Kenya Forest Service

Kenya Forest Service is a State Corporation established under the Forest Conservation and Management Act no 34 of 2016.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

As we build momentum towards the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem (IDCME), we celebrate the vital role of mangroves in protecting our coastline, supporting biodiversity and livelihoods, and strengthening climate resilience.

Lamu County is home to over 60% of Kenya’s mangrove forests. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) continues to play a key role in protecting, restoring and sustainably managing mangrove forests, while working with Community Forest Associations (CFAs) and partners to strengthen conservation efforts.

Join us on 26 July in Mokowe as we celebrate these extraordinary ecosystems under the theme: “Healthy Mangroves for Sustainable Blue Economy and Climate Resilience.”

Together, let us protect and restore our mangroves for a resilient future.

#IDCME2026 #MangroveConservation #LamuMangroves #KenyaForestService #BlueEconomy #ClimateResilience #MangroveRestoration #HealthyMangroves

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Rallies Youth for Global Mangrove Record

Senior Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests Dr. Clement Ng’oriareng today met Guinness World Record holder Truphena Muthoni and a team of young Kenyan content creators as part of preparations for the Kenya Scouts Association’s Guinness World Records mangrove restoration attempt scheduled for 26 July 2026 at the Jomvu Mangrove Ecosystem in Mombasa County.

The engagement focused on mobilizing youth participation, amplifying environmental awareness through digital platforms, and strengthening public engagement around the large-scale mangrove restoration initiative, which supports Kenya’s climate action agenda and the national 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme.

Dr. Ng’oriareng emphasized the critical role of young innovators and digital storytellers in inspiring environmental stewardship and positioning Kenya as a global leader in forest landscape restoration and sustainable conservation.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

COMMISSIONING OF KFS RESOURCE CENTRE & STAFF PRAYER BREAKFAST

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today advanced its institutional strengthening agenda with the commissioning of the KFS Resource Centre and the holding of a Staff Prayer Breakfast at its headquarters in Karura, Nairobi.

The commissioning ceremony was presided over by the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Presiding Bishop, Rev. Dr. Abraham Mulwa, at the invitation of Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko. The event brought together KFS staff, chaplains, and invited guests for a morning of thanksgiving, reflection, and dedication, underscoring the Service’s commitment to organizational excellence and the holistic well-being of its workforce.

Speaking during the event, Mr. Lemarkoko described the KFS Resource Centre as a strategic investment in the future of the Service and a critical pillar in building a knowledge-driven, innovative, and high-performing institution. He noted that the facility will enhance staff development, improve operational efficiency, strengthen evidence-based decision-making, and provide an enabling environment for collaboration, capacity building, research, innovation, and professional training as KFS continues to implement its mandate in forest conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of Kenya’s forest resources.

The Resource Centre was constructed by the Kenya Forest Service through the GreenZones Development Support Project Phase II (GZDSP II) with funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The project forms part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing forest governance, and supporting sustainable natural resource management in Kenya.

The Chief Guest, Bishop Rev. Dr. Abraham Mulwa commended KFS for demonstrating visionary leadership by investing in both institutional capacity and the spiritual well-being of its staff. He observed that modern public institutions cannot achieve sustainable impact through infrastructure and technical expertise alone, but must also nurture integrity, compassion, accountability, and servant leadership among their employees.

The Bishop noted that the commissioning of the Resource Centre symbolized KFS’s commitment to creating a culture of learning, innovation, and excellence, while the Staff Prayer Breakfast reflected a recognition that spiritual nourishment is essential in building resilient, ethical, and motivated public servants capable of serving the nation with dedication and honor.

He further announced the Africa Inland Church’s acceptance to serve as the mainstream church supporting the KFS Chaplaincy Programme in matters of faith, spiritual guidance, pastoral care, and chaplaincy development. The partnership is expected to strengthen staff counseling, moral leadership, mentorship, and the overall spiritual welfare of KFS employees across the country.

The Staff Prayer Breakfast provided an opportunity for collective prayer, encouragement, and fellowship, reinforcing the role of chaplaincy in promoting integrity, mental wellness, unity, hope, and a positive workplace culture within the Service.

The commissioning of the KFS Resource Centre therefore marks not only the unveiling of a modern facility, but also a renewed commitment by the Kenya Forest Service to nurture a workforce that is skilled, innovative, ethical, spiritually grounded, and fully equipped to advance Kenya’s national forest conservation and restoration agenda.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Explores Partnership with Open University of Kenya

As the forestry sector increasingly demands a workforce equipped with advanced skills in conservation, climate resilience, environmental governance, and digital innovation, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) is pursuing strategic partnerships aimed at expanding access to quality education and professional development for its staff.

KFS today held a consultative meeting with the Open University of Kenya to explore collaboration in academic training, capacity building, and career advancement for foresters and other officers across the Service. The meeting was chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, while the University was represented by Dr. Evans Mugeni and Ms. Ann Njagi.

The University presented its affordable and flexible online learning model, which includes recorded sessions that allow working professionals to study at their own pace while maintaining access to course materials.

Discussions focused on developing programmes aligned with KFS’s core mandate, including forestry management, conservation, climate resilience, and environmental governance, as well as potential collaboration with the Kenya Forestry College.

Both parties agreed to continue engagements to define priority training areas and establish a framework for future cooperation.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS, in partnership with Big Ship CBO and other stakeholders, today hosted the 4th Edition of the Mombasa Mangrove Mudbath Fun Run as part of the build-up to the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem (IDCME).

The event was graced by Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki, who flagged off the 7-kilometre race, while the County Forest Conservator (Mombasa County), Mr. Bernard Wahome, the Guest of Honour, flagged off the 4-kilometre fun run.

Speaking during the event, Big Ship CBO Executive Director Bosco Juma reaffirmed the organization's commitment to working with partners in restoring and protecting Mombasa's mangrove ecosystems through community-led conservation efforts.

The fun run culminated in the planting of 2,300 mangrove seedlings, demonstrating the collective commitment of government, conservation partners, community groups, the private sector, and learning institutions to restoring Kenya's coastal forests.

The event brought together various partners from the public and private sectors, including the County Government of Mombasa, Community Forest Associations (CFAs), students from the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), conservation organizations, community-based organizations, and private sector partners, highlighting the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing mangrove conservation ahead of IDCME.

#MombasaMangroveMudbathFunRun #MudbathFunRun #MangroveConservation #IDCME #BlueCarbon #ClimateAction #RestoreMangroves #PartnershipsForConservation #KenyaForestService #Mombasa

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Public Participation Meeting Endorses Plantation Harvesting in Iveti Forest

A public participation meeting on the proposed plantation harvesting exercise in Iveti Forest was held today at Kairo, bringing together government officials, community leaders, and other key stakeholders.

The meeting was chaired by Area Assistant Chief Mr. Robison Ndambuki and attended by the Assistant County Forest Conservator, the Forest Station Manager (FSM), the Ag. County Commander, and other Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers.

Participants included representatives from the Ward Administration, Village Elders, the Community Forest Association (CFA), the Timber Manufacturers Association, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), church leaders, boda boda operators, and members of the public.

The forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the planned harvesting exercise, seek clarification on the process, and share their views on its anticipated environmental, social, and economic impacts. KFS assured participants that the exercise would be undertaken in strict compliance with forestry laws, regulations, and sustainable forest management principles.

Following the discussions, stakeholders unanimously endorsed the proposed plantation harvesting exercise, expressing support for its implementation and recognizing its role in promoting sustainable forest management while generating socio-economic benefits for local communities.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Reaffirms Climate Action Commitment

The Kenya Forest Service, led by the Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, joined hundreds of running enthusiasts on Saturday for the second edition of the Uzalendo Half Marathon.

The Uzalendo Half Marathon seeks to promote patriotism, support education for underprivileged communities, and advance action to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The event brought together multiple state agencies, ministries, and private sector partners in a show of national unity and shared responsibility.

Speaking after the race, Mr. Lemarkoko said KFS’ participation reflects the Service’s commitment to corporate social citizenship and environmental stewardship.

He urged all Kenyans to take up tree growing as a practical contribution to climate change mitigation and adaptation.

“The effects of climate change are being felt across the country. As KFS, we are scaling up forest and landscape restoration. We have millions of quality seedlings ready for distribution as the rains approach, and we call on citizens, institutions, and partners to plant and grow trees,” Mr. Lemarkoko said.

Through such initiatives, KFS continues to position forests as a nature-based solution to climate change while fostering partnerships that advance both environmental sustainability and social wellbeing.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Champions Community-Led Conservation Through Sustainable Forest-Based Livelihoods

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community-led forest conservation through the sustainable, non-consumptive use of forest resources during an inaugural engagement with communities living around the Tinderet Forest ecosystem.

The engagement laid the foundation for a collaborative initiative that seeks to enhance forest conservation while improving livelihoods through ecotourism, camping, hiking, conservation sports and other nature-based enterprises that generate income without compromising the integrity of the forest.

Speaking during the meeting, Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko emphasized that communities remain central to the success of sustainable forest management.

"Communities are our greatest partners in conservation. By investing in sustainable, non-consumptive forest enterprises, we can safeguard our forests while creating jobs, improving livelihoods and building resilient local economies," said the CCF.

He called on all stakeholders to work together in unlocking the ecological and economic potential of the Tinderet Forest landscape for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Community representative Mr. Moses Lelan thanked the Chief Conservator for honouring the community's invitation and reaffirmed the community's commitment to partnering with KFS in advancing sustainable forest conservation and livelihood improvement.

The engagement was attended by North Rift Regional Forest Conservator Mr. David Rono, Mau Regional Forest Conservator Mr. Dennis Kerengo, County Forest Conservators from Nandi and Kericho, representatives of the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), Community Forest Associations and other conservation stakeholders.

[The Ngong Road Forest Association @NRFA2015]

🌱🌿 Partnerships that grow a greener future!

Proud to have partnered with @KeForestService, IFCMS Kenya Ltd, @KenyaBreweries, and Standard Chartered Kenya to plant 250 tree seedlings.

We invite more corporates to join us in environmental stewardship.

#JazaMiti

[State Department For Forestry Kenya @Forestry__Kenya]

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3–4.

Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi today led the Ministry's leadership in condoling with the family of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) CEO, Dr. Jane Njuguna , following the passing of her father, Mwalimu Josphat Simon Karinga.

Cabinet Secretary Environment, Climate Change & Forestry Dr. Deborah M. Barasa , Principal Secretaries, Dr. Festus Ng’eno ( Environment and Climate Change), Mary Muthoni ( Public Health), KEFRI Board Chairman Lieutenant General (Rtd.) Walter Raria Koipaton also conveyed their condolences to Dr. Jane Njuguna and her family.

Mwalimu Njagi, 91, a farmer and a founding member of Kirima Slopes Dairy Ltd and OLLIN SACCO, passed away on Wednesday , 8th July 2026, and was laid to rest on Thursday, 16th July 2026, at his home in Ngarange Village, Gachigi Sub-Location, Kirinyaga County.

The PS was accompanied by his National Treasury Counterpart Dr. Chris Kiptoo , Heads of Department and SAGAs led by Forestry Secretary for Administration, Mr. Patrick Meso and the Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko.

Also in attendance was Hon. Martha Karua, Kirinyaga County Deputy Governor David Githanda and other distinguished guests.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Kenya Forest Service (KFS), represented by the Overall In-charge of Karura Forest Ecotourism Facility, Mr. Munene Edward, joined the Embassy of Türkiye in Kenya and the Kenya National Police Service (KNPS) in commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the 15 July Democracy and National Unity Day of the Republic of Turkiye at the Gigiri Police Headquarters, Nairobi.

The event, graced by H.E. Subutay Yuksel, Ambassador of Turkiye to Kenya, saw the ceremonial planting of 25 tree seedlings, symbolizing the enduring partnership between Kenya and Turkiye and reaffirming a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.

Mr. Munene commended the collaboration between KNPS and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) in strengthening law enforcement through capacity building and infrastructural modernization. He also encouraged the exploration of partnerships with KFS to advance forest conservation through technology, innovation and enhanced protection and enforcement.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Warning‼️ Trees are taking over your network... and we're not apologizing for it! 🌲📡😄

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Explores Partnership to Strengthen Staff Chaplaincy

Recognizing the vital role chaplaincy plays in promoting the spiritual well-being, moral values, emotional resilience, and overall welfare of staff, @CCF_Kenya Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today met AIC Presiding Bishop and AIC Milimani Church Council Rev. Dr. Abraham Mulwa at the Diaspora Area Church Council offices, where he was hosted by Bishop Dr. Stephen K. Mairori, the Diaspora Area Church Council Bishop and Senior Pastor of AIC Milimani, Nairobi.

The discussions centered on establishing a strategic partnership between KFS and the Africa Inland Church (AIC) to strengthen the Service's Chaplaincy Programme. The leaders explored collaboration in providing spiritual guidance, pastoral care, counselling, mentorship, and values-based leadership development for staff, while enhancing the chaplaincy's capacity to support employee well-being, foster ethical conduct, and build a resilient, motivated, and service-oriented workforce.

[State Department For Forestry Kenya @Forestry__Kenya]

Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi today visited the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jane Njuguna, and the wider Njagi's Family to convey his heartfelt condolences following the passing of their father, Mwalimu Josphat Simon Karinga Njagi.

Speaking during the condolence visit, the Principal Secretary described the late Mwalimu Njagi's passing as a great loss, noting that he leaves behind a legacy of integrity, humility, and dedicated service to society. He assured the bereaved family that the State Department for Forestry stands with them during this difficult time and continues to keep them in its thoughts and prayers.

The PS was accompanied by senior officials from the State Department for Forestry and its Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs), led by the Secretary for Administration, Mr. Patrick Meso, and the Kenya Forest Service Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS, Kyoto Network Explore Strategic Partnership to Advance Forest Conservation

Recognizing that effective forest conservation requires strong partnerships, innovation and shared commitment, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today held high-level discussions with Kyoto Network to explore collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening the protection and sustainable management of Kenya's forests.

@CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko hosted a delegation from @TheKyotoNetwork led by its Co-Founder, Mr. Amro Zakaria, for a consultative meeting focused on identifying strategic areas of cooperation in support of Kenya's greening agenda.

The discussions explored a wide range of opportunities, including the expansion of apiculture as a sustainable livelihood alternative to reduce dependence on extractive use of forest resources, promotion of ecotourism, deployment of technology and artificial intelligence to enhance forest management and protection, as well as resource mobilization to scale up conservation interventions across the country.

Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Lemarkoko emphasized that strategic partnerships are indispensable in accelerating ecosystem restoration and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Kenya's forests.

"No single institution can achieve sustainable forest conservation alone. By bringing together government, the private sector, development partners and communities, we can harness innovation, mobilize resources and create lasting solutions that safeguard our forests while improving livelihoods. We welcome Kyoto Network's commitment and look forward to building a partnership that advances Kenya's greening agenda," said Mr. Lemarkoko.

Mr. Zakaria reaffirmed Kyoto Network's commitment to working closely with KFS in delivering innovative, technology-driven conservation solutions and expanding community-centred initiatives that contribute to both environmental sustainability and socio-economic development.

"We believe meaningful partnerships are the foundation of lasting conservation outcomes. Kyoto Network is committed to collaborating with KFS to leverage innovation, artificial intelligence and sustainable financing to protect forests, empower communities and support Kenya's ambitious restoration and climate goals," said Mr. Zakaria.

The meeting concluded with both institutions agreeing to establish a joint technical committee of experts to further the discussions and develop a framework for formalizing the partnership and implementing the identified areas of collaboration.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

#MangroveMadBath
#TreesForBetterLives
#JazaMiti

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Champions Sports, Supports Its Athletes

Sports continue to demonstrate that they are more than competition, they are a powerful tool for mobilizing communities around environmental conservation, healthy living, and sustainable development.

During the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) athletics team delivered an exemplary performance at the Kaptagat Forest Marathon, proudly representing the Service alongside hundreds of athletes from across the country.

Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko met the athletes after the race, congratulating them for their outstanding performance, discipline, resilience and dedication. He commended them for being excellent ambassadors of the Service and encouraged them to continue pursuing excellence both on and off the track.

As a demonstration of the Service's unwavering support, Mr. Lemarkoko presented the team with a token of appreciation and reaffirmed that KFS will continue investing in and supporting its athletes, recognizing sports as an important platform for promoting fitness, teamwork, discipline and national service while advancing the conservation agenda.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Deputy President Kindiki Leads Launch of 270km Kaptagat Electric Fence

Deputy President Prof. @_KithureKindiki, today led the launch of the 273-kilometre electric fence around the Kaptagat Forest Ecosystem during the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (@Kaptagat_icp) at Penon Forest Station, marking a major milestone in the protection of one of Kenya's most important water towers.

Constructed by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the electric fence will strengthen the conservation of the Kaptagat Forest Ecosystem by curbing illegal activities, reducing human-wildlife conflict and safeguarding the forest's rich biodiversity and vital water catchment functions.

Kaptagat Forest plays a critical role in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration, supports biodiversity conservation, regulates water resources and underpins agriculture, energy production and livelihoods. Its protection is key to the Government's 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme and the national target of attaining 30 percent tree cover by 2032.

As the institution mandated to conserve, develop, sustainably manage and protect Kenya's forests, KFS continues to implement strategic interventions that secure forest ecosystems while advancing ecosystem restoration and sustainable community livelihoods.

The Deputy President also officially launched the commercial cultivation of cocoa, an agroforestry initiative expected to increase tree cover while providing farmers with a sustainable source of income.

Speaking during the event, Prof. Kindiki reaffirmed the Government's commitment to protecting Kenya's forests as a foundation for environmental sustainability, water security and economic growth, and commended KFS, development partners and local communities for their continued efforts in restoring the Kaptagat ecosystem.

The event was hosted by the Kenya Forest Service, led by @CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, and attended by Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry @DeboraBarasa, Principal Secretary for @Forestry__Kenya, @GMugambi_CBS, Patron of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme and Principal Secretary to the National Treasury @DrChrisKiptoo, alongside other national and county leaders, development partners and conservation stakeholders.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Backs Integrated Development to Strengthen Forest Conservation

@CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko joined the Head of Public Service, @koske_felix , together with national and county leaders and other stakeholders, on a series of development engagements under the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), as part of the Government's integrated approach to ecosystem restoration and sustainable rural development.

These included the launch of Cheminye Dam, a tour of a climate-smart demonstration farm, the commissioning of the Kapkoi Cow Hotel, and a consultative engagement with professionals and farmers at Kimore Boys Hall. The forum focused on sustainable land management, climate-smart agriculture, environmental stewardship, and the critical role of communities in protecting natural resources.

The initiatives complement ongoing forest conservation efforts by addressing key drivers of forest degradation. Investments in water infrastructure, climate-smart farming, modern livestock management, and community capacity building help reduce pressure on forests while improving food security, strengthening livelihoods, and enhancing resilience to climate change.

As the national agency mandated to conserve, develop, and sustainably manage Kenya's forest resources, the Kenya Forest Service continues to promote integrated landscape management through partnerships that connect forest conservation with water security, agricultural productivity, and socio-economic development.

The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme remains a flagship model for balancing environmental restoration with community prosperity, demonstrating that healthy forests are central to resilient communities and sustainable national development.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Champions Biogas as a Sustainable Alternative to Firewood

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) continues to champion clean energy solutions as a key strategy for reducing pressure on forests, minimizing reliance on firewood, and advancing sustainable environmental conservation.

Today, @CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko joined the Head of Public Service, @koske_felix, alongside government leaders, development partners and other stakeholders at St. Agatha Mokwo Girls Secondary School for the commissioning of a new 50-cubic-metre biogas plant.

The newly commissioned facility complements the school's existing 30-cubic-metre biogas plant and bakery, both established by the Kenya Forest Service under the Green Zones Development Support Project (GZDSP) Phase I. Together, the two biogas plants will substantially enhance the school's clean energy capacity, reducing dependence on firewood, lowering operational costs, improving the learning environment, and contributing to climate change mitigation through reduced carbon emissions.

Beyond promoting clean energy, KFS has invested in the institution through the construction of a modern biochemistry laboratory to strengthen science education and research. The Service has also supported tree growing and riparian restoration along the river bordering the school, helping protect water catchment areas, restore degraded ecosystems, and improve environmental sustainability.

The integrated interventions reflect KFS's holistic approach to conservation by combining ecosystem restoration, renewable energy, education, and community development. They also support the Government's broader agenda of increasing national tree cover, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and building climate-resilient institutions.

The event was also attended by KFS Board Chairperson Mr. Titus Korir, senior Kenya Forest Service officers, national and county government officials, and members of the local community, underscoring the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in advancing sustainable forest conservation and clean energy initiatives.