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]

TRAINING FOR KFS TACTICAL OPERATION TEAMS AND INSPECTORATE LEADERSHIP

Forest Law Enforcement Academy, today commenced its inaugural training of officers at the newly established school in Makutani Forest. A cohort of officers drawn from various operation teams commenced their specialised tactical training at the Academy. The training is aimed to refresh tactical skills which will assist them during forest security operations.
The Inspectorate cadre of officers will also commence training from 5th June, 2026. This critical training will also equip the officers with the skills and competences necessary in execution of their mandate at the County and station level. Both courses will run concurrently for a period of eight weeks.
During the opening ceremony, the Deputy Commandant Wilson Leboo, representing the Chief Conservator of Forests, commended the trainees for working tirelessly in their respective stations to safeguard forests. Other officers present included the Mukutani Sub County DCC, Commanding officer FOLEA ans Assistant Commandant Apollinary Mwandigha, RFC Mau Assistant Commandant David Mutoro, CFC Kericho Mr James Kwambai Instructors and CFA members from the Mukutani Community.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

CCF Hosts JICA Delegation to Strengthen Forestry Partnership

@CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today hosted a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (@jica_direct) led by Mr. Masaru Kurimoto at the Kenya Forest Service Headquarters in Karura, Nairobi, to discuss areas of mutual interest and strengthen collaboration in forestry development and climate resilience.

The meeting focused on the development of a proposed Technical Development Project aimed at promoting tree growing, agroforestry, seedling production, and capacity building for technical officers to enhance climate resilience among local communities.

The two teams emphasized the importance of partnerships in advancing sustainable forest management, landscape restoration, and climate action.

Speeaking at the meeting the CCF welcomed the partnership noting that it presents an opportunity to strengthen technical capacity, improve seedling production, and support communities through sustainable agroforestry initiatives .

On his part Mr. Kurimoto said that JICA remains committed to supporting Kenya's forestry sector through initiatives that promote climate resilience, sustainable development, and community empowerment.

The discussions reaffirmed the strong collaboration between KFS and JICA in supporting Kenya's environmental conservation and tree-growing agenda.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

CCF Accompanies PS Forestry on Meru Conservation Tour

The Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today accompanied the Principal Secretary for Forestry Mr. Mugambi Gitonga on a working tour of Meru to assess conservation initiatives and strengthen partnerships aimed at achieving Kenya’s 10 per cent tree cover target by 2032.

The visit highlighted the critical role of collaboration between the national and county governments in sustainable forest management, environmental conservation, and landscape restoration, in line with the shared forestry functions under Kenya’s devolved system of governance.

Speaking during the engagements, the Principal Secretary commended ongoing tree-growing efforts and welcomed the recent assent of the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, noting that it strengthens forest governance, restoration, and stakeholder participation.

The PS and the CCF later met the Governor of Meru County to discuss enhanced cooperation in implementing tree-growing and conservation programmes. The visit reaffirmed the commitment of both levels of government to work together towards achieving Kenya’s environmental and tree cover goals.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Kenya Forest Service today joined the Principal Secretary @Forestry__Kenya, Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, CBS, during the Meru County Madaraka Day celebrations held at Gankondi Primary School.

Held under the national theme, “Education, Skills and the Future” the celebrations highlighted the importance of human capital development in driving Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.

Speaking during the event, the PS emphasized the forestry sector’s critical role in ecosystem restoration, climate change mitigation and the realization of the Government’s ambitious target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. He called on citizens to embrace tree growing as a shared national responsibility in building climate resilience, protecting water catchments and enhancing livelihoods.

The Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) for Imenti South Sub-County, Madam Mary Mwangi, led residents in the celebrations, which included a tree-planting exercise that promoted community participation in environmental conservation. The County Forest Conservator (CFC) for Meru County, Mr. Wellington Ndaka, also participated in the event, which brought together government officials, local leaders, teachers, learners and members of the public.

As part of the occasion, the Principal Secretary distributed 3,000 avocado seedlings to residents to support environmental conservation while enhancing household incomes and strengthening food security. The initiative highlighted the link between tree growing, economic empowerment and sustainable development.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Kenya Mark Historic Madaraka Day Celebrations in Wajir

@CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today joined H.E. President @WilliamsRuto, the Deputy President H.E. @_KithureKindiki, fellow Service Commanders, national leaders, and the people of Wajir County in celebrating the #63rdMadarakaDay, marking a historic milestone as the first national Madaraka Day celebration to be held in Northern Kenya.

In his address, H.E the President underscored the significance of hosting the celebrations in Wajir, noting that it reflects the Government’s commitment to promoting equity, inclusion, and development in regions that have historically faced marginalisation.

As the country accelerates implementation of the 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme, Kenya Forest Service continues to champion landscape restoration and climate action across the country. The Service is actively supporting the establishment of tree nurseries, restoration of degraded lands, promotion of agroforestry, and growing of drought-resilient indigenous tree species across Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

Notably, 5 billion trees of the national target are expected to be grown in ASAL counties, highlighting the critical role of Northern Kenya and other dryland regions in achieving Kenya’s environmental conservation and climate resilience goals.

The Chief Conservator was accompanied by the Kenya Forest Service Commandant, Mr. Mohammed A. Mohammed, and other senior officers of the Service.

#MadarakaDay2026
#15BillionTreesBy2032
#TreesForBetterLives

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

#HappyMadarakaDay

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS participates in the Run for Rain Marathon in Kitui.

The inaugural Run for Rain Marathon was held today at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County, bringing together participants from across the country to raise awareness on the urgent need to support sustainable water solutions in Kitui’s dryland areas.

The marathon was graced by the Chief Guest, Harriet Chiggai, advisor to the president on women rights, alongside Kitui County Commissioner Mr. Erastus Mbuvi, Dr. Isaac Kalua of Green Africa Group, and Ms. Phoebe Mutemi, CECM for Sports, Kitui County.

As part of the event, the Kenya Forest Service led a ceremonial tree-planting exercise led by Mr. Silvester Chisika, Senior Conservator from the office of National Tree Growing and Restoration Programme, KFS HQ, together with Kitui County Forest Conservator Mr. Christopher Kapula.

KFS is proud to support such initiatives that raise awareness on the critical link between tree growing, water security, and climate resilience. The initiative complements the Government’s 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme by encouraging collective action to restore landscapes, protect water catchments, and secure a greener future for Kenya.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

CCF Tours Wajir Ahead of Historic Madaraka Day Celebrations

@CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today toured Kenya Forest Service offices in Wajir County ahead of this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations, which will be hosted in the region for the first time in the country’s history.

Accompanied by senior KFS officers, including Commandant Mohammed A. Mohammed, the CCF met officers selected for the match-pass parade and encouraged them to represent the Service with professionalism and distinction during the national celebrations.

Mr. Lemarkoko also received a briefing from County Forest Conservator Mr. Samuel Ebeiwa on ongoing the progress in tree-growing programmes, seedling production efforts, and other conservation and landscape restoration activities being undertaken by the Service to enhance forest and tree cover in the arid and semi-arid region.

The visit forms part of ongoing engagements by the Kenya Forest Service leadership aimed at monitoring field operations, supporting staff, and strengthening the Service’s contribution to national development and environmental conservation.

[Dr Deborah Mlongo Barasa, E.G.H. @DeboraBarasa]

Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards a greener, safer, and more equitable Kenya. I am proud to stand alongside H.E. President of Kenya as we take decisive steps to secure our nation’s future.
I joined H.E. the President William Ruto at State House Nairobi for the assent to three critical Bills that will strengthen disaster response, protect our forests, and deliver equitable development to all parts of the country. Under the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the government has significantly bolstered conservation efforts by strengthening the legal and institutional framework governing the forestry sector. The new law emphasizes sustainable forest management, climate-responsive forestry, and enhanced research and innovation. It reinforces the role of the Kenya Forest Service while re-establishing the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) as the lead institution in forestry research, ensuring improved coordination, policy implementation, and scientific advancement.
The Bill introduces key provisions such as the establishment of structured governance through a Board, appointment of a qualified Director-General, and enhanced financial management systems to ensure accountability and efficiency. It promotes sustainable management of all forests, including dryland ecosystems, through integrated approaches such as agroforestry and value addition of forest products. Additionally, it creates a framework for Payment for Ecosystem Services, enabling communities and stakeholders to benefit from conservation efforts. The law also strengthens penalties for forest-related offences, introduces buffer zones to protect ecosystems, and enhances regulations on forest product trade.
Overall, this amendment represents a bold, forward looking approach to forest conservation advancing climate resilience, safeguarding biodiversity, and unlocking sustainable economic opportunities for present and future generations.

@WilliamsRuto
@_KithureKindiki
@MusaliaMudavadi
@HonWetangula
@Environment_Ke
@Forestry__Kenya
@EnviClimateC_Ke
@KEFRIHQ

[Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry @Environment_Ke]

H.E. President @WilliamsRuto has assented to the Forest Conservation & Management (Amendment)Bill, 2025 into law. The new Act marks a major legislative milestone aimed at modernizing forest governance, expanding community-led conservation & anchoring Kenya’s climate goals.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Participates in KEFRI Stakeholder Exhibition.

The Kenya Forest Service today participated in a stakeholder exhibition hosted by the Kenya Forest Research Institute at the Kenya Forest Service Headquarters, bringing together institutions and enterprises showcasing innovations that support reforestation, agroforestry, and environmental conservation.

During the exhibition, the Kenya Forest Service showcased a variety of fruit and commercial tree seedlings, including guava, avocado, mango, and passion fruit, alongside giant and solid bamboo species promoted for conservation and sustainable timber production. The Service noted that the seedlings are being distributed to communities and farmers in support of the national target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Other stakeholders also exhibited a wide range of innovations and value-added products supporting conservation and sustainable livelihoods. Bella Farm showcased forest honey, chamomile tea, and beeswax lip balm derived from sustainable farming and apiculture, while PRIFE displayed wellness and health technology products, including massage machines, and highlighted ongoing sandalwood research exploring its therapeutic and commercial potential.

The Kenya Forestry College presented an educational and technical exhibition focusing on plant health management. Laboratory technologist Peninah Kadenja demonstrated plant disease diagnosis and management, including guidance on the safe use of Ridomil fungicide in controlling seedling and root diseases. The exhibition reinforced the importance of collaboration among research institutions, government agencies, academia, and private sector players in advancing environmental restoration and sustainable livelihoods.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Launch of the Kapenguria Participatory Forest Management Plan and Signing of Forest Management Agreement

The Principal Senior Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests, Dr. Clement Ngoriareng, today launched the Kapenguria Participatory Forest Management Plan (2026–2031) and presided over the signing of a Forest Management Agreement (FMA) between the Kenya Forest Service and the Kapenguria Community Forest Association (KACOFA) during a colourful ceremony held at AIC Kapchila in Kapenguria Forest Station, West Pokot County.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Ngoriareng thanked community members and stakeholders for their patience, commitment, and cooperation throughout the development of the management plan. He noted that although the process had taken time, it was worthwhile as it provides a clear framework for sustainable forest management and equitable sharing of forest benefits.

He emphasized that communities living adjacent to forests play a critical role in conservation and should participate in forest management in a structured and responsible manner that safeguards forest resources for present and future generations. He encouraged members of KACOFA and other stakeholders to continue working closely with the Kenya Forest Service to restore degraded forest areas, increase tree planting efforts, and protect existing forest cover.

The Participatory Forest Management Plan derives its mandate from the Forest Conservation and Management Act and seeks to promote sustainable forest conservation, strengthen community participation, enhance stakeholder collaboration, support income-generating activities, promote ecotourism, and empower local communities on the importance of forests and environmental conservation.

Kapenguria Forest Station forms part of the western block of the Cherangany Hills Ecosystem and comprises two forest blocks: Kapkanyar and Chewoyet, both predominantly natural forests. The management plan will provide guidelines for addressing conservation challenges, protecting forest boundaries, enhancing biodiversity conservation, promoting ecotourism activities such as bird watching, and safeguarding cultural values associated with the forest.

Dr. Ngoriareng further called on all stakeholders to intensify efforts towards achieving the national tree-growing target and ensuring the long-term sustainability of forest resources.

Also present during the event were the West Pokot County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Environment, Regional Forest Conservator David Rono, County Forest Conservator Benjamin Kore, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

#EidMubarak
#TreesForBetterLives
#JazaMiti

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

CCF Assesses Seedling Production Capacity within Nairobi Conservancy

The success of Kenya’s ambitious 15 billion tree growing agenda hinges on the production of adequate, high-quality tree seedlings to support landscape restoration, forest rehabilitation and climate resilience efforts across the country.

To strengthen seedling production capacity, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) continues to invest in the development and expansion of tree nursery infrastructure, positioning nurseries as critical enablers in achieving national restoration targets and enhancing ecosystem recovery.

In line with these efforts, @CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today conducted a working tour within Nairobi Conservancy to assess ongoing seedling production activities and inspect investments aimed at boosting nursery capacity.

The CCF visited the Ngong’ Mega Tree Nursery, where he appreciated the role played by the National Youth Service (NYS) in supporting labour and nursery operations that are contributing to increased seedling production. He also inspected the ongoing construction and expansion of the Mega Tree Nursery at Ngong’ Road Forest Station, an initiative expected to significantly enhance seedling output to support the country’s tree growing ambitions.

Additionally, Mr. Lemarkoko toured the KeNHA Tree Nursery, established through a partnership between the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), underscoring the growing importance of cross-sector collaborations in advancing environmental conservation, landscape restoration and sustainable ecosystem management.

The visit reaffirmed KFS’s commitment to strengthening tree nursery infrastructure as a strategic investment towards accelerating restoration efforts and delivering on Kenya’s national target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Community-Led Restoration Gains Momentum Under the Mt. Elgon GEF-7 project

The Mt. Elgon GEF-7 project team has conducted a follow-up exercise in Bungoma County to assess the progress made by Community Forest Associations after receiving restoration funds under the project. The monitoring visit covered Kaberwa Forest Station, Cheptais and Kaboywo, where the team evaluated seedling production, inspected nursery sites and assessed ongoing restoration activities being implemented by local communities.

Community members expressed optimism about the impact of the project, noting that the restoration funds have significantly improved operations within the nurseries.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Kipkut, Cheptais CFA Chairman, stated that the funds received helped address key challenges such as water shortages that had previously affected seedling production. He noted that the community is now more united in restoration efforts and committed to rehabilitating degraded forest areas.

Areas rehabilitated during the Mt. Elgon Day were inspected to assess the survival rate of planted trees. Coordinates of the restored sites were also taken for monitoring and documentation purposes.

[APS Kenya @APSKenya]

In a show of commitment to environmental conservation,the Commandant NPC Embakasi ‘A’ Campus, Mr. Isaac Alimaa, MBS,OGW (SAIG), alongside Ruth Ndinda, AIG, Deputy Commandant SGB & VIP Protection Unit, Senior officers & Police recruits, took part in a tree planting exercise at the

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

LOGGING INCIDENT IN KINYO
Tenges Forest station staff have visited a site in Kinyo forest beat, Baringo County, that was depicted online with two felled trees. The team confirmed there was an attempt by local community members to fell the trees for firewood and to make bee hives. No charcoal burning or charcoal selling activities were found in the area as alleged. The Forest station manager has called a meeting to sensitize the area residents on the importance of conserving and protecting forest resources.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any incidents of illegal logging.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

50,000 indigenous tree seedlings were planted today across 50 hectares in Logoman Forest, Nakuru County, as part of ongoing efforts to restore degraded forest areas. The initiative was supported by Wezesha CBO in partnership with KFS.

Speaking during the exercise, Mau Conservancy Regional Forest Conservator Mr. Dennis Kerengo urged communities to embrace agroforestry, establish woodlots, plant fruit trees, and adopt sustainable practices to improve livelihoods while reducing pressure on forests.

The activity brought together government officials, community members, CFA representatives, and local schools in advancing forest restoration efforts.

#15BillionTreesBy2032
#TreesForBetterLives
#JazaMiti

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Band once again showcased exceptional musical prowess during the grand opening ceremony of the 2026 Mt. Kenya Branch ASK Show in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.

Led by Chief Inspector Charles Bore and assisted by Inspector Olegilisho Ezra, Deputy Director of Music, the KFS Band alongside GSU and Kenya Prisons Service Band delivered electrifying performances, precision marching, and synchronized drills that captivated thousands of showgoers.

The colorful event was graced by Dr. Jonathan Mweke, PS Ministry of Agriculture, among other senior government officials, as the bands emerged among the biggest highlights of the ceremony.

The joint performances not only enhanced the KFS Band’s professional exposure and experience through collaboration with other disciplined forces bands, but also promoted the positive image of the Kenya Forest Service while creating awareness on firest conservation.