NAIROBI, April 17 (NNN-KNA) — The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, through the National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND), has launched a Ksh 667 million project aimed at restoring the endangered Cherangany Forest Ecosystem.
Dubbed The Restoration and Sustainable Management of the Cherangany Forest Ecosystem and improved livelihood project, the three-year project is funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation and targets over 1,000 smallholder farmers and an estimated 270,000 people in Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot counties and plant 18 million trees.
Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa, presided over the launch held at Chebara Agricultural Training Centre affirming the government’s commitment to environmental restoration.
“The government is committed to strengthening partnerships for restoring the country’s precious but endangered forest ecosystems,” said Dr. Barasa. “To this end, I want to thank our development partners and NETFUND for spearheading this initiative.”
Dr. Barasa urged all Kenyans to actively participate in the restoration efforts. “Whether it’s planting trees, spreading awareness, supporting sustainable practices, or simply taking a stand for the environment—every action matters,” she said.
Italian Deputy Ambassador Lorenza Maria Gambacorta emphasized her government’s commitment to supporting climate resilience in Kenya.
“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,” said Gambacorta. “We believe in combining development and restoration to achieve meaningful impact.”
She revealed that Italy has approved and funded two projects in Kenya to a value of 224 million Euros and is optimistic that the Cherangany restoration project will also be a success.
Governor Wisley Rotich of Elgeyo Marakwet County thanked the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation for the generous grant, while also appealing to the ministry for greater community involvement in forest management.
“I urge the CS to ensure our people are at the heart of this project. Local communities must be part of the solution,” said Governor Rotich.
The project aims to plant 18 million trees and is anchored on four pillars: strengthening forest governance, producing certified high-quality seedlings, promoting sustainable land-use practices, and raising public awareness to mobilize community and private sector support.
Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Eng. Festus Ng’eno underscored the objective of the project which is to assist farmers engage in sustainable farming practices while conserving forests.
NETFUND CEO Samson Toniok highlighted the significance of the project in bolstering climate resilience and economic growth. “Restoration of this ecosystem is crucial for our economy and future generations. We are committed to a coordinated approach involving all stakeholders,” said Toniok.
The initiative also aligns with President William Ruto’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032—a flagship commitment under his climate action agenda.
Principal Secretary for ASALs and Regional Development, Kello Harsama, revealed that the Kerio Valley Development Authority has already planted 13.5 million trees and pledged continued support.
“We commend the women groups running successful tree nurseries. KVDA will continue supporting them by providing seedlings, training, and linking them to KEPHIS for certification,” said Harsama.
NETFUND will oversee project implementation in collaboration with the county governments of Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot, Kenya Forestry Research Institute, Kenya Forest Service, and various community organizations.
The Cherangany Forest, a critical water catchment and biodiversity hotspot, has suffered from decades of degradation. This project is expected to significantly reverse deforestation trends while boosting local livelihoods and climate resilience. — NNN-KNA
