The government has signed a new framework agreement aimed at restoring and protecting Ngong Forest while improving livelihoods for surrounding communities.
Principal Secretary for Irrigation Ephantus Kimani and Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko formalised the partnership with the Kenya Forest Service under the Ngong Forest Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (ICLIP). The programme targets Ngong Forest’s three blocks — Oloolua, Kibiko and Ngong Hill — with a focus on sustainable forest management and climate resilience through ecosystem restoration and community-driven conservation.
A key pillar of the agreement is large-scale tree planting and rehabilitation of degraded areas.
The project includes the establishment of a modern tree nursery with the capacity to produce one million seedlings and the planting of 350,000 trees over the next three years.
Strategic fencing will also be undertaken to protect restored sections of the forest. Stakeholders have already shown strong backing for the initiative.
During a recent resource mobilisation drive, partners pledged funds to fence 23 kilometres of the targeted 25 kilometres of Oloolua Forest, signalling confidence in the programme.
Restoration efforts are already underway. During this year’s International Day of Forests on March 21, the project launched rehabilitation activities that saw 3,000 trees planted and 2,000 fruit tree seedlings distributed to nearby communities.
The initiative will also incorporate public engagement activities, including a marathon scheduled for April 25, aimed at rallying citizens and stakeholders around environmental conservation and building collective responsibility in protecting natural resources.
Beyond conservation, the programme emphasises improving community livelihoods.
Planned interventions include beekeeping, the establishment of modern tree nurseries and other income-generating activities designed to reduce dependence on forest resources.
Additional components include the development of boreholes to boost water access, the promotion of clean cooking solutions to curb deforestation, installation of solar energy systems, and strengthening of Mazingira Clubs to nurture environmental stewardship among young people.
Implementation of the programme will follow strict environmental and social safeguards, with the Kenya Forest Service leading the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment process alongside public participation to ensure transparency, sustainability and community ownership.
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