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]

@CCF_Kenya , Alex Lemarkoko, received Sammy Kiplagat of RCL Africa Limited at the Kenya Forest Service headquarters, where he presented a cheque worth KSh 1,500,000 in support of @Kaptagat_icp. The contribution underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing ecosystem restoration and sustainable forest conservation.

RCL Africa Limited reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to support the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme. The partnership reflects a shared dedication to restoring degraded landscapes and building healthier, more resilient ecosystems for present and future generations.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Stakeholders Endorse Kithoka Airstrip Development

Public participation remains a cornerstone of sustainable development, ensuring that communities and stakeholders shape projects that affect their environment and livelihoods. In line with the Constitution of Kenya and its commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive decision-making, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today convened a Public Participation Forum on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Study for the proposed Kithoka Airstrip and ancillary infrastructure at Kithoka Beat, Meru Forest Station.

The forum brought together national and county government representatives, conservation agencies, Community Forest Associations (CFAs), development partners, civil society, faith-based organizations, the Council of Elders, and local leaders to review the project's environmental, social, and economic implications.

Delivering the @CCF_Kenya, message, the Senior Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests – Forest Conservation and Management (SDCCF–FCM), Dr. Clement Ng'oriareng', said the proposed airstrip is expected to strengthen forest conservation by enhancing aerial surveillance, improving emergency response to forest fires and other emergencies, and supporting efficient forest management. He emphasized that views received during the forum, alongside submissions through the online platform, will inform the final decision on the project.

Technical experts presented the ESIA findings, proposed mitigation measures, and site selection criteria, noting that the location was identified following detailed assessments to avoid environmentally sensitive areas, including elephant migration corridors.

Stakeholders welcomed the consultative approach and expressed broad support for the proposal, acknowledging its potential to enhance forest protection, disaster response, and sustainable socio-economic development while safeguarding environmental integrity through the recommended mitigation measures. The forum reaffirmed KFS's commitment to participatory governance, environmental stewardship, and sustainable forest management.

[Dr Chris Kiptoo, CBS @DrChrisKiptoo]

Karibu Rais @WilliamsRuto.

[Dr Chris Kiptoo, CBS @DrChrisKiptoo]

Final preparations for the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP) are well on course as we finalize arrangements to welcome H.E. the President Dr. William Ruto at Kaptarkok Primary School, Kaptarakwa Ward, for this landmark conservation event.

Today, I hosted Gitonga Mugambi (PS Forestry), Kello Harsama (PS Petroleum), Hon. Dr. Gideon Kimaiyo (MP Keiyo South) and Alex Lemarkoko (Chief Conservator of Forests) as we reviewed the final preparations and coordinated the remaining activities ahead of the celebrations.

We also appreciated the generous support from Stanbic Bank Kenya through Abraham Ongenge (Ag. CEO), and Sidian Bank through its CEO, John Okulo. The support will be channelled through the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to advance conservation activities across the Kaptagat Forest ecosystem.

@Kaptagat_icp @KeForestService @Forestry__Kenya @StanbicKE @SidianBank

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Guest of Honour Hon. Musa Sirma, EGH, Member of Parliament for Eldama Ravine and Chairperson of the National Assembly Select Committee on the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), today joined Jomvu Member of Parliament Hon. Badi Twalib, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Community Forest Associations (CFAs), and members of the indigenous Duruma and Rabai communities in a mangrove restoration exercise in Miritini. The event was also attended by Hon. Beatrice Elachi, Hon. Mohamed Soud Machele, Hon. Kassim Tandaza—Vice Chairperson of the NG-CDF Committee—and other members of the Parliamentary Committee undertaking oversight and monitoring of NG-CDF projects within Jomvu Constituency. The Committee is mandated to oversee the implementation of the NG-CDF Act and monitor development projects financed through the Fund across the country.

The restoration exercise brought together KFS officers, Community Forest Association members drawn from the Duruma and Rabai communities, and other stakeholders in a collective effort to restore the ecologically significant mangrove ecosystem in Miritini. The initiative reaffirmed KFS' commitment to working closely with local communities to conserve and restore coastal forests while enhancing biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking during the exercise, leaders underscored the importance of integrating environmental conservation into community development, noting that healthy mangrove ecosystems provide critical ecological services, strengthen resilience to climate change, and support livelihoods for coastal communities. The participation of the NG-CDF Committee alongside local leadership demonstrated the value of partnerships between conservation agencies, Parliament, and local communities in promoting sustainable development.

The active participation of CFA members from the Duruma and Rabai communities highlighted the indispensable role local communities continue to play in the restoration and sustainable management of Kenya's mangrove forests. Through such collaborative initiatives, KFS continues to advance its mission of conserving, protecting, and sustainably managing the country's forest resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Preparations Complete Ahead of ESIA Public Participation Forum for Proposed Kithoka Airstrip Project

Preparations for the Public Participation Forum on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Study for the proposed airstrip and ancillary infrastructure at Kithoka Beat, Meru Forest Station, are complete ahead of the main event scheduled for tomorrow.

The planning committee, led by the Meru County Forest Conservator, Mr. Wellington Ndaka, held consultations with key stakeholders, including the Meru County Commissioner, Mr. George O. Omolo, representatives of the Council of Elders, local leaders, and the coordinator/ head of Community Forest Associations, Madam Josyline Thambu. The discussions focused on fostering collaboration and ensuring the successful implementation of the public participation process.

The committee later visited the proposed project site to assess preparedness and finalize logistical arrangements for the forum. As part of the preparations, the team also conducted a community sensitization exercise at the proposed airstrip site, where residents gathered to learn about the proposed project and the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process. Community members were informed about the purpose of the proposed airstrip, its anticipated socio-economic and environmental impacts, and the importance of participating in the public consultation.

The sensitization exercise encouraged members of the public to actively attend the forum and share their views, concerns, and recommendations, which will contribute to the environmental assessment and guide decision-making on the proposed project.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Rest In Peace 🕊

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

SENIOR MANAGEMENT VISIT FOLEA MUKUTANI TRAINING CAMP

The Forest Law Enforcement Academy (FoLEA) Mukutani, today played host to Kenya Forest Service senior management team, led by SDCCCF-Dr. Clement Ngoriareng. He was accompanied by the Commandant Mohammed Adan Mohammed, among other senior management team. The delegation was received by the College Commandant, A. J. Mwandigha.

The team met trainees of the Leadership & Development Course No. 01/2026 at Mukutani Hall, comprising 113 Inspectorate Officers and 49 Chief Inspectors. During the engagement, the senior leadership sensitized the officers on their vital duties and responsibilities, emphasizing visionary leadership, ethical conduct, accountability, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to the Kenya Forest Service mandate.

The visit underscored the KFS leadership's steadfast commitment to nurturing, mentoring, and equipping future forest commanders with the knowledge, practical skills, and professional values required to effectively protect, manage, and conserve Kenya's forest resources. The trainees were challenged to remain disciplined, embrace servant leadership, uphold the rule of law, and discharge their duties with integrity, courage, and patriotism in safeguarding the nation's natural heritage.

The session concluded with words of encouragement from the senior management, who expressed confidence that the officers undergoing training will become transformational leaders capable of advancing sustainable forest conservation and strengthening the mission of the Kenya Forest Service for the benefit of present and future generations.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

@CCF_Kenya Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today briefed Principal Secretary for Forestry @GMugambi_CBS on preparations for the 10th edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), set for July 11 in one of Kenya's key water catchment.

The CCF was joined at the briefing by Secretary for Forest Development George Tarus and Kenya Forestry Research Institute (@KEFRIHQ) CEO Dr. Jane Njuguna. The three reviewed inter-agency coordination, stakeholder engagement and restoration activities ahead of the milestone event, now in its tenth year of advancing forest management, ecosystem restoration and climate resilience through multi-agency partnerships.

PS Mugambi reaffirmed the government's commitment to partnerships supporting sustainable management of Kenya's forest resources, noting that KICP has been central to restoring degraded landscapes, conserving biodiversity, protecting water catchments and drawing communities into environmental stewardship, objectives he tied to the government's wider climate action agenda.

With preparations in their final phase, the Kenya Forest Service is working with partner institutions to deliver the event, and will supply high quality tree seedlings and technical expertise for restoration programme.

The Saturday's edition will mark ten years of the programme's restoration and conservation record and is expected to renew commitments toward the national target of planting #15BillionTreesBy2032.

#TreesForBetterLives
#KaptagatICPAt10
#KICP
#15BWajibuWaKilaMkenya

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

PUBLIC NOTICE!!!

The Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the proposed airstrip at Meru Forest station, Kithoka beat, will take place on Wednesday 8th July, 2026 at Meru ASK Showground pavilion at 8.30am

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Celebrating Kaptagat's Decade of Conservation Success

The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP) has, over the past decade, emerged as a national model for landscape restoration, demonstrating how strong partnerships and a community-led approach can restore degraded forests, improve livelihoods, and safeguard the Kaptagat Forest ecosystem while contributing to Kenya's 30 percent tree cover target by 2032.

Today marked the start of a week-long celebration of the Programme's 10th Edition, with the @CCF_Kenya , Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, joining Principal Secretaries @DrChrisKiptoo (National Treasury) and @GMugambi_CBS (Forestry), conservation partners and the local community in a tree-growing exercise before flagging off the 4th Kaptagat Cycling Challenge at Kaptagat Farm Resort.

The 80-kilometre race brought together cyclists from across Kenya and neighbouring countries, demonstrating the role of sport in advancing conservation. Dr. Chris Kiptoo noted that "Kaptagat continues to demonstrate that conservation and sustainable development go hand in hand. Through initiatives such as the Cycling Challenge and community-led tree growing, we are investing in healthy ecosystems, resilient communities and a greener future. Every tree planted and every kilometre cycled contributes to safeguarding this critical forest landscape for future generations." Franklin Kibet and Kendra Masiga emerged as the overall winners in the men's and women's categories, respectively.

Speaking during the event, Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko said the Programme's success reflects the power of partnerships, adding that "The success of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme over the last ten years demonstrates that lasting forest restoration is achieved through strong partnerships and active community participation. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to restoring degraded landscapes, protecting our water towers, and accelerating Kenya's journey towards Kenya's 30 percent tree cover target."

Beyond the competition, the Cycling Challenge supports forest restoration through the 15 Billion Trees Campaign, reinforcing KICP's decade-long legacy of uniting communities, conservation and sustainable development to secure a resilient future for people and nature.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Mau Marathon Champions Forest Conservation

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.

This spirit was evident today in Nakuru County, where the @CCF_Kenya (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, joined Principal Secretaries @GMugambi_CBS (Forestry), @Eng_F_Ngeno (Environment and Climate Change), @EphantusKim (Irrigation), who was the Chief Guest, Kuresoi North MP Alfred Mutai, development partners, conservation stakeholders, and local residents during the 2026 Mau Conservation Marathon.

Held under the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP), the marathon showcased the importance of community participation in protecting the Mau Forest Complex, one of Kenya's most critical water towers and a key pillar of the country's biodiversity and climate resilience.

Speaking during the event, Mr. Lemarkoko said every kilometre covered symbolized a shared commitment to restoring and safeguarding the Mau Forest Complex.

"The Mau Forest Complex is the lifeblood of millions of Kenyans. Every step taken today is a step towards protecting our water towers, restoring degraded landscapes, and securing a sustainable future for generations to come," said the CCF.

The Principal Secretaries reaffirmed the Government's commitment to restoring degraded landscapes and achieving 30 percent national tree cover by 2032, emphasizing that conserving the Mau is vital for water security, biodiversity, and sustainable livelihoods.

The event also saw the Kenya Forest Service Athletics Team finish second overall in the 5 km Corporate Category, with Titus Kipkemboi and Paul Kariu securing podium finishes.

As the marathon came to a close, the message was clear: protecting the Mau Forest Complex is a shared responsibility, and every stride brings Kenya closer to a greener and more resilient future.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Ewaso Ng'iro Programme Launched to Strengthen Water Security and Climate Resilience

The Kenya Forest Service Commandant, Mr. Mohammed A. Mohammed, today represented the Chief Conservator of Forests at the launch of the Ewaso Ng'iro Water and Climate Resilience Programme in Nanyuki, Laikipia County. The programme, presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Mugaa, brings together stakeholders to promote sustainable water resource management, restore degraded ecosystems, and strengthen the resilience and livelihoods of communities within the Ewaso Ng'iro Basin.

While addressing the forum, the Cabinet Secretary described the initiative as critical to the livelihoods of communities across the region, emphasizing the need to restore water catchment areas and surrounding ecosystems through the National 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme. He noted that the project will facilitate the planting of one million trees, aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and Kenya Vision 2030, and underscored the importance of strong stakeholder collaboration to ensure its success.

Speaking on behalf of the @CCF_Kenya, Commandant Mohammed reaffirmed the Kenya Forest Service's commitment to supporting the programme, noting that the Ewaso Ng'iro River is a critical ecosystem whose restoration is essential for environmental sustainability and water security. He assured stakeholders that the Service will provide the necessary technical support and work closely with partners to ensure the successful implementation of the programme, whose overall goal is to ensure adequate water for all while enhancing climate resilience across the basin.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Water Sector Trust Fund, Mr. Willis Ombai, observed that climate change has significantly contributed to the degradation of water resources and increased weather extremes. He said the programme will work closely with the Kenya Forest Service to rehabilitate 48,000 hectares of degraded landscapes across the five counties through tree-growing initiatives, thereby improving biodiversity, conserving water resources, and strengthening the socio-economic resilience of local communities.

Among those in attendance were the PS Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Dr. Julius Korir, Governors of the respective counties within the basin, representatives from the Danish Embassy, and other key stakeholders. Accompanying the Commandant were the Deputy Commandant, Mr. Wilson Leboo, the Regional Forest Conservator for Central Highlands, Ms. Monica Ndungu, and the County Forest Conservators from the five beneficiary counties.

The Commandant also took the opportunity to visit Zawadi Kakuche, a Kenya Forest Service Officer admitted in Nanyuki Cottage hospital who was wounded in the line of duty by armed bandits during the on-going multi-agency operation in Mukogodo Forest, the forest ranger is responding well to treatment.

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

PROTECT OUR FOREST,PROTECT OUR FUTURE.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Be part of the action today! Join @CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, at the Mau Conservation Marathon and run for the restoration and protection of our forests.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

Happening Now: MAU CONSERVATION MARATHON
https://t.co/yLCXIjeIVS

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

KFS Explores AI-Powered Forest Fire Detection and Response in Strategic Talks with STEP

Forest fires remain one of the most significant threats to Kenya's forest ecosystems, destroying biodiversity, degrading critical water towers, increasing carbon emissions, and reversing years of conservation gains. As wildfire risks continue to grow due to climate change and human activities, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative solution for early detection, real-time monitoring, predictive risk analysis, and rapid emergency response.

To advance this agenda, @CCF_Kenya , Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today hosted a delegation from STEP Innovations Africa led Sanjay Dash, at the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Headquarters for high-level discussions on integrating AI-powered technologies into forest fire prevention, detection, management, and mitigation.

The meeting explored opportunities to deploy intelligent monitoring systems capable of providing early fire alerts, real-time surveillance, predictive analytics, and enhanced incident management to strengthen KFS's capacity to protect Kenya's forests. The two teams also discussed leveraging digital platforms and data-driven technologies to improve situational awareness, operational coordination, and decision-making during wildfire emergencies.

The engagement reflects the Kenya Forest Service's commitment to embracing innovation and emerging technologies to enhance forest protection, strengthen climate resilience, and build smarter, more responsive systems for safeguarding the country's forest resources. By pursuing strategic partnerships that accelerate digital transformation, KFS continues to position itself at the forefront of technology-driven sustainable forest management in Kenya.

[felix koskei @koske_felix]

Preparations are now in the final stretch for the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), whose annual conservation activities will commence on 4 July and culminate on 11 July 2026.

During today's follow-up consultative meeting, we reviewed the progress made. We received implementation updates from the respective ministries, departments and agencies, and resolved the outstanding issues necessary to ensure the successful delivery of the programme and its associated development initiatives.

Present were Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, Principal Secretaries, legislators, and the leadership of participating government agencies and State corporations.

[Kenya Forest Service @KeForestService]

@CCF_Kenya Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today joined the Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, @koske_felix , Cabinet Secretary for @Environment_Ke, @DeboraBarasa , Principal Secretaries @GMugambi_CBS, @Eng_F_Ngeno and Dr. Belio Kipsang, and H.E. Governor @Araap_Sang of Nandi County for a tree planting exercise at Chepkiep/Kiptangus Forest, Mosop.

The event marked a major milestone in the implementation of the Nandi Integrated Climate Landscape Improvement Project (@MauForest_iclip), a five-year initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Kenya Forest Service to rehabilitate 9,605 hectares of degraded forest land and establish 10 million tree seedlings across the Nandi Forest Ecosystem.

Held under the theme "Community Action for Ecosystem Restoration and Sustainable Livelihoods," the exercise brought together government agencies, local communities, development partners, and conservation stakeholders in line with whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach towards forest restorationand sustainable management.

The restoration of the Nandi Forest Ecosystem is not just about trees, it is about safeguarding the Yala, Nzoia, and Nyando river catchments, reversing soil erosion, rebuilding wildlife habitats, and fortifying Kenya's frontline defences against the accelerating impacts of climate change.

KFS remains steadfast in its mission to lead, coordinate, and deliver Kenya's landscape restoration agenda, one seedling, one community, one forest block at a time, as the nation marches purposefully toward its national target.

#15BillionTreesBy2032.
#TreesForBetterLives
#JazaMiti