Karura Forest Hosts the 3rd Edition of Safaricom CEO Run. Karura Forest today played host to the 3rd edition of the Safaricom CEO Run, bringing together more than 400 participants in a remarkable display of commitment to environmental conservation and community empowerment. Held at the K-FEET Grounds within Karura Forest, the event attracted corporate leaders, conservation enthusiasts and members of the public who turned out to support a noble cause aimed at conserving Lewa Conservancy and enhancing community development initiatives. The event featured a 15-kilometre run, officially flagged off by Mr. Munene Edward, the Overall In-Charge of the Karura Forest Ecotourism Facility. Participants traversed the scenic trails of Karura Forest, enjoying the unique blend of nature, recreation and conservation that has made the urban forest one of Nairobi’s most treasured green spaces. The successful hosting of the Safaricom CEO Run further reinforces Karura Forest’s position as a premier ecotourism destination and a hub for recreation and conservation engagement. Karura Forest is proud to provide a platform for such impactful initiatives that align with our conservation goals. As a leading institution in forest conservation and management, Kenya Forest Service remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, responsible recreation and citizen participation in conservation efforts.

Stakeholders Engage in Public Participation Meeting for GZDSP III Mt. Kenya and Aberdare Ecosystems The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today hosted a Public Participation Meeting for the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the Green Zones Development Support Project Phase III (GZDSP III) targeting the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare Ecosystems. The engagement, held at White Rhino Hotel, Nyeri, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the project’s environmental and social considerations while providing a platform for feedback, recommendations, and shared commitments towards sustainable forest restoration. The meeting was officially opened by Ms. Lucy Kiboi, Senior Director Chief Conservator of Forests – Corporate Services, Kenya Forest Service, who emphasized the importance of stakeholder participation in ensuring transparency, ownership, and sustainability of the project. She highlighted that Phase III will support increased forest restoration efforts through the planting of 300 million seedlings, contributing to Kenya’s 15 billion tree-growing agenda. Ms. Kiboi noted the achievements realized through the Green Zones Development Support Project since its inception in 2006, including forest rehabilitation, improved livelihoods, institutional strengthening, and support for sustainable management of forest resources. The Project Manager, Mr. Jerome Mwanzia, provided an overview of the Green Zones Development Support Project, highlighting its progress through different phases. He noted that Phase I (2006–2014) laid the foundation for the initiative, while Phase II (2019–2026) focused on enhancing forest conservation and improving community livelihoods. The upcoming Phase III (2027–2033/2034) will build on these achievements through expanded afforestation and reforestation programmes, climate change mitigation, and green economic opportunities. During the closing session, Madam Charity Muthoni, President – Forestry Society of Kenya, appreciated the successful engagement and commended the efforts of the Green Zones Development Support Project team. She praised Mr. Jerome Mwanzia, the Project Manager, for his leadership and commitment towards advancing the objectives of the initiative and promoting sustainable forest conservation. The KEFRI ESIA Team, led by Mr. Joseph Machua and Mr. Jason Kariuki, guided stakeholders through the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment process in line with EMCA 1999 (Cap 387) and relevant regulations. Participants engaged in discussions on key conservation issues including forest encroachment, research approaches, and sustainable tree species management. The meeting brought together representatives from NEMA, Community Forest Associations (CFAs), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), County Governments, compliance departments, and other conservation partners committed to the restoration and sustainable management of the Mt. Kenya and Aberdare Ecosystems. The public participation forum reaffirmed KFS’s commitment to inclusive stakeholder engagement, collaboration, and sustainable approaches in advancing forest restoration, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods through the Green Zones Development Support Project Phase III. #TreesForBetterLives

Today, I signed a Cooperation Agreement between the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry and the Japan International Cooperation Agency ( JICA), together with the Global Environment Director, Mr. Kurimoto Masaru. This agreement marks an important step in strengthening collaboration on addressing environmental challenges, enhancing climate resilience and building capacity in tree improvement. Through this partnership, we will continue to deepen our longstanding cooperation with JICA in advancing Kenya’s climate agenda. The Agency has been a key partner in supporting climate resilience efforts, including through the Sustainable Forest Management and Climate Change Response Project (SFS-CORECC). For over 40 years, JICA has worked closely with Kenya’s forestry sector, contributing to sustainable forest management, conservation and ecosystem restoration initiatives that continue to make a lasting impact across the country.

The Service places great emphasis in the development of its staff capacity to deliver services to the public and grow their career lines in order to contribute to national development. This is especially important given the critical role of managing the country's forests and spearheading forest restoration programmes including the 15 billion tree growing campaign. It is for this reason that the @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today officially opened the Officers Leadership and Development Course at the Forest Law Enforcement Academy Main Campus in Mukutani Forest, Baringo County. Speaking at the event, the CCF reminded the officers of the long journey that the Service had taken to build its own capacity to train its staff especially in the Security and Protection Directorate. He said that by developing the Mukutani Campus, the Service had gone full circle improving its own capacity not only to train new recruits but also offer career advancing courses to existing staff. "Initially, the Service did not have a training facility but through determination established facilities in Londiani, Gilgil and ultimately this facility at Mukutani," said the CCF. He urged the officers most of whom were recently promoted to the rank of Inspector and Chief Inspector to take the training seriously as it is designed to improve their command capabilities as well as effective management of resources and equipment in the line of duty. The CCF thanked His Excellency the President for turning around the public attitude towards forest conservation through the historic employment of 2,700 additional personnel to safeguard forest resources. On his part, the Commandant Mr. Mohammed A. Mohammed urged the officers to remain determined noting that they will go down in history as the first cohort to be trained at the new campus. The training is being hosted by the FoLEA Commanding Officer Mr. Appolinary Mwandigha.

CCF Tours Kaptagat Ahead of KICP @CCF_Kenya (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today toured the Kaptagat Forest Ecosystem in Elgeyo Marakwet County to assess progress on key conservation and development initiatives ahead of the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP). A key highlight of the visit was the inspection of the ongoing 271-kilometre forest perimeter fence, a critical intervention aimed at strengthening forest protection, curbing encroachment, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and supporting ecosystem restoration. The project is expected to enhance biodiversity conservation, promote natural regeneration, and safeguard vital ecosystem services, including water catchment protection, carbon sequestration, and soil conservation. In preparation for KICP, which is expected to be presided over by H.E President Dr. William Ruto, the CCF and stakeholders visited Kiptulos Primary School, where a fruit tree planting exercise will be undertaken, and Chepsamo Primary School, the venue for the upcoming Marathon for Conservation. The delegation also toured Mokwo Girls Secondary School, where the Kenya Forest Service, through the Green Zones Development Support Programme, supported the construction of a biogas facility. They further witnessed the groundbreaking of a new biomass energy project supported by the Kyoto initiative. The tour concluded at Kamariny Stadium, where the CCF joined Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor H.E. Wisley Rotich to inspect ongoing preparations for the forthcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations. The visit underscored the strong link between forest conservation, clean energy, community development, and sustainable environmental management within the Kaptagat landscape.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲 The rainforest remains a vital refuge for biodiversity and a powerful symbol of environmental conservation. 🗓️ 22 June 2026 📍 Kakamega Forest #WorldRainforestDay #KakamegaForest #ForestConservation #15BillionTreesBy2032 #15BillionTreesWajibuWaKilaMkenya

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 Join us in celebrating the vital role of rainforests in sustaining life and protecting our planet. 📅 22 June 2026 📍 Kakamega Forest, Kakamega County Theme: The Forest Within You Together, let's protect, restore and cherish our forests for future generations. #WorldRainforestDay2026 #TheForestWithinYou #KakamegaForest #JazaMiti #15BWajibuWaKilaMkenya #15BillionTreesBy2032

THOUSANDS OF TREES PLANTED ACROSS KENYA AS COMMUNITIES MARK WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY Thousands of Kenyans joined tree-planting activities across the country to mark World Environment Day and Chiefs' Climate Action Day, reaffirming the nation's commitment to environmental conservation, climate action and landscape restoration. The exercises brought together government agencies, development partners, schools, community organizations and local residents. The activities were largely coordinated through Chiefs' Climate Action Day, an initiative spearheaded by the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) to mobilize communities for tree growing and environmental stewardship. The programme continues to support grassroots participation in Kenya's climate resilience and restoration efforts. Significant tree-planting exercises were recorded in several counties. Makueni established a fruit orchard with 2,500 seedlings, Migori planted over 4,000 trees across multiple sites, while Narok recorded more than 3,200 seedlings at Naikara Comprehensive School. Nairobi County also reported strong participation, with over 9,000 trees planted in Roysambu Sub-County alone. Coastal counties contributed through mangrove restoration activities, with more than 4,000 mangrove seedlings planted in Mombasa, while Kilifi undertook large-scale greening initiatives. In Western and Rift Valley regions, counties including Bungoma, Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, Kericho, Nakuru, Nyandarua and Baringo carried out tree-growing activities focused on restoring ecosystems, protecting water catchments and enhancing biodiversity. Leaders who attended the events emphasized the importance of tree planting in combating climate change and restoring degraded landscapes, urging communities to nurture seedlings to maturity. The nationwide activities highlighted the collective efforts of government institutions, communities and partners towards achieving Kenya's 15 Billion Trees Programme and building a greener, more resilient future. #WorldEnvironmentDay2026 #ChiefsClimateActionDay #15BillionTrees #15BillionTreesBy2032 #15BWajibuWaKilaMkenya #JazaMiti #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalConservation #TreeGrowing #GreenerKenya

The Kaptagat Forest Ecosystem is one of Kenya’s most important water towers, supporting water security, environmental sustainability, agricultural productivity and livelihoods across the North Rift region. Today, we briefed the Head of Public Service, Mr. Felix Koskei on preparations for the 10th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), to be held on 11th July 2026 at Penon Forest Block, Keiyo South, and graced by H.E. the President @WilliamsRuto. As we mark 10 years of conservation, restoration and community empowerment, we are preparing for a landmark celebration that will showcase the transformative impact of KICP in restoring degraded landscapes, strengthening environmental stewardship and improving livelihoods. @Kaptagat_icp @KeForestService @Environment_Ke @Forestry__Kenya

CORPORATE SERVICES DIRECTORATE HOLDS A CONSULTATIVE MEETING Staff from the Corporate Services directorate have today engaged in a consultative meeting to evaluate performance and strategize for the upcoming 2026/2027 Financial Year. The team leader Senior Manager Ms Lucy Kiboi, observed there is need to enhance service delivery through well articulated Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation, Assessment and Learning. She also emphasized the need to have regular meetings to improve productivity through close monitoring of directorate activities. The Manager HR Mr Patrick Tialal noted that the recently approved HR instruments would improve staff performance due to well streamlined HR structure. He added that digitization of HR processes such as staff appraisals were expected to boost efficiency. The Manager ICT, Stephen Cheboi explained the process of digitizing various Forestry processes is expected to continue supporting the ease of doing business.

Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (@KAM_Kenya) held a meeting today to strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities for expanding their partnership. The meeting, chaired by Dr. Ngoriareng, Principal Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests, focused on two key areas. The first was the extension of the existing framework of collaboration to enhance joint efforts towards the national goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. The second focused on harmonizing collaboration in Kilifi County, particularly with salt mining companies, to promote sustainable salt production, conservation of mangrove forests and livelihood improvement programmes for local communities. Participants also proposed a multi-stakeholder engagement forum to bring together relevant actors and strengthen coordinated action. Speaking during the meeting, KAM Chief Executive Officer Mr. Tobias Alando appreciated KFS for convening the discussions and emphasized the importance of sustaining the partnership to achieve shared environmental and socio-economic goals. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both institutions to fostering strategic partnerships that support environmental conservation and community development.

KFS Leads Inter-Agency Prayer and Thanksgiving Service in Kiambu The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) led an Inter-Agency Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Parish in Kiambu, bringing together officers from various disciplined services, their families, clergy, and members of the public. The event offered an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to serving the nation. Speaking during the service, Dr. Clement Ng'oriareng' encouraged officers to embrace gratitude and continue serving the public with professionalism, dedication, and integrity. He also thanked the Catholic Church for its support in promoting the spiritual wellbeing of officers. KFS Chaplain Bishop Amos Ole Dapaash emphasized the importance of faith, integrity, and selfless service, while Bishop Wallace Nganga urged officers and their families to cultivate gratitude, humility, and self-discipline as essential values for effective leadership and personal growth. The main celebrant, Fr. JB Macharia, encouraged officers to strengthen family bonds and maintain peaceful relationships. Representing the Regional Commissioner, Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Macharia challenged officers to uphold high moral standards, promote peace, and serve with fairness, compassion, and respect for human dignity. The service brought together officers from KFS, the National Police Service, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Administration Police Service, the Kenya Wildlife Service, the Kenya Prisons Service, and other government agencies. The event reinforced inter-agency cooperation, values-driven leadership, and a shared commitment to national development and social cohesion.

Kenya Forest Service Participates in World Environment Day Celebrations Kenya Forest Service joined stakeholders in marking World Environment Day 2026 in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County, during a vibrant celebration that brought together government leaders, local communities, women, youth, and cultural groups through colorful traditional performances. Speaking during the event, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Deborah Barasa, highlighted key milestones achieved by the Ministry, including initiatives that support livelihood improvement, agroforestry promotion, adoption of drought-resistant crops and enhanced climate monitoring systems. She emphasized on the ongoing 15 Billion Trees Growing Programme, which is contributing significantly to the restoration of climate-resilient ecosystems. Kenya Forest Service, represented by Nyandarua County Forest Conservator Daniel Mkung, showcased a range of forest products and demonstrated the critical role forests play in climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods. Other KFS officials in attendance were Madam Ann Kaari, Manager Corporate Communications and Edith Bikeri Deputy Director at the Natural Forest Conservation. Other dignitaries present included the Principal Secretary Dr Festus Ng’eno, the County Commissioner, representatives from the NEMA, the Nyandarua County Government, and former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to restoring ecosystems, combating climate change, and building a greener, sustainable future for Kenya.

CCF Hosts KCB Team to Discuss Solar Energy Financing @CCF_Kenya, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today hosted a delegation from Kenya Commercial Bank (@KCBInKenya) led by the Head of Sustainability, Mr. Erick Naivasha, to discuss opportunities for the adoption of solar energy across Kenya Forest Service (KFS) facilities. During the meeting, KCB presented its solar energy financing solution aimed at supporting institutions transitioning to clean, reliable, and cost-effective power sources. KFS expressed interest in exploring solar energy as a sustainable alternative that aligns with its mandate of environmental conservation, climate action, and sustainable resource management. Given the Service's widespread presence across the country, including remote forest stations and outposts, solar power offers an opportunity to enhance energy reliability, reduce operational costs, and lower carbon emissions. The two teams agreed to continue engaging through a structured framework to explore implementation options and financing models that will support the adoption of solar energy within KFS operations.

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.

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.

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 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 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