Lusaka, Duale launch KSh620M Mt Elgon Ecosystem Restoration project

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka together with Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Aden Duale have launched a Ksh620 million Integrated Landscape Management project aimed at conserving and restoring Mt Elgon ecosystem.

“Let this money transform the livelihoods of our people,” Governor Lusaka stated during the launch held at Kaberwa Primary grounds in Kapsokwony, Mt Elgon on November 7.

The Kaberwa Tree Nursery is set to expand from 1 to 2 acres, increasing its annual seedling production from 500,000 to 1 million.

“The 620M project will see the Kaberua Tree Nursery increase its size from the current 1 acre to a substantial 2 acres, facilitating a more efficient and effective production process. This strategic growth is part of a broader effort to restore and rehabilitate the degraded areas of the Mt. Elgon Forest, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the 15 Billion National Tree Growing Programme,” said Duale.

This expansion will support the restoration of the Mt. Elgon Forest, aligning with the government’s 15 Billion National Tree Growing Programme.

The expansion is also expected to create jobs in tree nursery operations, conservation, and related fields, stimulating local economies within the Mt. Elgon Forest Ecosystem Project area.

The project is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in partnership with the Kaberua Community Forest Association (CFA).

“Through the Integrated Landscape Management for Conservation and Restoration of the Mt. Elgon Forest Ecosystem Project, the expansion will also stimulate local economies by creating new employment opportunities in tree nursery operations, conservation activities, and related sectors,” added Duale.

At the same time, Duale announced a complete ban on all forms of cultivation in natural forests as one way of promoting conservation.