative is expected to reverse deforestation trends, improve environmental health, and uplift local communities through sustainable development.
