A Quaterly Magazine of The Kenya Forest Service : Issue No.12 :: April - June 2014
FORESTRY POTENTIAL
IN THE DRYLANDS
KENYA @ 50 SECRETARIAT TO PLANT
50 MILLION TREES
KENYA FORESTRY COLLEGE
STUDENTS GRADUATE
In this 12th issue of the Forester, we highlight a number
of ongoing activities and events that have taken place in the last
quarter of the fiscal year 2013/2014. Our main focus in this issue
is on Dryland Forestry and the immense potential the arid and
semi-arid lands (ASALs) hold in terms of growth in the forestry
sector and also towards strengthening the economy and the livelihoods of people living in these areas. The Service has also been partnering with numerous
stakeholders such as the Embassy of South Korea, Kenya National
Highways Authority (KENHA), TOYOTA Kenya and Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) among others in environmental conservation through tree planting. It is encouraging to
see corporate citizens engaging in tree planting as one of their
community social responsibility activities. This will go a long way
in increasing the country’s tree cover. We therefore call upon
other partners in both the public and private sector to join us in
this noble course.
The Service continues to promote the protection of the
major water towers in the country. to this end, KFS joined Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust at this year’s Rhino Charge whose
main objective is to raise funds to fence the Mt. Kenya Forest.
This will be important in the prevention of human-wildlife conflicts as well as help in protecting the forest from destruction.
We also highlight the graduation of over 220 students from the
Kenya Forestry College this year. The College continues to play
an important role towards enhancing the capacity of technical
officers in forest management and protection.
Catch all this and more in the 12th issue of the Forester Magazine.
EDITOR
- Anne Kaari
SUB EDITORS
- Charles Ngunjiri
- Leakey Sonkoyo
STAFF WRITERS
- Lydia Ogada
- Michael Muratha
- Caroline Kahuria
- Esther Munyingi
- Susan Ndethiu
- Sarah Wacera
- Brian Karani
CONTRIBUTORS
- Col. J.N. Kimani
- Monicah Ruto
- Tito Okello
DESIGN
- Fuchamedia
PRINTERS
- Wiltech Communication Printers
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
Cover Photo: A view of Marsabit Forest
04 - LEAD STORY
- Forestry Potential in The Drylands
06 - GENERAL NEWS
- Kenya Forestry College Students Graduate
16 - PICTORIALS
20 - PROJECT NEWS
- Redd+ Implementation in Kenya
22 - COMMENTARY
- Watershed Management
24 - STATION PROFILE
- Shamanek Forest Station
25 - STAFF NEWS
- KFS Commandant Awarded
28 - FEATURE
- Kipini Conservancy
29 - FROM THE FILES
30 - HUMOUR AND LEISURE
32 - KNOW YOUR TRESS
DIRECTOR’S FORWARD
Word from the Director
Kenya is endowed with some of the most pristine forest ecosystems in the world. She is blessed with some of the most
diverse forest ecosystems around from the moorlands to
rain forests, tropical and probably the only remaining coastal
forest in the region. These are important national treasurers
that citizens have the sole responsibility of conserving. Kenyans must never lose sight of the important roles that these
forests play in their daily lives no matter where they live.
In years gone by, our forests were more expansive and ultimately more diverse. But with population growth and demand for wood from industries, forests have continued to
shrink, sometimes at an alarming rate.
Kenya was on the verge of losing and indeed may
have lost some of its plant species. This in turn has threatened the very existence of some animal species. Without
Arabuko-Sokoke Forest at the Coast for example, animal
species like the Golden Rump Elephant Shrew and the
Sokoke Scops Owl which are only found in that forest, would
not be in existence. It is for this reason that the government
set aside some areas for forest conservation and animal
habitats.
Our forests are perhaps the only heritage that a
human generation can bequeath another generation. So it
is incumbent upon us to preserve the few forest resources
we have and find a better way of supplementing them by
for example planting trees for domestic and industrial use
David K. Mbugua - KFS Director
on our farms. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) continues to
work with farmers through its Farm Forestry Programme to
equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge on best
practice in tree growing. This includes helping them adopt
the best species for different purposes.
The Service is also aggressively pursuing tree growing
and conservation of available vegetation in the drylands.
Through its Drylands Programme, the Service is working
with residents of the drier parts of the country which make
up about 80% of the country, to conserve dryland forests,
which are unique biodiversities and also to adopt tree species that have been found to do well in these areas.
LETTERS
Our Environment
Environment is anything that surrounds us. Before we litter, we
must imagine if it is right or wrong. The environment that surrounds us was better but now it is unpleasant. Some people do
not care and they throw polythene papers and other items anywhere they want. If they knew how much time it takes to decay,
they would stop instantly. That is why I am not supporting them
in destroying the environment that God gave us.
To the people who cut down trees: cutting down trees leads to
soil erosion. Please avoid doing so. Do not destroy our beautiful environment.
And to those who litter, did you know most of this litter ends up
in our water sources? Water is life and if it was not there, we
would not survive.
We should learn to recycle the items that can be used later.
Please Kenyans and all people from other countries, let us conserve our environment so that we can shine.
KFS will be awarding one lucky winner of the ‘Star Letter’ so we
are encouraging you to write to us with your comments and
queries and stand a chance to win.
Best letter to the editor to receive a branded KFS t-shirt and
cap.
Amos Kimosop Kibor - 11yrs.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
LEAD STORY
Vegetation in the Drylands
Forestry Potential in The Drylands
is sustainable management and utilisation of drylands forest
resources for community livelihood improvement and climate
change mitigation. The Service is increasing and maintaining
the area under tree cover in ASALS through institutional tree
planting approaches and rehabilitations of degraded areas for
enhanced environmental conservation and livelihood improvement. KFS is also promoting sustainable investments in dryland
forest enterprises such as bee keeping, silk and aloe farming,
value addition for products such as gums and resins.
The county’s arid and semi-arid areas which cover
about 80% of Kenya’s total land surface and hold 25% of the
human population, are unique in nature and require special attention to strengthen not only the economic base of the inhabitants but also the national economy. They also offer the greatest potential for intensified afforestation towards achieving the
national objective of 10% tree cover. The Service has is also enhancing its information generation, dissemination and technology transfer capacity within
the ASAL areas. KFS has started programmes to ensure that the
sustainable forestry management practices are achieved in the
drylands. These include the promotion and establishment of
suitable multipurpose tree species in the ASALS as well as water
harvesting and conservation measures in the drylands
As much as dryland forests have the potential to supply
marketable commodities on a sustainable basis – such as gums
and resins, aloe, charcoal, essential oils, silk, edible oil, commercial juices, frankincense, indigenous fruits, honey, thatching materials and timber – an improvement in the livelihoods
of those people living in the Arid and Semi-arid areas (ASAL)
will depend upon development of processing technologies and
markets for the non-wood forest products and the provision of
sufficient economic incentives.
Desertification, which is the process of degrading the
drylands into deserts is a major problem in the drylands. Most
of these processes occur as a result of many causes both natural
and human. Destruction of vegetation cover in drylands occurs
for a variety of reasons such as overgrazing, over cultivation,
fuel wood collection and burning. Stock grazing is the most
widespread use of drylands and it is widely regarded as a major
cause of desertification owing to its increased intensity.
The major role of the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in the drylands
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
Prosopis Juliflora 'Mathenge' Tree
The Service in conjunction with stakeholders including the
County Governments is also promoting catchment protection
and rehabilitation and also supporting community initiatives in
sustainable utilization of tree products through promotion of
value addition.
Other activities aimed at developing dryland forestry include streamlining the charcoal industry for sustainability
LEAD STORY
Forestry Potential in the Drylands
through formation of charcoal producer associations in all the
ASAL forest areas and establishment of woodlots of suitable drylands tree species.
The Service is also working with other agencies including the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) to identify and
develop tree species that can withstand the climatic conditions
of the ASALs with a view of introducing these to tree farmers.
KFS is also sensitising pastoralists on sustainable methods of
Conserving Marsabit Forest
Located 170km east of the centre of the East African
Rift, Marsabit District near the town of Marsabit, Mount Marsabit is a thick forest that is shrouded in mist and fog with high
moisture levels and cool temperatures.
The forest is critical in sustaining life not only within the forest but also in the surrounding areas, including Marsabit town.
The forest and the surrounding areas have a diverse range of
ecosystem services that include water provision, climate regulation and a carbon sink reservoir.
The forest also provides wood fuel, medicinal plants
and grazing areas which are particularly important to the surrounding communities and the people living adjacent to the
forest.
grazing by building on the Indigenous Technical Knowledge such
as deferred grazing patterns.
Other approaches include the Green Schools Programme that
aims at involving educational institutions in tree planting activities nationally.
Vegetation in the Drylands.
In a bid to reduce deforestation rates that have been
so rampant, the Government of Kenya initiated the Northern
Kenya Biodiversity Conservation project to run for five years
from July 2013 to 2018 with a need to optimize ecosystems
services, particularly water and energy provision in an area of
northern Kenya that centers on Marsabit forest and its natural
resources. The project is being funded by Agence Francaise de
Development (AFD) at a cost of Kshs 1.2 billion. The project is meant to benefit communities living adjacent to the forest, particularly communities in three conservancies among them Songa, Shurr and Jaldesa. Other partners
include Kenya Forest Service, NEMA, relevant NGO’s and KWS.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
GENERAL NEWS
Kenya Forestry College Students Graduate
Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Prof. Judi Wakhungu during the ceremony
Over 220 students undertaking certificate and diploma
courses in forestry graduated at the Kenya Forestry College
(KFC) Londiani recently at a colourful ceremony presided over
by the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Environment, Water and
Natural Resources Prof. Judi Wakhungu among other dignitaries.
Speaking at the event in which the 28th and 37th diploma and certificate classes respectively graduated, the Minister congratulated the students for successfully completing the
course and joining the forestry sector which she added needed
technical officers to help mitigate the effects of climate change
and environmental degradation. “You are joining the forestry
sector at a time when we as a country are grappling with challenges brought about by climate change. So you should play
your part as experts to assist in addressing these changes,” she
told the students.
Addressing the same gathering, the Chairman of Kenya
Forest Service (KFS) Mr. Peter Kirigua also congratulated the
students and urged them to continue furthering their education so that they can gain more skills to work in the forestry sector. “There are many opportunities now in the sector as more
Kenyans have embraced forestry and will need your technical
services to help them manage their forest estates,” said Mr. Kirigua.
On his part, KFS Director Mr. David Mbugua said that the
Service had assisted the college improve its capacity by investing in better infrastructure. He said that with the completion of
the hospitality and conference facility at the college, it was now
in a better position to attract business as the government had
directed that all state conferences and workshops be held in
government facilities.
While addressing the students and guests who had attended the ceremony, the college’s Principal Prof. Donald Ogweno said that the college had reviewed its curriculum with a
view of making it more relevant to the present realities of the
sector. He added that there was more emphasis on entrepreneurship in the new curriculum as the forest sector was now
being viewed as a viable commercial activity which the graduates can engage in.
The Principal added that the college had also diversified
the courses offered to include short courses which are being
offered to the neighbouring community at a minimal fee. He
said the college was also working with the University of Eldoret
with a view of developing a degree course to be offered at the
institution. The college has also partnered with a number of
universities in Finland in order to improve the capacity of the
teaching staff.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Prof. Judi Wakhungu being given a tour of the Kenya Forestry College campus.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
GENERAL NEWS
KFS Board Chairman Peter Kirigua, Kimakia CFA Chairman Daniel Murugu and Project Manager North Eastern Aberdare Rehabilitation & Livelihood Project
Catherine Mwangi plant a tree to mark the launch of the event.
Communities Participate in
Tree Planting
Foundation to Plant 250
Thousand Trees
Kenya Forest Service (KFS) joined the Kimakia Community Forest Association on the 6th of May 2014 in planting
trees in Kiambu County. Communities adjacent to the forest
have been engaging in conservation efforts through an enhanced relationship with KFS.
Addressing the community during the event, KFS
Board Chairman Mr. Peter Kirigua urged farmers to utilize the
opportunity given to them in collaborating with KFS through
establishment of nurseries to improve their livelihoods.
He noted that it was important for the Association to
have an educational tour to other areas particularly Gathiuru
CFA in Nanyuki to open up the participants minds to new
opportunities that can be useful for their own development.
This will allow them to see principles of plant growth, management and also learn how to engage in income generating
activities to better their lives.
Speaking during the planting, Kimakia CFA Chairperson Daniel Murugu was grateful for the support they have
received from KFS in regards to understanding Participatory
Forest Management. This has accorded the community a
sense of ownership of the natural resources around them
and their benefits.
Mr. Kirigua also noted that KFS has been collaborating with schools through the Green Schools and Commercial
Tree Growing Programme, to ensure schools establish their
own nurseries to sustain themselves economically
School Children plant trees during the launch of Kagoech Foundation
Trust's tree planting initiative
The Kagoech Foundation Trust will plant 250 thousand seedlings this rainy season in a campaign which will
eventually see it planting over 10 million seedlings in four
counties namely; Elgeyo/Marakwet, Uasin-Ngishu, Nandi
and Baringo. This was said by the Foundation’s Chairman
Mr. Micah Kigen during the launch of the Greening Schools
Phase Two Programme in Iten recently.
Speaking at the same event, the Kenya Forest Service
(KFS) Chairman Mr. Peter Kirigua who was the Chief Guest
said that KFS had a National Programme for planting trees in
schools which will see the participation of all public schools
in Kenya. He added that the Service had identified 20 schools
in each constituency which it will assist in establishing tree
nurseries and woodlots.
The Chairman also used the opportunity to thank
people who had voluntarily left the Embobut Forest saying
that KFS will work with them to restore the forest. “I assure
you that the Service will involve you in the restoration of
Embobut Forest which is now free from forest invaders,” he
said. He further urged them to join Community Forest Associations (CFAs) so that they can enter into meaningful engagements with KFS as stipulated by the law. THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
GENERAL NEWS
Kirinyaga County Launches Green Schools and Commercial Tree Growing
Senior Deputy Director Field Operations Emilio Mugo waters a tree in
Rwambiti Primary School in Gichugu Constituency, Kirinyaga County.
KFS rolled out another initiative of the Green Schools
and Commercial Tree Growing in Rwambiti Primary School, Gichugu Constituency, Kirinyaga County on 5th April, 2014 which
saw more than 300 tree seedlings planted in the school premises.
In a speech read out by the Ministry of Environment,
Water and Natural Resources Conservation Secretary, Gideon Gathaara, promised that the national government would
work hand in hand with the county government to increase the
county’s tree cover in line with Kenya’s vision 2030 goal of 10%
tree cover. Mr. Gathaara encouraged the pupils in attendance
to help in planting trees in their schools and also at home as an
income generating activity for them.
Speaking during the event, the area Member of Parliament Hon. Njogu Barua reinterred his commitment to the conservation of the environment for the people of Gichugu Constituency. He said that he would push for the establishment of
an Environment day in Kirinyaga County that could see schools
that practice environmental conservation rewarded. He also
said that he would support the green schools initiative so that
the movement would encompass all primary schools and secondary schools in the county to help in the conservation of our
forests.
The representative of Kirinyaga County’s Minister for
Environment, Water and Natural Resources reiterated the
county’s commitment to conserve the forest. This will be done
by the setting aside of part of the county’s budget for the establishment of a county forest at the south of Ngariama. This
project will cost the county Ksh. 500,000.00. He also said that
the county government would invest in the rehabilitation of urban forest in Kerugoya and also the demarcation and fencing of
the forests in the county to help in the conservation of forests
that fall within Kirinyaga County.
50 Millions Trees Planted by Kenya @ 50 Secretariat
Scouts from Machakos County plant trees at Machakos People's Park as
National Bank CEO Mr. Munir Ahmed (left) and KFS Board Chairman Mr.
Peter Kirigua look on.
KFS joined the Kenya @ 50 Secretariat and other stakeholders in planting trees at the People’s Park in Machakos
County on 23rd May, 2014. The initiative was aimed at planting 50 million trees in the next three years, towards achieving
the 10% tree cover.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
Speaking during the event KFS Board Chairman Mr.
Peter Kirigua noted that the Service has been ensuring that
the set target is achieved through engaging stakeholders and
schools through the Green Schools and Commercial Tree
Growing Project, where students are encouraged to participate in tree growing for environmental sustainability and
commercial gain.
He noted that several schools in the County had been
selected for the program, among them Katheini in Kang’undo, Ndovoini in Athi River, Thatha in Masinga, Makutano
in Mwala and Muumandu. He emphasized the importance
of the program in assisting students to sustain themselves
through establishment of tree nurseries and woodlots in
their respective schools.
Also present at the event, the Kenya @ 50 Secretariat
Communication Director Mr. Mohammed Hussein noted that
the initiative will help the County and more so the Country, in
achieving the targeted 10% tree cover.
KFS has been encouraging partnerships from Government institutions and the Private sector in a bid to ensure
that the 10% tree cover is attained. Environmental sustainability is key in ensuring that our society continues to enjoy
economic gain and more importantly address issues of climate change, while still conserving the environment.
GENERAL NEWS
Kenya Forest Service - Korea Tree Planting
South Korea Ambassador to Kenya Mr. Choi Donggyou is received by the KFS Director Mr. D.K
Mbugua and the Deputy Director Forest Extension Services Mr. Patrick Kariuki at Karera Forest in
Kiambu County.
Kenya Forest Service marked its
3rd tree planting partnership with the
Republic of Korea by planting trees at
Karera Forest in Kiambu County on 30th
May 2014. The event was graced by the
South Korea Ambassador to Kenya Mr.
Choi Donggyou. Speaking at the event,
Mr. Donggyou reiterated the Korean
Government’s continued commitment
towards seeing Kenya achieve its goal
towards attaining a better environment
and becoming developed. “I am happy to
be in Kenya, it is a beautiful place to be in
and I can assure you that our friendship
with Kenya will continue to grow”, Donggyou who took over from Chan-Woo Kim
affirmed.
The Korean Government has
pledged its continued support to the
Kenyan Government in increasing the
country’s tree cover. South Korea Ambassador
Choi Donggyou said that his gov-
ernment is willing to work with Kenya to
continue maintaining the historic forest
friendship which is in its third year now.
Also present at the function
held at the Karera Forest Block uplands
was KFS Board Chairman Peter Kirigua,
KFS Director David Mbugua, KFS senior
management staff, Korea Embassy staff
among others.
Speaking during the same event,
KFS Board Chairman Peter Kirigua spoke
of the partnership as being among the
major contributors to the increasing
forest cover in the country. “Through
this partnership we have so far planted
7,000 seedlings covering an area of 10
hectares and the general survival stands
at over 80%”, he said. He also urged the
communities living within the forest to
protect it especially from loggers and to
avoid overgrazing. He assured the Korean Government that KFS was committed
to continue working with them. While thanking the Korean Government for their continued support,
Kenya Forest Service Director Mr. David Mbugua called on the international
community to partner with Kenyans in
tree planting activities across Kenya. He
also added that the government plans to
fence all public forests in the country to
reduce human destruction and help forest rangers and the communities living
near the forests in their efforts to protect
trees from illegal logging. There will also
be specific entry points into public forests. A total of 4400 trees were planted
that day.
Other dignitaries who were
present at the event include the Deputy County Commissioner Lari County, a
representative from the Timber Manufacturers Association and Kiambu MCA
Mr. Joseph Githaiga. KFS was represented by the Head of Conservancy-Central
Highlands John Wachihi, the Deputy
Director-Legal Esther Keige, Deputy Director-Forest Conservation Esau Omollo
and the Deputy Director-Finance and
Accounting Anastacia Muasya, Deputy
Director-Forest Extension Patrick Kariuki,
Head Corporate-Communications Anne
Kaari, Ecosystem Conservator-Kiambu
Mr. George Njenga and other staff from
the KFS headquarters and KFS Kiambu
County.
KFS Signs Forest Management Agreements with Community Forest Associations
According to the Forests Act 2005, all state and county
forests have to be managed using a Participatory Forest Management Plan (PFMP) negotiated and agreed upon between Kenya
Forest Service (KFS) and Community Forest Associations (CFAs)
living adjacent to forests. After the PFMP is finalized, a legal
contract which stipulates responsibilities and benefits for each
party is then signed to give effect to the PFMP. To this effect, KFS
recently signed over 15 Management agreements with communities across the country which will go a long way in improving conservation and management of our forests countrywide.
Speaking at one of the functions where she presided over the
signing of 8 Participatory Forest Management Agreements, KFS
Senior Deputy Director Support Services, Ms. Monicah Kalenda
thanked the CFA for working tirelessly to rehabilitate the forests. She assured them that KFS will empower them with capacity building skills to develop other income generating activities.
Speaking elsewhere, the Chairman Saboti Community
Forest Association, Mr. Joseph Kiboi said that the communities
had benefited from the Plantation Establishment and Livelihood
Improvement Scheme (PELIS) ever since they started working
with KFS. He added that the members of his CFA who are mainly
subsistence farmers, had been empowered economically and
were now at the forefront of rehabilitating and conserving their
part of the Mt. Elgon Forest.
The agreements are very essential for the communities
as they came with many benefits including but not limited to
collection of medicinal herbs, bee keeping, collection of wood
fuel, grazing and grass harvesting.
The plans and agreements have enhanced the relationship between KFS and the community as it allows for community
participation, management and conservation of public forests.
Among other Forest Stations where management agreements
were signed include Castle, Muriganto, Lower Imenti, Chogoria,
Sabor, Londiani, Koibatek, Nyangores, Olenguruone, Wire and
Kinale.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
GENERAL NEWS
Fencing Ngong Road Forest
From L to R-Chase Bank Head of Brand and Marketing, Ms. Magdalene Mulandi, Ngong Road Forest Association Chairman, Mr.Simon Woods, Nairobi County
HOC, Ms. Charity Munyasia and KFS Director, Mr. D.K. Mbugua
KFS joined the Ngong Road Forest Association, Chase
Bank and the community on 20th June 2014 as section one of
fencing of the urban forest was launched.
The forest which is situated on the outskirts of Kenya’s
capital, has been under constant threat of illegal poaching and
encroachment from private developers thus depleting the forest resources. The electric fencing will therefore provide security for users of the southern bypass and safeguard the forest
resource which serves as a source of employment for the communities adjacent to the forest.
Speaking during the launch, Ngong Forest Association
Chairman Mr. Simon Woods noted that there was a need for
urgent attention towards protecting the forest since it has the
potential to become a safe, self-sustaining and inclusive green
space in sustainable forest management. He emphasized the
need for collaboration, “We hope to culture the support of all
the community living and working around the forest, as this
forest is as much for them and their livelihood as it will be for
those who wish to enjoy it purely for its recreational facilities,
such as walking, jogging and mountain biking.” he said. He also
took the opportunity to urge potential partners to join in and
be part of the change as they prepared to commence fencing
of other sections of the forest.
Speaking at the event, KFS Director Mr. David Mbugua
noted the need for forest conservation to support the communities at large “As the community manage the ecotourism
development potential of Nairobi, once the revenue starts
streaming in; the beneficiaries are the communities” he said.
He noted that it was through fencing of the forest that maximum benefits will be achieved. He encouraged the communities to transform the forest from a plantation into a biodiversity hotspot through planting of indigenous trees, supporting
recreational sites and maintaining the aesthetic value which is
typical of an urban forest.
Also present at the event was Ms. Magdalene Mulandi
from Chase Bank, who noted that the Bank was pleased to be
a partner in this noble activity of giving back to the community
and being part of environmental conservation.
KFS Partners with Konza Techno City to Increase Tree Cover
KFS and Konza Technopolis Development Authority will
partner in planting 1000 tree seedlings in Konza City, Makueni
County. The tree planting project is meant to improve the area’s
tree cover and also to beautify the ICT hub.
This project will be divided into phases with the first
phase being launched in June of this year. This first phase will
see the KONZA management authority plant 1000 tree seedlings
along the 9 km perimeter fence that boarders Mombasa road.
Planting of trees in KONZA is part of the design plan of
the ICT Hub that will house businesses, schools, a recreational
park and residential houses. This is also one of the pillars in the
director of KODTA’s performance agreement to make the hub
10
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
environmentally friendly.
The tree planting project will help in the creation of jobs
for communities living around the area through hiring of casuals from villages in the area and procuring of tree seedlings
from nurseries in the area. This project will also play a vital role
in supporting KFS’ target of attaining the 10% tree cover by the
year 2030.
This partnership is timely as KFS in the recent past
launched the Green Schools and Commercial Tree Growing project in a bid to mobilize stakeholders to plant trees for a green
economy.
GENERAL NEWS
Assistant to the M.D Toyota Kenya, Sayoto Morita plants a tree along the southern by-pass, Nairobi.
Corporate Citizenship for Increased Tree Cover
Corporate Citizenship or Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a management concept whereby companies
integrate social and environmental concerns in their business
operations and interactions with their stakeholders. The triple-bottom-line approach defines CSR as the way through
which a company achieves a balance of economic, environmental and social imperatives while at the same time addressing the expectations of shareholders and stakeholders.
As the world’s population increases, so does the pressure on limited natural resources required to meet rising consumer demand (Grace and Cohen 2005, 147). Industrialization
especially in Africa is booming thanks to foreign investment
and new technology. Most consumers are becoming more
aware of the environmental and social implication of their purchasing power and this has led them to want to be identified
with organizations that are environmentally conscious.
In this industrial age where more companies are entering the
market and competing for a share of the market, companies
need to come up with ways that can make them stand out from
the pack and attract even more clientele. More companies in
Kenya are investing part of their resources in tree planting as
one of their CSR activities. This can help improve an organization’s corporate image as they are seen to be environmentally conscious by the community. Planting of trees also helps in
reducing an organization’s carbon footprint, thereby meeting
international standards.
KFS has been able to positively utilize the CSR concept in its
mandate of increasing Kenya’s tree cover. This year alone, KFS
has so far partnered with Kenya Electricity Transmission Co.
Ltd. (KETRACO) and Toyota Kenya in planting tree seedlings in
Ngong Road forest. In the month of May, both corporates have
planted 1200 seedlings each in the 15ha of degraded site in
the forest. Last year, KETRACO planted 1400 tree seedlings and
through its partnership with KFS, we have been able to achieve
a 90% success rate. The organization promised to continue its
partnership with KFS and help in increasing Kenya’s tree cover.
Through its partnership with KFS, Toyota Kenya aims
to plant 5000 tree seedlings on 500ha of forest land in the next
3 years as part of helping the Service in its mission to enhance
conservation and sustainable management of forests and allied resources for environmental stability and socio-economic
development.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
11
GENERAL NEWS
KENHA Fights Climate Change Through Planting of Trees Along Highways
Climate change is increasingly becoming evident in this
century. We are experiencing droughts, flash floods, landslides
and a variety of other phenomena. Unfortunately, these occurrences are having a negative effect on our infrastructure. Roads
and bridges are flooded once it rains and in some cases they are
swept away by the flood waters. This has been witnessed a lot in
arid and semi-arid areas (ASALs) where there is little or no vegetation to counter flood waters. This has seen the government divert
money meant for development projects to repairing these roads
and bridges. It is because of this that the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) has decided to incorporate tree planting
into all its planning and road designs.
The authority has to ensure that they take into consideration the impact of flash floods on all infrastructure being constructed. This is in line with the Climate Change Adaptation Action Point no. 5 of the National Climate Change Action Plan 2013
– 2017 on climate proofing all roads in ASAL areas in Kenya. These
areas are prone to flash floods and if vegetation is not added to
them, flood waters will end up in non-ASAL areas.
As part of their corporate social responsibility activities,
KENHA in partnership with China Roads and Bridge Corporation
and KFS, planted trees along the newly constructed Ngong Road
interchange along the Southern By-pass. These trees are meant
to not only beautify the area but also help in the fight against
climate change. By planting trees along the roads, KENHA is contributing towards achieving the 10% tree cover as envisioned in
Vision 2030. Speaking on behalf of the KENHA board, board di-
From L to R: KFS Head of Conservancy Nairobi County Charity Munyasia, Kenya National Highways Authority Director General Eng.
M.O Kidenda and China Roads & Bridges Corporation Project Manager Shu Yi Lee water a tree planted along the newly constructe
rector Mr. Kepha N.M. Oyara called upon all KENHA staff,
consultants and contractors to enhance their efforts and
capacities in order to effectively work towards provision of
green roads and contribute to making lives green.
KFS Participates in KEFRI Open Day
Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Forest Research Institute
and other stakeholders came together to mark the KEFRI Open
Day on 16th May, 2014 at Karura, off Kiambu road in an effort
to conserve the environment with the running theme, ‘Efficient
Technologies in Processing and Utilization of Forest Products’.
The occasion was well attended by primary school children, university students and people from all walks of life.
KFS advocates for the conservation of trees through the
use of improved charcoal production techniques. The main energy saving techniques on display included: the use of the improved earth kiln, casame kiln, drum kiln and portable metal
kiln. The benefits associated with the use of the kilns include
use of less wood thus saving our forests, employment opportunities for the youth and less carbon dioxide transmission to the
environment during the charcoal making process. Other commercial farm forestry exhibits on display were tree products
such as tables and stools made from bamboo. Various herbal
products from different trees like the Neem tree and Aloe Vera
were also part of the exhibits. The Baobab tree and Date
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
KFS Forester Charles Utolo (left) explains a point to visitors at the KFS
stand during the KEFRI Open Day.
palm tree which produce ‘mabuyu’ and dates respectively were
used as an example of food products that come from trees. Bee
keepers were not left behind as they displayed honey and wax
from bees that they keep in forest areas, thus using the forest
for income generating activities without causing destruction to
the environment.
KFS staff were readily at hand to answer questions from
the members of the public regarding different services provided
and ways in which we can all help in conservation of Kenya’s
fores
GENERAL NEWS
Commercial Bamboo Farming in Kenya
Bamboo Shoots
Bamboo is the fastest growing plant in the world with
studies showing that the plant can grow to at least 20 meters
in three months given the right conditions. The plant is said to
employ about 1.5 billion people in the world with the industry estimated to rack in US $ 11 billion annually. China is the
largest producer of bamboo in the world accounting for 80%
of the world’s production but only consume 60% of what they
produce and export the rest. In Africa, Ethiopia is the largest
producer of bamboo and bamboo products accounting for 1/3
of what is produced in the continent. This equates to 1 million
hectares of the plant.
In the 1940, large tracts of forest land were cleared by
the colonial government in Kenya for large scale agriculture
and by the 1980s, this began to have a negative impact on the
environment. This is because not only were they clearing the
trees but they were also cutting down the bamboo forests at an
unsustainable rate. In order for the government to curb the destruction of the bamboo forests, the then President Daniel arap
Moi issued a directive banning the cutting down of indigenous
bamboo, a directive that still stands to this day.
Kenya has an estimated 150,000 hectares of bamboo
and 95% of this is under the protection of the government.
This is because bamboo farming is a relatively new venture in
the country, yet the country has the potential to produce much
Bamboo products
more due to its favorable climate. Bamboo farming requires less
water for the plant to grow and also does not require fertilizer
for it to flourish. Bamboo plants have significant ecological and
commercial advantages.
Bamboo is one of the best plants that can be used in
the mitigation of climate change. This is because of its ability
to absorb large amounts of carbon from the air. The bamboo
plant also has an extensive network of roots that hold the soil
and prevent it from being eroded making it ideal for holding
river banks.
Bamboo in various forms has been known to be used
in various industries. In the construction industry, bamboo has
been used for centuries in Asia and parts of South America in
the construction of houses. Good quality bamboo that is said
to be stronger than steel, can be used with cement in the construction of skyscrapers. Bamboo can also be used in scaffolding
during construction due to its ability to withstand heavy weight.
It is also used in the manufacturing of flooring as it is appealing
and easy to clean. Bamboo can also be used in the manufacturing of roofing tiles and wall paneling. Split bamboo culms can
also be used as gutters for water harvesting. Bamboo has also
been used in Asia and in Africa for fencing homesteads and creating boundaries in farms...
.
Bamboo products
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
13
GENERAL NEWS
Commercial Bamboo Farming in Kenya
...In farming, bamboo has long being used in making
farm tool handles, increasing support for plants such as bananas and also as props in horticultural farming of legumes and
flowers. Bamboo culms can also be used as water pipes for irrigating farm lands.
Bamboo shoots are used in Asian cuisine as they have
been proven to contain large amounts of potassium and vitamins. Consumption of bamboo shoots by children has been
proven to shorten the measles’ cycle. While cooking, bamboo
is a used among many Asian cultures for placing the food in the
hollow part of the bamboo. This is because it gives the food a
subtle but distinctive taste.
Bamboo has been used for thousands of years in Chinese
medicine in the treatment of infections. Its shavings can be
used in the treatment of coughs, stomach upsets, nausea and
many other minor ailments. Recent scientific research indicates
that bamboo can be used in the prevention of cancer, increase
weight loss among obese people, improve one’s appetite and
digestion and also in the treatment of hypertension.
Due to its rapid growth rate, bamboo can be a wonderful
alternative to firewood as a traditional source of fuel. It can also
be converted to charcoal, briquettes and biodiesel that can be
used as a source of fuel for homes and even industries.
Bamboo can also be used in the manufacture of high
quality and aesthetically pleasing furniture. This can in turn
help create jobs for the youth in the country and provide a good
source of income for the farmer. Bamboo is used in the manufacture of paper, chopsticks, toothpicks, household utensils and
musical instruments and thus could contribute to the preservation of Kenya’s forests.
KEFRI has also been conducting research on design and
production of bamboo products. They are involved in the training of artisans on the production of quality products and this
has helped in creating job opportunities among the youth of
this country. KEFRI has been involved in researching the different species that can be planted in different parts of the country
for profit maximization.
Due to its high growth rate, and its many uses, bamboo farming can be a very lucrative industry in Kenya. It has
the potential of creating new job opportunities in Kenya and
contribute to Kenya’s G.D.P. In Kenya, KFS has partnered with
KEFRI and Nyayo Tea Zone Development Corporation to plant
25 hectares of bamboo to be used in the curing of tea. This will
help in the reduction of energy costs by the corporation and
the villages around its tea zones and at the same time conserve
forests. The Service has also established bamboo nurseries that
supply seedlings to the surrounding communities.
Celebrating Earth Day
Forests in Kenya play a critical role in the provision of
wood fuel for domestic demand, mitigation of climate change,
and are a source of income from provision and sale of timber,
pulpwood, charcoal and resin.
Earth day is celebrated annually on April 22nd to support environmental protection and promote the understanding of
biological diversity for the benefit and sustainability of life on
earth.
Kenya Forest Service has been at the forefront of this
noble cause and has been collaborating with Mother Earth Network, Nairobi County Government, Nairobi Waterfall Conservancy, CLUSA, Community Without Borders, TARDA and youth
groups in Dandora to rehabilitate the infamous Nairobi River.
The event that took place at the Dandora waterfall, created a
great platform for conservation and awareness creation through
tree planting to conserve natural resources for future generations. Over 300 seedlings were planted to mark the occasion.
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
The focus of Earth Day this year is urban revitalization
through the theme ‘Green Cities’. According to the United Nations, more than half of the world’s population lives in cities and
by 2050, some 6.3 billion people will be living in urban areas. In
addition, there are at least one billion urban farmers and gardeners around the world, providing food and nutrition to poor
and wealthy consumers alike.
These initiatives will ensure individuals and particularly communities at large, live in harmony with the environment,
through mitigation of climate change and also for economic
growth. KFS has been successful in these initiatives through
community participation; where communities living adjacent
to forests are empowered and sensitized on the need to plant
trees around their homes to reduce pressure on forests and
take part in developmental projects towards improving their
living standards.
GENERAL NEWS
Ecosystem Conservator Kilifi County; Christopher Maina explains a point to
World Environment Day
visitors during the marking of the World Environment Day in Kilifi County.
KFS joined other organizations and stakeholders in celebrating World Environment Day in Ngomeni Primary School,
Kilifi County on 5th June 2014. This day is celebrated annually in
efforts to encourage the global community to realize the importance of the environment to mankind and the need to conserve
the same so as to mitigate rising sea levels and submergence.
The event themed “Raise your voice, not the sea level”
was focused on effects of climate change on small islands and
low lying coastal regions which are at risk of being submerged,
thus threatening their survival.
Trees serve as carbon sinks thus mitigating global warming, and KFS is spearheading various initiatives towards tree
planting at all levels through diverse partnerships. KFS has been
engaging schools through partnership with the Ministry of Education, to promote tree planting in schools dubbed, ‘Greening
Schools Programme’. This programme will enhance forest cover and carbon sinks, as the student population has the potential
to ensure survival of the seedlings. KFS has been promoting increased forest cover in the
country, aimed at attaining the recommended International
Standard of 10% of the territorial area of any country to be under
tree cover. Through the efforts of KFS, the country now boasts
of a 7% forest cover based on current assessments.
The establishment of Community Forest Associations
has further increased the participation of local communities in
tree planting, consequently enhancing ownership in environmental conservation. The operations of CFA’s in Kilifi County
among others, have enhanced protection of Mangrove forests
and also improved the living standards of communities adjacent
to the forests.
The day was also celebrated on 6th June at Dandora Secondary School where participants planted over 400 seedlings.
Speaking during the event Nairobi Senior forest Officer Ms.
Joyce Nthuku emphasized the need to grow trees both for conservation and commercial purposes. She emphasized the need
for stakeholder participation which has been instrumental in
helping the Service attain the current tree cover of 7%.
It is therefore critical that we all learn the need to protect our environment through sustainable use of our resources
by practicing the 3R’s; reduce, reuse and recycle thus conserving our environment.
Through the efforts of KFS,
the country now boasts of a 7% forest cover
based on current assessments.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
15
PICTORIALS
From left: Rhino Ark Chairman of Trustees Michael Karanja, KFS Board
Chairman Peter Kirigua, Kenya Water Towers CEO Francis Ole Nkake, KWS
Deputy Director Robert Njue and Executive Director Rhino Ark Christian
Lambarechts, present a cheque of Kshs. 102million, the amount that was
raised during this year’s Rhino Charge event.
From L to R: KFS Director Mr. D.K Mbugua, Ngong Road Forest Association
Chariman Mr. Simon Woods and Chase Bank Head of Brand & Marketing
Ms. Magdalene Mulandi cut a ribbon at the Ngong Forest.
The KFS team participates at this year’s KESAL event. The team emerged
2nd in the Bush Race category.
Nairobi Senior Forest Officer Ms. Joyce Nthuku (left) explains a point to
Her Excellency The First Lady Mrs. Margaret Kenyatta during a prize giving
day at State House Girls, Nairobi as the school’s Principal Mrs. Joan Muoti
looks on.
KFS Director Mr. D.K Mbugua and Chairman Friends of Karura CFA Prof.
Karanja Njoroge stand in front of a Karura Forest poster during the United
Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) conference at the UN offices in
Nairobi.
From L to R: Col. (Rtd.) J.N Kimani, Commandant; ENCOM, Rt. Rev. Bishop Kamau; In-charge Embu Diocese, Col. (Rtd.) Stephen Muigai; Regional
Commandant Eastern Conservancy and Rt. Rev. Bishop Salesius Mugambi; Bishop In-charge Uniformed Disciplined Forces, plant a tree at the Catholic
Cathedral, Mugoya.
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
PICTORIALS
Front Row from L to R: Father In-charge Embu Catholic Cathedral, National Coordinator Uniformed Disciplined Forces Chaplaincy; Father Peter Kimani,
Commandant ENCOM; Col. (Rtd.) J.N Kimani, Presiding Bishop In-charge of Uniformed Disciplined Forces; Rt. Rev. Bishop Salesius Mugambi, and other
guests as well as KFS staff pose for a photo outside the Catholic Cathedral, Mugoya.
South Korea Ambassador to Kenya Choi Donggyou
plants a tree during a tree planting event at Karera
Forest, Kiambu County. Looking on is KFS Director
D.K Mbugua.
From left: Machakos County Executive for
Environment Joshua Musili, National Bank CEO
Munir Ahmed, BAT’s Jerry Gilbert and KFS Board
Chairman Peter Kirigua water a tree planted at
the Machakos People’s Park, during the launch
of a tree planting exercise by the Kenya @ 50
Secretariat.
Eng. Shem Oduor Noah and KFS Board Chairman
Peter Kirigua water a tree planted at the United
Kenya Club during the Club Night.
KFS Chairman Peter Kirigua (seated at the centre) and the Kenya at 50 Secretariat Communications Director Hussein Mohammed pose for a photo with Stakeholders during the tree planting exercise at the People’s Park, Machakos
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
17
GENERAL NEWS
Development of Nairobi County Forestry Master Plan
Kenya Forest Service is seeking to develop an Urban
Forestry Master Plan for Nairobi County. This Master Plan will
help in greening the city and making it more attractive to its
residents and also to foreign investors. Speaking during a forum hosted by KFS and attended by stakeholders in the environment and forestry sectors, Nairobi Ecosystem Conservator
Stephen Kahunyo emphasized the need for all to be involved
in the development of the Master Plan, in order for the county to be a leader in sustainable development. plans to make the residential and commercial buildings greener. Some of the issues raised by the participants and KFS officials,
other forestry representatives and Nairobi County government
representatives, were the lack of availability of information on
the preferred species that would be planted to ensure their
survival and design uniformity. Participants also wanted KFS to
consult the county’s physical planning map and maps of the satellite towns around the county to identify the best areas where
tree planting would be carried out. His sentiments were emphasized by the HOC Nairobi
County, Charity Munyasia. These Master Plans will be aligned
with the new constitution and the Nairobi County Government
Master Plan that is in its final stages. The Urban Forestry Master
Plan will involve identifying correct tree species to be planted
in different locations around the county, maintenance of these
trees and the partners who will be involved in the maintenance
of these trees.
The forum gave attendees an opportunity to look at
design case studies from Malaysia, which has developed and
implemented a successful urban forestry Master Plan. The Master Plan that is being proposed will see Nairobi’s county design
plan and also new architectural designs, include trees into their
During the forum, it was agreed that a consultant
would be hired for the task of collecting and reviewing data that
will be used in drafting the Master Plan. Different stakeholders
promised to commit their time and resources towards helping
KFS in drafting this important Master Plan.
World Bioenergy Conference 2014
World Bioenergy conference is held every two years
and brings together stakeholders from the bioenergy sector.
This year over 50 countries converged at Elmia in Jönköping,
Sweden from 3rd to 5th June, 2014 to present and learn about
innovations in the energy sector.
The conference which began in 2004 offers a multitude
of interesting field trips and workshops in a bid to enlighten the
participants from a know how attitude to a show how attitude.
The conference which celebrated its tenth anniversary this
year was focused on creating jobs, raising people out of poverty and slowing down climate change. The workshop has
overtime established a meeting place for the international exchange of knowledge and experience in the bioenergy sector.
It has demonstrated that bioenergy is an industry of the future
through the influence on development changes and improving
livelihoods in the respective countries of the participants.
In many parts of the world, energy supply is being diversified to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide greater energy
security. The conference was not only graced by the energy in-
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
dustry, but also the forestry industry which has great potential
both for the efficient use of by-products and for dedicated energy production.
KFS has been involved in these noble activities particularly empowering communities living adjacent to forests to
embrace conservation and be in the know regarding matters
pertaining to climate change both for individual gain and also
for environmental sustainability and energy production. The
Service has therefore enhanced promotion of renewable energy technologies since approximately 70% of Kenyans depend on
wood fuel for domestic use. This involves alternative energy use
such as biogas and energy saving jikos which has reduced pressure from trees.
These technologies if embraced will slow down acts
of deforestation and maximize on the forests’ role of mitigating climate change, as well as improving living standards of the
beneficiaries.
GENERAL NEWS
2014 KFS Golf Days
Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Senior Director of Administration Amb. Julius K. Kandie receives the Hidden Hole award from the Nakuru
Golf Club Chairman Mr. Michael Kandie at the Nakuru Golf Club.
Samuel Wachira produced a fine round of golf to
emerge the overall winner of the Chairman’s prize that was
sponsored by Kenya Forest Service on Saturday 26th April, 2014
at the Nakuru Golf Club. The tournament was termed one of
the most difficult as members complained of a tough course
but this did not deter Mr. Wachira who playing off handicap 12,
posted a total of 39 stableford points, posting 19 points on the
1st nine and 20 points on the 2nd nine to claim the overall prize.
Wachira could not hide his joy after winning the overall award.
The staff winner’s prize went to KFS Chief Corporate
Communications Officer Charles Ngunjiri who posted 28 points
and was followed by the Principal Kenya Forestry College, Prof.
Donald Ogweno who posted 21 stableford points. The lady’s
prize was won by Wangui Kimani who returned a score of 35
points. Speaking on behalf of the KFS Director, Prof. Ogweno
said that he was pleased with the partnership between KFS and
Nakuru Golf Club as it is a club that the Service holds dear seeing
as it usually marks the start of the annual Kenya Forest Service
Golf Series. He was also impressed by the amount of tree planting that is happening at the club and added that he was looking
forward to working with the club in the future.“Tree planting is
not just for environmental conservation, but it is also a great
commercial opportunity that must be explored,” he said.
Elsewhere at the Thika Sports Club, Betty Mutua produced a stunning round of golf to win the overall award of the
Kenya Forest Service Golf Day tournament played on Saturday
24th May 2014. Playing off handicap 24, Betty posted 20 points
in the 1st nine and 24 points in the 2nd nine for an impressive
score of 44 points in a field graced by 184 golfers. Betty could
not hide her joy of being the overall winner and attributed her
impressive performance to lots of practice and playing with a
great team that motivated her to play well.
Antony Kabucho playing off handicap 16 was the men’s winner
scoring 43 points, 21 points in the 1st nine and 22 points in the
second nine. The men’s runner up prize went to Patrick Kingori
playing off handicap 1 with a total of 41 points. The 3rd men’s
prize went to handicap 26 Dr. Isaack Chirugu who returned a
score of 40 points.
The ladies prize was won by handicap 36 Dorcas Njogu
who scored 20 points on the 1st nine and 22 points in the 2nd
nine for a total of 42 points. The Senior Deputy Secretary Natural Resources, Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Mr. Onesmus F. Kibuna won the Sponsors prize with 30
points 20 in the 1st nine and 10 in the 2nd nine while KFS’ Chief
Communication Officer Charles Ngunjiri who is also the captain
of the club was the runner up with 28 points.
In the Director’s speech read on his behalf by the
Senior Deputy Secretary Natural Resources at the Ministry of
Environment, Water and Natural Resources at the prize giving
ceremony, he emphasized the government’s efforts of increasing the tree cover to 10% by the year 2030 as stipulated in the
constitution. He praised the Thika Sports Club for its efforts in
planting more trees and those of different species. Also present
was the KFS Deputy Director Forest Extension Services, Mr. Patrick Kariuki and Head of Corporate Communications, Ms. Anne
Kaari.
KFS Deputy Director Forest Extension Services Mr. Patrick Kariuki presents
the Lady's Prize to Dorcas Njogu at the Thika Golf Club.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
19
PROJECT NEWS
Redd+ Implementation in Kenya
Past attempts to increase forest cover and address the
problem of deforestation and forest degradation in the country have not been very successful, undermined by among others the increasing demand for land for agriculture, settlement
and other developments, high energy demand and inadequate
funding to support investments in the forestry sector. Unresponsive policy and poor governance in the forestry sector have
often in the past compounded these problems. REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and
forest Degradation), and the role of conservation, sustainable
management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon
stocks, presents a great opportunity to reverse the negative
trend by providing innovative approaches, including incentives
that support implementation of a comprehensive strategy that
effectively supports sustainable management and conservation
of existing forested areas and at the same time reduce forest
sector carbon emissions. REDD+ is a climate change mitigation
process which seeks to provide compensation to governments,
communities, companies or individuals in developing tropical
countries for actions taken to reduce GHG emissions from the
forest sector. REDD+ seeks to create value for the carbon stored
in forests.
REDD+ implementation will involve the design and application of appropriate land and forest management practices,
including enhanced forest sector governance, to reduce deforestation and forest degradation and to support conservation
and sustainable management of available forest resources. The
Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), the UN-REDD programmes and other bilateral supported programmes have been
instrumental in providing technical and financial support for
these efforts. The Ministry of Environment, Water and Natural
Resources, through Kenya Forest Service, coordinates the Readiness process in the country. A number of activities are currently
going on in the country to support efforts to design, develop
and apply strategies and programs to reduce emissions and enhance carbon sink capacities of forest ecosystems. In addition, significant policy, legislative and institutional changes have occurred over the last few years in Kenya that
complement the REDD+ efforts in the country. The Constitution,
National Development Plan (Vision 2030), The Arid and Semi
Arid Lands (ASALs) Policy, the National Land, Energy, Agriculture Policies, and the National Climate Change Response Strategy and Action Plan, identify forestry as one of the key sectors
for delivering national sustainable development and climate
change goals. The Environment and Forest Policies and supporting legislation are also under review to align them with the Constitution and to embrace emerging issues like climate change,
participatory management and REDD.
Kenya Forest Service has also undergone significant
transformation, in line with the Forest Act 2005, to embrace
a modern, decentralized and transparent approach to forest
management that ensures full participation of stakeholders.
The World Bank, UNDP and the Finnish Government have significantly supported forestry conservation efforts in the dry
lands, aware that these areas hold most of the country’s forest
resources, and equally hold the greatest potential for reducing
carbon emissions and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. The REDD+ readiness process should reinforce these activities
and future sector engagements.
Construction of County Offices by MMMB
Miti Mingi Maisha Bora (MMMB) is a programme under the Kenya Forest Service that is funded by the Government of Finland,
whose main aim is to support the forest sector in the country.
One of its main agendas is to build and equip offices for KFS.
In its 2013-2014 work plan, the Project intends to build KFS
county offices mainly targeting the Head of Conservancies offices. The conservancies that have been targeted are the Head
of Conservancy’s office in Isiolo County, Head of Conservancy’s
office in Kisumu County and the Kwale County office. This is to
be done through the structures that already exist at KFS. The
construction of the county offices is expected to be completed
in a span of 6months. The Project will also fully equip the offices
with modern equipment.
Previously constructed offices include the Head of Conservancy
North Rift office in Uasin Gishu County, Head of Conservancy
North Eastern office in Garissa County and the Head of Conservancy Nairobi County Office which are already complete.
The Project Manager of MMMB Mrs. Zipporah Toroitich has ex20
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
pressed her delight at the Project’s support of KFS. She said that
the project intends to build ultra modern facilities that will last
for years to come. She also encouraged the contractors to give
their best and add a personal touch to the facilities. The Finnish
Government is also pleased with the Project and has pledged to
build even more offices for the organization in future.
From left: Kwale Ecosystem Conservator Ms. Nafasi Mfahaya and MMMB
Project Manager Zipporah Toroitich hand over drawings for the new county
offices to the contractor who will construct the offices.
PROJECT NEWS
Ethiopian Delegation Pays a Visit to SCBFFE Projects
KFS through the SCBFFE project played host to a delegation from Ethiopia who were in the country to learn about
what the service is doing to help farmers improve their livelihoods through the Farmer Field Schools. The delegation represented the Sustainable Natural Resource Management Project in the Rift Valley Area of Oromia Region in Ethiopia. This
is a JICA funded project which is aimed at improving natural
resources in the target area using the FFS approach.
The KFS SDD Field Operations, Mr. Emilio Mugo gave
the delegation a brief overview of what KFS is doing to conserve and sustainably manage forest resources. He noted
that in 2010, a new constitution was promulgated and a new
system of governance emerged; that of the national government and the county government. Therefore the KFS Acts
and Policies are currently being aligned to fit into the new
constitutional dispensation. Mr. Mugo also emphasized that
policies must respond to regional, national and international
agreements.
KFS’ SCBFFE Project Manager Ms. Jane Ndeti while
speaking during the visit to the service’s headquarters, said
that Farmer Field Schools came up as a result of the need
to improve rural livelihoods through promotion of farm and
trust lands, tree planting and tree based enterprise. Through
KFS Senior Deputy Director; Field Operations Mr. Emilio Mugo gifts SNRM
Project Team Leader Mr. Shinji Ogawa during a visit to the KFS Headquarters
offices, as the SCBFFE Project Manager Jane Ndeti and the Assistant Director; Biomass Energy Jim Okuto look on.
the FFS famers are able to improve their livelihoods by starting income generating activities.
The Ethiopian delegation had a chance to visit successful FFS projects such as Ufunguo FFS in Miambani (Kitui), Neema FFS in Mbeere (Embu) and they also visited a graduated
Farm Forestry Farmer, Mr.Jacob Njiru’s farm in Embu County.
GZDSP Strengthens Community Participation in Forest Management
KFS Deputy Director; Forest Conservation and
Management Esau Omollo handing over a copy
of the agreement to the GZDSP Project Manager
Jerome Mwanzia.
The Forest Act 2005 section 35
requires that every state forest, local
authority forest and provisional forest
be managed in accordance with a management plan. The act also requires that
in preparing and adopting such management plans, the Kenya Forest Service or
the local authority shall consult with the
local forest committee. The purposes of
these participatory forest management
plans are to involve all stake holders in
the management of forest resources as
required by the Forest Act 2005 section
46 which outlines community participation in forest management.
GZDSP (Green Zones Development Support Project) has supported
the preparation of 24 Participatory Forest Management Plans and agreements
for 24 forest stations within the project
area since its inception. The preparation
of these management plans involved
the participation of all stakeholders and
more so the Community Forest Associations. After the approval of the PFMP, the
management agreements are negotiated and entered between the Director of
Forest and the Community Forest Association. These management agreements
spell out the roles and responsibilities of
the parties involved in the management
and conservation of the forest. They also
confer upon the Community Forest Association some forest user rights.
The GZSDP supported the launch
of 15 management plans and signing of
management agreement as from 14th
April 2014 to 24th April 2014. The occasions were presided over by the Senior Deputy Director-Field Operations
Mr. Emilio Mugo, Senior Deputy Director-Corporate Services Ms. Monica Kalenda, Deputy Director-Forest Extension
Services Mr. Patrick Kariuki and Deputy
Director–Forest Conservation and Management Mr. Esau Omollo on behalf of
the Director. The colorful ceremonies
were conducted at the respective Forest
Stations.
In their speeches, the Chief Guests
encouraged the CFA members to continue cooperating and partnering with KFS
in conserving and protecting forests for
the benefit of all. The occasions were also
graced by donor representatives, County
Government representatives, Provincial
Administration and Chairpersons of the
Community Forest Associations as well
as hundreds of forest adjacent communities.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
21
COMMENTARY
Watershed Management by Col. (Rtd.) J.N KIMANI
Management was held in Arizona, USA from 23rd March to 12th
April, 2014 to explore innovative approaches to better practices
in watershed management. Basically, Watershed Management
is the practice of systematic and comprehensive protection of
the quality and quantity of the water resources within a drainage basin.
The International Watershed Management Seminar is an
annual event that is organized by the US Forest Service: DepartCol. (Rtd.) J.N Kimani; Commandant-ENCOM (second from right) at a workment of Agriculture, with a view to promote Sustainable Forest
shop on Watershed Management in the U.S Management and Biodiversity Conservation. While at the semWatershed is a region delineated with a well defined top- inar, it came out evidently that partnership and alliances, govographic boundary and water outlet. It is a geographic region ernment support, involvement of local communities, identificawithin which hydrological conditions are such that water be- tion of techniques and skills of solving problems and developing
comes concentrated within a particular location, for example a of strategies and action plans are some of the approaches to
river or reservoir by which the watershed is drained. The major manage watersheds. The attendees from 21 countries all over
watersheds we have in Kenya are: Aberdares Ecosystem, Mount the world who attended this seminar undertook field visits to
Kenya Ecosystem, Mount Elgon Ecosystem, Mau Ecosystem, and Phoenix, Safford, along Colorado River, Roosevelt Dam and FlagCherangani Ecosystem. Watersheds sustain life, in more ways staff all within Arizona.
As the seminar came to closure, the effects of not prothan one. According to the Environmental Protection Agency,
more than $450 billion in foods, fiber, manufactured goods and tecting watersheds were worrisome and called for better protection and professional management of watersheds, not only
tourism depend on clean, healthy watersheds.
Healthy watershed provides many of us with drinking by the forest officers but also by the support of other profeswater, recreational opportunities and aesthetic beauty. How- sionals such as hydrologists, soil scientists, local inhabitants,
ever, there are problems facing watersheds all over the world. and urban inhabitants for better management. There is also
For instance, some of the problems we experience are develop- need to support those who live upstream so that they do not
ment of industries, interruption of water flow, development of conduct activities which could interfere with the flow of water.
The writer is the Commandant KFS: Enforcement and
urban centers, and invasion of alien species just to name a few. It is for this reason that the International Seminar on Watershed Compliance Division (ENCOM)
Whose Responsibility Is It?
by Monicah Ruto
Forests are some of the most important natural resources that have been gifted to mankind for their sustained existence
on earth. Without question, they provide us with huge amounts
of tangible and intangible benefits, without which indeed, all life,
less to say human life, would fall under risk of extinction. It is
therefore vital for us to realize the importance of forest cover,
22
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
to conserve them, and ultimately to work towards a sustainable
way to maintain our forests and meet our needs at the same
time.
The Bible teaches us that God is not only redeeming his
people, but He is also restoring the whole of creation (Rom.
8:18-23). Just as we show our love for the Savior by reaching
out to the lost, we believe that we also show our love for the
Creator by caring for his creation. Because clean air, pure water, and adequate resources are crucial to public health and civic
order, the government has an obligation to protect its citizens
from the effects of environmental degradation. This involves the
urgent need to relieve human suffering caused by bad environmental practices. Because natural systems are extremely complex, human actions can have unexpected side effects. We must
therefore approach our stewardship of creation with humility
and caution.
Why then do we allow our actions to ruin the future for
COMMENTARY
....posterity when the command was so clear? Do we
stop to look at our actions when we clear that forest? When we
throw plastics all over? When we cultivate river banks? When
we build our houses along the river’s course?
As we embrace our responsibility to care for God’s earth,
we reaffirm the important truth that the worship of the Creator
will be evident through nurturing of His creation. God entrusted
the care of his earth and its species upon our first parents. That
responsibility has passed down to our hands. We affirm that
God-given dominion is a sacred responsibility to steward the
earth and not a license to abuse the creation of which we are a
part. We are not the owners of creation, but simply its stewards,
summoned by God to “watch over and care for it” (Gen. 2:15).
This implies the principle of sustainability: our uses of the earth
No Longer A Liquor Slave
must be designed to conserve and renew the earth rather than
to deplete or destroy it.
Planting God’s Trees
“In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the
tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” We are all responsible
for maintaining the environment so let’s go back to the original
plan and plant tress where birds can nest and bring forth their
nestlings and balance the ecosystem. In one command, the Bible gives an excellent ecological principle: “If you come across
a bird’s nest beside the road, either on a tree or on the ground
and the mother was sitting on the young or on the eggs, do not
take the mother with her young.”
Sgt Tito Okello
Whenever one of us becomes a victim of alcohol and drug addiction, he or she not only becomes a liability to himself but
also to his family and the entire organization. According to the
‘online free dictionary’, drug abuse is defined as the self-administration of drugs without any medical reason. Whether it is a
cigarette, alcohol, ‘bhang’ or sniffing of glue, it begins as a leisure escapade only to enslave its unsuspecting victim. Addiction
sneaks in like a ghost in the night and the brunt bared is huge:
spousal divorce, loss of friends, career, finances and life. The
challenge is: how do we save the victims of drug abuse? A craving in most cases doesn’t go away overnight but only when battled consistently over time until full rehabilitation is achieved.
Many people have tried quitting alcohol but they often stumble,
while others have had no courage to try quitting it but for *Peter, a story is told.
*Peter is a ranger attached to one of the outposts of KFS. Like
any other bottle lover, he was initiated into drugs and alcohol
through peer influence more than 10 years ago as a young National Youth Service recruit before joining the former Forest
Department. His first deployment saw him join the destructive
‘members club’. His thirst for drugs grew systematically but uncontrollably and depending on his pocket, he would either partake of wine, beer or illicit brews (chang’aa) apart from smoking
cigarettes and bhang. This affected his commitment to duty and
strained his relationship with his supervisors. He had graduated from a moderate consumer to an abuser of alcohol and was
now wholly dependent on it. The first sip had led to another and
another and consequently to every other.
To save him from peer influence, he was transferred to another
station where he only managed to quit smoking cigarettes and
bhang but degenerated further into alcoholism. This would then
spill over to his young family. *Peter admits to have abdicated
his fatherly and husbandly responsibilities as he had become a
liquor slave. His children were yearning for a responsible father
but he was not there for them. He was again transferred dishonorably to another station to save face. He was like a ball; an
analogy of a problem being passed from one Station to another
with no one able to stop the ball from rolling.
In his file, he had by then received numerous warning letters of
imminent dismissal. Left alone and miserable by his wife and
friends, he bowed to pressure and decided to quit alcohol but
this would only last for two weeks before a heavy relapse. He
would soon be transferred to another station where he had to
contend with being in cold police cells for drunken and disorderly behavior. One day while he was on duty, he was involved
in a grisly accident while under the influence of drugs and was
left for dead at the hospital. Even in such critical condition, his
friends would still sneak in liquor for him in a show of comradeship. They completely ignored the fact that he was convalescing
from the injuries and that any more alcohol would only hasten
him to the grave. Given his grave bound life and the pathetic state of his young
family, he heard the beseeching voice of his wife and the doctor.
This would be his turning point as he made the difficult decision
to quit alcohol. For now, he is trying to keep up with the Joneses. “Since then, life has been better. We have managed to do in
three years what we couldn’t do in 10”, his wife confessed in our
interview with her. This bold step surprised many who shared in
the memory of *Peter’s drunken past.
My clarion call to those who are still enslaved in alcoholism is
to confront their fears. Seek help from specialists and reformed
colleagues. If you stumble, get up, dust off your coat and keep
walking towards your sobriety. It is time we stand up and campaign against alcoholism that has continued to corrode our
rank.
{* not his real name}
23
STATION PROFILE
Shamanek Forest Station
A section of Shamanek Forest Station
Located about 10km from the world famous Thompson
Falls in Nyahururu Laikipia County, Shamanek Forest covers approximately 1,840.5 ha. The forest combines both indigenous
and plantation forest. Plantation forest mainly consists of forest
plantations of cyprus while the natural forest is made up of Olea
Africana (Wild Olive), Juniperus procera (East African Cedar),
Podocarpus, and Prunus Africana (Red Stinkwood) tree species.
Sandalwood is also found in the forest valleys.
Due to its location on the lee way side of Mt. Kenya, the
forest is in a dry area with average rainfall of about 900 mm per
annum with long rains falling between March and May and short
rains between October and November. The coldest months are
in July and August.
Shamanek forest is part of the larger Marmanet forest
that is also made up of the North and South Marmanet forests
in the county. It was previously part of the Ewaso Narok block of
the South Marmanet forest. The forest acts as one of the major
sources of water from Lake Bogoria in Baringo County, and is also
home to streams and springs that feed Matharara and Igwamiti
rivers.
The forest is managed by a forest manager who works
with the Shamanek Community Forest Association in conserving the forest. The community in and around the area helps KFS
with pruning the Cyprus trees in the plantations in order to help
produce high quality timber once harvested. The CFA is also in
talks with KFS to put up bandas that can attract tourists to the
forest as part of the ecotourism venture that KFS is promoting.
KFS has also partnered with corporate partners towards rehabilitating the forest. For instance in the year 2013, Royal Media
Services and Cooper Kenya Limited helped KFS in planting trees
in the forest.
The forest has the potential of being a world famous
eco-tourism site with its numerous waterfalls, nature trails, deep
valleys and high grounds for avid hikers and nature lovers. It is
home to elephants, baboons, Columbus monkeys, wild pigs, antelopes, hares, hyrax and hyenas and is a potential site for bird
watching due to its high number of bird species. The forest has
vantage viewpoints from where one can view the Great Rift Valley and it provides ideal high altitude athletic training grounds
due to its high elevation.
With its proximity to the Aberdare Ranges, Thompson
Falls and Nyahururu town, Shamanek Forest is strategically located to tap into the high number of local and international tourists
and bring in more income to the people in that area.
Igwamiti Waterfalls in Shamanek Forest
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
STAFF NEWS
KFS Commandant Awarded
Col. (Rtd.) John Kimani
Col. (Rtd) J.N. Kimani was on 29th January, 2014 awarded
a certificate by the Green Hand Organization, in honor of his exemplary work in environmental conservation.
While accepting the award at his office at the KFS Headquarters, he stated that he was not receiving the award just for
himself as it was not his efforts alone, but also on behalf of the of
the forest managers, forest rangers and all the men and women
who are working tirelessly towards forest conservation.
Green Hand Organization founder Mr. Hilary Kiprop Rutto
said that the organization made the decision to award the Commandant because of the significant role he has played so far in
protecting and conserving the environment, particularly in the
Mau and Cherangany areas, amongst others.
The Commandant has continuously rallied his forces to
ensure that our forests are well protected and without the KFS
rangers, this process would have been impossible. Through his
efforts together with that of the entire KFS, the forest cover has
been reversed from the staggering 1.9 percent to now well over
6.9 percent.
Green Hand Organization (GHO) is a duly registered body
under the Societies Act of Kenya, whose main objective is to protect and conserve the environment. GHO was registered in 2009
and has been carrying out various activities towards protecting
and conserving the environment. GHO has participated in various tree planting exercises organized by KFS in the Mau, Machakos and Karura areas just to name a few.
HIV/AIDS in Kenya
According to UNAIDS; HIV/AIDS prevalence in Kenya remains
high and is categorized as generalized – meaning that it affects
all sectors of the population. HIV/AIDS continues to erode much
of development gains, undermining the economy and destabilizing societies. This is mainly so because it affects people in
their prime years of life, the hardest hit being between the age
of 15-49 years.
The Kenya Forest Service workforce is directly/indirectly affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The work environment in the
forest management sector facilitates the increased vulnerability among the employees, including forest rangers who work
for long hours away from home and family. KFS strategic plan
2009/10-2013/14 identified HIV/AIDS as one of the threats that
will affect the achievement of its overall goals. In an effort to
manage HIV/AIDS, the HR and Administration Division, Employee Welfare and Benefits Section formulated the HIV/AIDS policy
to acts as a guide on how to manage the pandemic.
of Health, courtesy of the HR Welfare and Benefits Office, who
carried out a sensitization talk where some of the topics discussed were stigma and discrimination in the workplace, employee rights with regards to their HIV status, dealing with HIV/
AIDS among married couples, importance of knowing one’s HIV
status, best prevention measures, and so on.
Mr. Patrick Tialal, HR Officer in Charge of Welfare and Benefits
stated that plans are underway to set up an Aids Control Unit.
The ACU shall generate information on employee welfare and
service delivery through monitoring, evaluation and research
for planning, decision-making, resource allocation and managing response to HIV/AIDS.
The policy has enabled the Service to partner with other stakeholders to organize regular sensitization talks, Voluntary Counseling and Testing, distribution of information kits and condoms
among other activities. The Service can boast of its non-discriminatory medical cover that caters to all regardless of their HIV
status. KFS recently hosted representatives from the Ministry
A Counselor from the Ministry of Health Mr. Samuel Nyakundi addressing KFS staff members during the HIV/AIDS sensitization workshop
recently
25
STAFF NEWS
The KFS HQ Grounds
The field at Kenya Forest Service Headquarters along Kiambu
road is the main ground for the KFS football and volleyball teams and
it is where they hold their respective training sessions on a weekly
basis from 3p.m in the evening. The football team uses the pitch to
hold most of their home league matches which are usually played
over the weekends.
Apart from the two main teams, the pitch also hosts the Pepeta Football Academy which trains young aspiring footballers on Saturday mornings, Sunday afternoons and during the holidays. Thus
whenever the KFS football team has a match on the said days, their
matches are scheduled so as to not coincide with the children’s practice sessions.
The grounds are situated in a very serene environment, surrounded by trees and clean fresh air and so they are very conducive
for holding various activities such as corporate events, weddings and
others at a fee.
The KFS grounds which are used for various events and activities.
Forester with Hands of Gold
Kericho Forest Station Forester Mr. Victor Kabutbei at one of his nurseries.
Sitting in his humble office in Kericho Forest Station,
one cannot help but feel privileged to be sitting and talking to a
man who has received praise from different quarters and earned
himself a reputation as the forester who plants trees that never
die. But with all this admiration, he possesses a humble nature
that does not go unnoticed. His name is Victor Kabutbei.
Victor was born in Kiplombe Location, Esageri Division,
Koibatek District, Baringo County in a family of seven children.
He went to Kiplombe Primary School from 1980-1987. He then
joined Bartolomo Secondary School in Baringo County in 1988
and completed in 1991. In 1993, he joined the Kenya Forestry
College in Londiani and completed in 1995.
In 1996, he was posted to Chemsusu Forest Station in
Koibatek Baringo County as an Assistant Forester. He was later
transferred to Chemorgok Forest Station in 2001 as the Forester
in Charge. In 2004, he was posted to Baragoi Forest Station in
Samburu County where he stayed for four months before being
transferred to Loroki Division in 2005. In 2006 he went back to
26
school and did a one year Diploma in forestry. In 2007 he was
posted to Kibwezi Forest Station, Makueni County.
In 2008 he was later to be transferred to Kericho Forest Station due to the post election violence that had rocked
the country at the time. When he took charge at Kericho Forest
Station, there was no operation going on. He did the first clear
fell in October 2011 and planted, this was completed in 2012
February and planted new trees in March of the same year. A
total of 40 ha were planted, a 73ha plantation was established
in 2013 and in 2014, 140 ha have been completed.
One of the methods that he uses to make sure that
his trees grow well is supervision. He insists on supervising the
seedlings so that they are properly planted and always makes
sure to plant the trees as soon as possible after felling, before
the weeds develop. He also organizes patrols during the weekends to make sure the forest is intact.
One of the main challenges that he faces is that of
transportation of seedlings to the location of planting and he
has to depend on other organizations with which he has a good
rapport, to assist him. He also faces the challenge of shortage
of forest rangers as well as aging of rangers. Elephants are also
a big problem as they debark the trees, step on and even uproot
the young seedlings.
An avid volleyballer, Victor plays volleyball during his free time,
“my age is catching up with me and so I cannot play as much
as I would wish to”, he laments while laughing. When he is not
patrolling the forests over the weekends, he catches up on football matches, a game he also loves.
STAFF NEWS
Corruption in Kenya
Corruption can refer to many different types of illegal
acts, though they will usually all involve a person abusing their
authority for their own benefit, or for the benefit of family
and friends. This can either be government officials using public money for their own personal use, or corporate executives
improperly awarding contracts or taking other decisions in exchange for bribes. By the year 2030, it’s envisaged that Kenya
will have “transparent, accountable, ethical and results-oriented
government institutions”.
The Kenya Forest Service has adopted the KFS Anti-Corruption Policy which will ensure zero tolerance to corruption
through developing, implementing and institutionalizing necessary policies, legal and institutional frameworks. To ensure a
corruption free institution, KFS works within the provisions of
Acts of Parliament and other instruments designed to prevent
corruption and ensure effective service delivery.
KFS conducts corruption risk assessments from time to
time to enable identify corruption loopholes, and consequently
put in place prevention measures. This means that all departments are expected to identify the risk areas and inform the integrity committee.
The Service has made tremendous strides in preventing
corruption by ensuring corruption loopholes are sealed shut.
Some of the efforts geared towards sealing these loopholes include but are not limited to; setting up an integrity committee at
the headquarters and conservancy integrity committee in conservancies, pre-employment screening, awareness creation and
training on corruption, whistle blowing and protection of whistle
blowers and disciplinary measures arising from acts of fraud and
corruption.
Corruption is a vice that we must all hold hands together
to fight against.
KFS Team Excels at Fete
The Team leader for the KFS team in the Bush Race category Insp. Philip Ndiema receives the certificate for 2nd Best Corporate Team at KESAL.
Every year, corporate teams head to Marani Forest in Mt. Kenya to take part in team-building competitions at the Kenya
School of Adventure and Leadership (KESAL). The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has been participating at these events for the last
three years and this year was no exception. A contingent of KFS rangers participated in this year’s competitions emerging second
best in the bush race category. The teams comprised of groups of five individuals from each organization and were required to
finish a 10km race, through various obstacles and challenges in the shortest time possible and more importantly as a team.
The KFS team took to the race with a strategy that involved encouraging one another and running at the same pace from
start to finish. The KFS team comprised of Philip Ndiema, Hosea Rotich, Zebedee Kiprono, Wilson Mwangi and Eliud Kosgei, all from
the Enforcement and Compliance Division (ENCOM). They were awarded a trophy and certificates.
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
27
FEATURE STORY
Kipini Conservancy
KFS Forest Rangers on patrol at the beach on the edge of Kipini Conservancy.
Kipini Conservancy is a Provisional Forest formerly
known as Nairobi Ranch and is found largely in Lamu County
while a small section is located in Tana River County. It borders
Witu Forest Reserve and Tana River/Witu Settlement Scheme
to the West, Mombasa-Lamu road to the North, Lake Kenyatta Settlement Scheme to the East i.e. the Mpeketoni area and
the Indian Ocean to the South. The Provisional Forest covers an
area measuring approximately 22,016.4 hectares.
The Provisional Forest was gazetted vide legal notice
no. 214 of the 15th 2010 pursuant to section 26(1) of the Forest
Act 2005, to be managed by The Kenya Forest Service. It was
also gazetted as an environmentally significant area vide legal
notice no. 208 of 8th November, 2013.
Kipini is simply beautiful, as it offers a unique mix of wilderness and a taste of the coast, with plenty to see and experience
and also being in Kenya, a country endowed with incredibly diverse landscapes and unique geographical features, all teeming
with wildlife and home to more than 50 cultural communities,
it is indeed a luxury to be experienced by one and all. Kipini
is uniquely positioned between marine, forest, woodland and
grassland ecosystems.
The forest has a 20 kilometer beach line stretch considered the only elephant corridor found in the East African
Coastal Ecosystem.
Besides the white sandy beaches, there are ancient sand dunes
as well as seasonal and permanent wetlands and lakes most
of which are undisturbed and rich in plant diversity. Situated
at the Northern end of the Eastern Arc Mountains and Coastal
Forests biodiversity hotspot, the area is embedded in a zone
of internationally recognized importance and a rich assembly
of globally threatened plants and animals. The Conservancy is
an important habitat for rear and endangered plants and animals whose co-existence creates high aesthetic value to the
ecosystem.
The area is considered an important game migratory
corridor, a complete ecosystem rich in biodiversity with wetlands, swamps, rivers and lakes.
As one takes a drive around the conservancy, they get to see
a variety of animal as well as tree species among them the
Mpeketo tree after which the nearby town of Mpeketoni is
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THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
named. There is also a large number of Doum Palm trees, which
are a favorite among the locals as they provide a palm wine extracted from the juice of its young fruit and stems, apart from
the use of its fruits as food. However, there are some challenges that hinder conservation
efforts in the conservancy including extensive encroachment
on forest land by locals, illegal logging, poaching, charcoaling,
wildfires, agricultural land speculation and overgrazing by nomadic pastoralists. The ecosystem is also a potential security
hotspot due to competition for resources.
The illegal logging activities have resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of exotic and indigenous trees. This activity
poses a significant threat to the biodiversity of the area as well
as the conservation activities.
It is also estimated from field observation that at least
half of the provisional forest is degraded as a result of encroachment. Indeed as we drove through the conservancy, we came
across many homesteads belonging to people who had settled
in the forest, some of whom have been there for many years,
and they remain adamant about living there claiming that it is
the only home they know and they have nowhere else to go. The importance and associated socio-economic value of the
ecosystem necessitates heavy investment and support in conservation activities in order to restore the ecological integrity
of the ecosystem.
FROM THE FILES
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
29
HUMOUR & LEISURE
1
2
18
3
4
6
5
8
7
9
22
10
16
12
11
13
17
14
15
20
21
Across
1. Organisms and the physical factors that make up their environment.
3. Type of oven that produces temperature that can be used in the
drying of wood for fuel.
4. Largest gazetted urban forest in Nairobi County.
5. Comes from removing water and other volatile constituents from
animals or plants and is used in production of heat.
8. General term for forest crops and stands containing trees of com
mercial size and quality suitable for sawing into lumber.
9. Establishment of a forest stand of trees in an area where there were
no forests.
10. Forests characterized by high rainfall, with annual rainfall between
250-450 cm.
11. A common unit of land measure equal to 43,560 square feet or
1/640 square miles.
13. A tool to measure the diameter of a tree.
14. Selective removal of parts of a plant such as branches buds or roots.
15. Branches and other wood materials left on site after logging.
20. To mark a tree, usually by painting or cutting
Down
2. The art and science of growing forest trees.
6. Outermost layer of stems and roots of woody plants.
7. Degree of variation of life.
12. Upper layer or habitat zone formed by mature tree crowns and
including other biological organisms in forests.
15. A dead tree that is still standing.
16. A cluster of leaves.
17. Decay.
18. Boundary between two ecological communities.
22. Trunk of a tree.
Cartoon
Jokes
Every day, thousands of innocent plants are killed by
vegetarians.
Help stop the violence!!!.
Quotes
The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago.
The next best time is today.
~ Chinese proverb ~
Facts and Figures
DID YOU KNOW?
Assuming that it lives for at least 50 years, a tree exhales 2,721.6 Kilograms of oxygen in its lifetime, or about 54.4 Kilograms per year.
Knocking on wood for good luck originated from primitive tree worship when rapping on trees was believed to summon protective spirits in the trees.
30
THE FORESTER :: APRIL - JUNE 2014
Your Tree is
your Wealth
Croton Megalocarpus
Croton Megalocarpus
Croton is an extensive flowering tree in the Euphorbiaceae
family. It is fast growing in high potential areas and can grow up to
35m high. It takes 20-25 years to mature and may occur in mixed farming systems, woodlots and boundaries. The generic name ‘Croton’ is
based on the Greek word for ‘tick’, because of the appearance of the
seed. Croton megalocarpus is popularly known as Mukinduri in Kikuyu.
It has recently been illustrated in Kenya that Croton nuts are a more economical source of biofuel. Croton trees grow wild and yield about 0.35
liters of oil per kilo of nuts. Well dried nuts are used with charcoal in cooking stoves and as firewood. The seeds are also used as fodder when incorporated into poultry feed due to their high protein content (50%). Other products of the Mukinduri include timber, medicine and apiculture.
The tree acts as a windbreaker and also provides shade due to
its flat crown and horizontal layer of branches which make it useful in
providing shelter. Its leaves have high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous, resulting in soil improvement. It has conspicuous flowers which
make it suitable for ornamental purposes. Many land owners use Mikinduri trees as a boundary marker since it is not browsed by livestock. Mikinduri trees grow easily by direct sowing. The propagation can
also be from seedlings and wildlings. In counties such as Nyeri, Kiambu, Nandi and Kericho, flowering occurs between the months of
February and May, whereas in Bungoma county this takes place in
September, and between October and January in Kakamega county.
Pollination is done by insects and seed maturity takes about 5
months. Seeds can be collected from July to June depending on the region.
Seed extraction is a tedious activity that involves cracking of each fruit
with a hammer and splitting it open by hand to remove the seeds. Seeds
are cleaned by hand, sorting to remove debris and other broken pieces.
Seeds are then sun-dried by spreading a thin layer and turning regularly
to avoid overheating. They can be stored in an airtight container in a cool
dry place for a period of up to 2 years with no significant loss of viability.
Common Names:
Mukinduri (Kikuyu, Meru)
Muthulu (Kamba)
Musine (Luhya)
Masineitet (Nandi)
Lameruguet (Samburu)
Muhande
Mkigara
Chepkeleliet