#MazingiraDay2026 #TukoGroundTunaGreen #MtaaSafiVibeSafi #JazaMiti #15BillionTreesBy2032 #15BWajibuWaKilaMkenya

CCF ENGAGES LEMBUS COMMUNITY TO STRENGTHEN PARTICIPATORY FOREST MANAGEMENT The Forest Conservation and Management Act places communities living adjacent to forests at the centre of forest management through participatory forest management, recognising them as key partners in the conservation, protection and sustainable management of forest resources. Their participation is therefore critical in strengthening forest protection, restoration and local ownership of forest resources. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) regards community participation not only as a legal obligation, but also as a practical approach to effective forest management. Working with forest-adjacent communities builds trust, strengthens local ownership and promotes shared responsibility for protecting forests, growing trees and restoring degraded landscapes. In line with this provision, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today held a stakeholder engagement meeting with the Lembus community at the Esageri Police Station Public Baraza grounds, where he called for stronger collaboration between KFS and residents in forest conservation, protection and restoration. The engagement brought together Area Member of Parliament Hon. Musa Sirma, DCCF's Dr. Thomas Kiptoo and Anne Nyaoke, members of the Lembus community, Mau Forest Conservancy leadership led by Regional Commandant Mr. David Mutoro, and other KFS officers. The forum provided an opportunity for the community to share views on forest management and strengthen dialogue with KFS, while also mobilising residents to participate in preparations for the upcoming Mazingira Day celebrations. “Forest conservation cannot be achieved by KFS alone. Communities living adjacent to forests are our partners and our social fence. We must work together to protect our forests, grow more trees and ensure that the trees we plant survive,” said the CCF. Mr. Lemarkoko urged residents to move beyond ceremonial tree planting to sustained tree growing, emphasising the need to nurture planted seedlings and support restoration of degraded landscapes. He also called on residents to prepare for the expected El Niño rains and help protect forest catchments and other critical ecosystems. Hon. Musa Sirma called on the Lembus community to take greater ownership of forest conservation and work closely with KFS to safeguard forest resources for present and future generations. “Our forests are our heritage and our future. As a community, we must work with KFS to protect them and ensure that future generations inherit healthier forests,” said Hon. Sirma. Lembus Council of Elders Chairman Mzee Joseph Leboo welcomed the engagement, noting the community’s longstanding relationship with the forest and its important role in its protection. “Protecting the forest is protecting our own future. We must ensure that our people, especially the young generation, understand the importance of trees, water and the environment,” said Mzee Leboo. The engagement reaffirmed KFS’s commitment to participatory forest management and meaningful collaboration with forest-adjacent communities in forest protection, tree growing, landscape restoration and sustainable forest management.

KFS Hosts First National Organizing Committee Meeting for Joint Thanksgiving Service The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today hosted the first meeting of the National Organizing Committee for the National Joint Thanksgiving Service for Uniformed Disciplined Services and their families, scheduled for 7th November 2026. The meeting brought together representatives of the seven participating services: Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Police Service (KPS), Administration Police Service (APS), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Kenya Prisons Service and the National Youth Service (NYS). The committee deliberated on preparations, coordination and key activities leading up to the national thanksgiving service. The meeting was chaired by KFS Head of Chaplaincy, Bishop Amos Ololdapash, on behalf of the National Chairman, Dr. Clement Ng’oriareng, who joined virtually. Dr. Ng’oriareng addressed the participants and appreciated the commitment of the various services in taking the thanksgiving prayers across different regions of the country, culminating in the national service. National Coordinator Fr. Paul Miring’u appreciated the support and collaboration extended by the KFS leadership throughout the regional thanksgiving programmes, including the provision of the KFS Band to support various ceremonies. The committee also discussed Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to be undertaken as part of the thanksgiving programme. These will include visits to vulnerable and needy members of communities, offering support and encouragement, as well as promoting environmental conservation through tree planting. KFS will support these efforts by providing tree seedlings for planting in homesteads and nearby schools. The national thanksgiving service will bring together the participating uniformed disciplined services and their families in a celebration of faith, unity, service and gratitude, while also providing an opportunity to strengthen community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Ag. Senior Manager Corporate Services Engages Administration Staff The Acting Senior Manager for Corporate Services, Mr. Patrick Tialal, today held an introductory meeting with staff from the Administration Department as part of efforts to familiarize himself with the team, understand key operational issues and gain insights into the department’s day-to-day functions. The engagement provided an opportunity for Mr. Tialal to interact with staff and discuss ways of strengthening service delivery and efficiency within the department. Mr. Tialal expressed his readiness to take up the new responsibility and encouraged staff to remain committed to their respective roles by adhering to established guidelines, policies and procedures. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, accountability and effective utilization of available resources, noting that every staff member has a role to play in supporting the smooth operations of the Service. He further looked forward to engaging with staff at their respective work stations to better understand their responsibilities and operational needs. Hosting the Ag. Senior Manager, the Administration Manager, Mr. Isaac Wekesa, welcomed Mr. Tialal to the department and expressed confidence in his leadership and experience. He noted that Mr. Tialal had overseen significant milestones while serving in the Human Resource Department and expressed optimism that the same commitment and achievements would be replicated in Administration. The Administration Department plays a critical role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the Service by ensuring that essential administrative functions and services are effectively coordinated.

OLOOLUA FOREST FENCING TO BEGIN IN OCTOBER The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) will commence construction of a 25-kilometre perimeter fence around Oloolua Forest in October 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen forest protection, conservation and restoration. The roadmap was agreed during a meeting between @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Alex Lemarkoko, EBS, ndc (K), and Principal Secretary, @irrigationke , @EphantusKim, who is Patron of the Oloolua Forest Conservation and Livelihoods Improvement Programme, at Maji House, Nairobi. The fencing programme will involve Community Forest Associations (CFAs), creating opportunities for youth and women while strengthening community ownership and stewardship of the forest. The initiative will enhance forest surveillance and create an enabling environment for natural regeneration and ecological restoration, while supporting Oloolua Forest’s potential as an urban recreational and sports facility, complementing the role of Karura Forest.

KFS, DEVRAI FOUNDATION EYE PARTNERSHIP ON TREE-GROWING AGENDA Kenya’s forest sector offers significant opportunities for investment, innovation and collaboration, making strategic partnerships critical to expanding access to quality planting materials and accelerating the Government’s Fifteen Billion Tree Growing Programme. KFS remains open to strategic partnerships that advance the national tree-growing agenda. In this regard, @CCF_Kenya (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today held discussions with representatives of the Devrai Foundation to explore areas of collaboration within the forestry sector. The Foundation expressed interest in supporting KFS with quality seeds, particularly fruit tree seedlings, to enhance access to diverse planting materials. The CCF welcomed the initiative, noting that collaboration among government, the private sector, development partners and communities is key to mobilising the resources and expertise required to achieve the 15 billion tree target by 2032. The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships across the tree-growing value chain, from seed and seedling production to planting, establishment and survival.

KFS, ATY (T) INTERNATIONAL EXPLORE NON-EXTRACTIVE FOREST PRODUCT VALUE ADDITION The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) is exploring non-extractive approaches to forest product value addition as part of efforts to promote sustainable utilisation of forest resources while reducing reliance on conventional harvesting. In line with this approach, @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today hosted a delegation from ATY (T) International Ltd, led by the company’s Vice President, Mr. Rayden Lei, at KFS Headquarters for discussions on opportunities to harness forest resources through innovative, non-extractive methods. The discussions focused on opportunities for value addition to forest products through non-extractive methods, with particular attention to the potential production of turpentine from pine trees. The engagement seeks to identify innovative approaches that can unlock economic value from forest resources while supporting conservation and sustainable forest management. The CCF welcomed the engagement, noting the importance of exploring innovative technologies and partnerships that can contribute to the sustainable utilisation of Kenya’s forest resources. The discussions underscore KFS’s growing focus on diversifying forest-based enterprises and promoting value addition approaches that complement conservation objectives.

FIELD SITUATION REPORT – MAASAI MAU FOREST Today, a team led by the Commandant, Kenya Forest Service (KFS), visited the Maasai Mau Forest to assess the extent of illegal invasion, encroachment, and destruction of the forest by members of the local community. During the assessment, it was established that two KFS ranger camps in the Kabarak and Kamngengoi areas had been completely burnt down also electric fence and forest scout houses had also been burnt down. Fresh fires were also observed at various locations along the forest boundary, with groups of people sighted in the area. Some of the individuals were reportedly armed with bows and arrows. One group was observed seated together in what appeared to be a baraza. The team landed at Toltol Operations Camp, where they were received by the CFC Narok, Base Commander, and County Commander. The Commandant addressed the officers and commended them for their dedication and continued efforts in protecting the forest despite the prevailing challenges. The Commandant encouraged the officers to remain vigilant and continue safeguarding the forest. He further informed them that a multi agency team is to commence a one-month operation immediately targeting the eviction of armed invaders from the forest. As part of the welfare response, officers who lost their uniforms during the burning of the camps were issued with new uniforms. Further welfare arrangements for the affected officers are being addressed. The visit provided an opportunity to assess the security and conservation situation on the ground, appreciate the efforts of the deployed officers, and reinforce operational preparedness ahead of the planned operation.

WORLD BAMBOO DAY CELEBRATIONS MARKED AT MERU UNIVERSITY World Bamboo Day 2026 was marked at Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST), bringing together government representatives, researchers, farmers, exhibitors, students and other stakeholders to celebrate the importance of bamboo in environmental conservation, climate action and economic development. The celebrations were graced by the Forest Development Secretary, Mr. George Tarus, who represented the Principal Secretary for Forestry, Mr. Gitonga Mugambi. He was joined by the Head of Drylands and Farm Forestry, Mr. Albert Nyabuti, who represented the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko; Meru County Forest Conservator (CFC), Mr. Wellington Ndaka; and Mr. Donald Avude from KFS Headquarters. Also present were KEFRI Board Chairman, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Koipaton; KEFRI Director General, Dr. Jane Njuguna; Meru University of Science and Technology Vice Chancellor, Prof. Romanos Odhiambo; and the CEO of Earthlungs Reforestation Foundation, Mr. Victor Mwanga, among other guests. As part of the celebrations, Mr. Tarus toured various exhibition stands, including the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) booth, where he was taken through the Service’s bamboo initiatives, bamboo commodities produced by Community Forest Associations (CFAs), and other conservation programmes. The KFS exhibition showcased bamboo seedlings, propagation techniques and a range of bamboo products, highlighting the Service’s role in promoting bamboo growing, sustainable utilisation and environmental conservation. In his speech, Mr. Tarus emphasised the need for effective implementation of the Kenya Bamboo Strategy to promote sustainable rural livelihoods, restore degraded landscapes and position Kenya as a regional leader in bamboo development. Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Koipaton, Chairman of the KEFRI Board, called for strengthened collaboration among research institutions, government agencies, academia, communities and the private sector to accelerate bamboo development in Kenya. He noted that such partnerships are critical in translating research and innovation into practical solutions that benefit farmers, enterprises and communities. In her remarks, Dr. Jane Njuguna highlighted the important role of research, innovation and technology in unlocking the full potential of bamboo in Kenya. She noted that KEFRI continues to support the development of improved bamboo planting materials, propagation technologies and knowledge to enhance bamboo production while contributing to environmental restoration and sustainable livelihoods. Prof. Romanos Odhiambo highlighted the role of universities in advancing research, innovation and knowledge-sharing around bamboo. He noted that institutions of higher learning have an important role to play in developing technologies, nurturing skills, and supporting students and communities to explore bamboo-based enterprises and solutions. He further noted that the growing bamboo industry presents opportunities for creating green jobs, particularly for the youth, while supporting Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and contributing to local economic development. The celebrations provided an opportunity for stakeholders to showcase innovations, share knowledge and explore opportunities for expanding bamboo production and utilisation as part of Kenya’s climate action, landscape restoration and green economic development agenda.

*GSU PASS-OUT PARADE* @CCF_Kenya, (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, today joined Service Commanders and senior security officials at the General Service Unit (GSU) Pass-Out Parade held at the National Police College (NPC), Embakasi B Campus. The ceremony, presided over by H.E. President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, marked the successful completion of rigorous paramilitary training by newly trained GSU officers. The comprehensive training equipped the officers with the discipline, knowledge, skills and operational capabilities required to effectively discharge their duties in safeguarding national security and serving the people of Kenya. The CCF was accompanied by KFS Chaplain Amos Ololdapash, and officers from KFS Headquarters underscoring the strong collaboration and coordination among Kenya’s uniformed and disciplined services and their shared commitment to enhancing national security, public safety and effective service delivery.

THE UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON FOREST FIELD VISIT The United Nations Forum on Forests Secretariat (UNFFS) recently conducted a field visit to the Gathioro Forest in Nyeri County to inspect ongoing ecological restoration efforts. Led by Regional Forest Conservator (RFC) Central Highlands, Madam Monica Ndirangu, alongside County Forest Conservator (CFC) Nyeri, Mr. Peter Kooro and the Community Forest Association (CFA) representatives, the delegation toured key rehabilitation sites. As a vital ecosystem, Gathioro Forest plays a crucial role in water catchment protection and regulation, biodiversity conservation, invasive species control, and the support of local livelihoods through sustainable economic activities. During the guided tour, the KFS team, joined by the CFA members, demonstrated the practical work underway to restore degraded areas and mitigate environmental threats. KFS leadership and community representatives expressed deep appreciation for the UNFFS initiative, highlighting the positive impact of international support on local conservation. They urged the UNFFS to maintain and expand its collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to ensure long-term ecological resilience and the successful rehabilitation of this critical landscape.

DAY TWO WORLD BAMBOO EXHIBITION AT MERU UNIVERSITY The second day of the National World Bamboo Expo 2026 at Meru University continued with exhibitions and stakeholder engagements, with various bamboo products displayed across different booths. Key speakers included Anne Fidelis Itubo, Head of Participatory Forest Management at KFS Dr. Jane Njuguna, CEO/Director of KEFRI,Dr. George Mbeva Muthike , Deputy Director, Forest Products and Entrepreneurship Development at KEFRI, who shared information on the different types of bamboo, their characteristics and suitable areas for planting. Participants were guided on where different bamboo species can be planted, the conditions required for their growth and the importance of selecting suitable species depending on the intended purpose. Bamboo was highlighted as an important resource that can contribute to landscape restoration and the national tree-growing agenda. The Women in Bamboo session highlighted the important role of women in the bamboo sector and emphasised that bamboo is a whole value chain, not just a plant. The discussions highlighted opportunities for women and other stakeholders in bamboo growing, processing, value addition, manufacturing and marketing. The second day provided an important platform for knowledge sharing, networking and promoting bamboo as a resource for environmental conservation, climate action, livelihoods and economic empowerment. Among those present were KEFRI Chairman Lieutenant General (Rtd.) Walter Koipaton Opiato, KEFRI Director Dr. Jane Njuguna,National Environment Complaints Committee CEO Mary Njogu and the CFC Meru County Wellington Ndaka.

KFS CONCLUDES ISO 9001:2015 AUDIT The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has concluded its two-day ISO 9001:2015 audit, assessing the Service’s Quality Management System and departmental processes against international quality management requirements. The closing meeting, officiated by Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Alex Lemarkoko, brought together KFS management and auditors from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) to review the audit findings and key areas for improvement. The assessment provided an opportunity to identify gaps and strengthen institutional processes, operational efficiency and service delivery. KFS remains committed to quality assurance, accountability and continual improvement in delivering services to stakeholders and the public.

KFS HOLDS FIRST STAFF PENSION FUND AGM The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Staff Pension Fund has held its first Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together members and key pension stakeholders to review the Fund’s performance and discuss members’ retirement benefits. The hybrid meeting, held at KFS Headquarters, Karura, provided members with an opportunity to receive updates on the Fund, seek clarification and engage with the Trustees and service providers on pension-related matters. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. George Muthike, encouraged members to increase their Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) to strengthen their retirement savings. @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Alex Lemarkoko, EBS, ‘ndc’ (K), addressing his first Pension Fund AGM, urged staff to actively participate in the scheme and embrace early retirement planning to secure their financial wellbeing after service. The AGM reaffirmed KFS’s commitment to employee welfare, accountability and prudent management of pension resources for the benefit of its staff.

CS BARASA OPENS NATIONAL WORLD BAMBOO EXPO 2026 IN MERU Cabinet Secretary for @Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, CS Deborah Barasa, today officially opened the National World Bamboo Expo 2026 at Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST), under the theme, “Sustainable Bamboo for Climate Action, Economic Growth and Empowerment.” The expo brought together farmers, exhibitors, investors and delegates to showcase the potential of bamboo in advancing climate action, economic development and sustainable livelihoods. The Chief Guest was accompanied by Meru Deputy Governor H.E. Linda Koome, Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) Director General Dr. Jane Njuguna, Forestry Secretary Administration Patrick Meso and MUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, among other guests. The CCF was represented by GZDSP II Mr. Jerome Mwanzia and County Forest Conservator Mr. Muli Ndaka. CS Barasa toured various exhibition booths, including the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) stand, where she was taken through different bamboo species and innovative bamboo products such as butter knives, cups, gutters, chicken feeders and toothbrush holders. The products demonstrated the potential of bamboo for value addition, enterprise development and income generation. In her remarks, CS Barasa encouraged Kenyans to tap into the growing demand for bamboo products and embrace bamboo as a viable enterprise opportunity. She noted that bamboo demonstrates resilience, regeneration and resourcefulness, while offering opportunities for climate action, economic growth and empowerment. She announced that the Government plans to establish 10 bamboo nurseries across the country, with a combined capacity to propagate more than 10 million bamboo seedlings, contributing to the national tree-growing campaign. The CS also commended the creativity and innovation demonstrated by entrepreneurs and exhibitors at the expo and called for increased investment in bamboo processing and value addition. She assured stakeholders of Government support for bamboo projects and urged investors and other stakeholders to explore the sector as a sustainable economic opportunity, emphasizing that Kenya is open to investment in bamboo.

CCF OFFICIATES OPENING MEETING FOR ISO 9001:2015 AUDIT @CCF_Kenya (CCF), Alex Lemarkoko, has officiated the opening meeting for the ISO 9001:2015 audit at Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Headquarters, marking the start of the assessment of the Service’s Quality Management System. The two-day audit, conducted by auditors from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (@KEBS_ke), brings together KFS management and the audit team to assess departmental processes and systems for conformity with ISO 9001:2015 requirements, while identifying areas for improvement. ISO certification provides organisations with a structured framework for quality assurance, efficient processes, accountability, continual improvement and consistent service delivery. For KFS, the audit underscores the Service’s commitment to strengthening institutional systems, improving operational efficiency and enhancing the quality of services delivered to stakeholders and the public.

STATEMENT BY KFS ON THE ILLEGAL OCCUPATION OF KARURA FOREST BY MUTHAIGA GOLF CLUB.

SOUTH HOR FOREST ADJACENT COMMUNITY PAYS CCF A COURTESY CALL Community representatives from areas neighbouring South Hor Forest, led by Samburu Senator @SenLelegwe , today paid a courtesy call on the @CCF_Kenya, (CCF), Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, to discuss matters concerning the conservation and sustainable management of the forest. The community representatives expressed their willingness to work closely with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to support the sustainable management and conservation of South Hor Forest. They noted that the forest plays an important role in supporting the environmental, cultural and livelihood needs of communities living in the surrounding areas. The CCF thanked the community representatives and Senator Lelegwe for their commitment and commendable efforts towards the conservation of the forest. He assured them of KFS’s support and continued collaboration with the adjacent communities in promoting the sustainable management and protection of South Hor Forest.

KFS LAUNCHES TOOL FOR REGULAR TREE-COVER MONITORING Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has launched a technology-driven tool to support regular and cost-effective monitoring of tree cover and strengthen evidence-based forest management. Developed through the KFS–Japan International Cooperation Agency (@jica_direct_en) collaboration under the SFS-CORECC Project, the tool was piloted in Makueni County using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and machine-learning approaches. The pilot recorded over 80 per cent accuracy, with tree-cover mapping achieving 84.4 per cent tree cover accuracy and land-cover mapping 81.1 per cent land cover accuracy. The 2026 assessment estimated Makueni’s tree cover at 14.72 per cent and forest cover at 6.83 per cent. The Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, was presented with the tool by the Forest Survey and Information Department at KFS Headquarters, Nairobi. The tool will complement periodic national assessments, including the 2021 National Forest Resources Assessment, by enabling more frequent monitoring of changes in tree cover and providing timely spatial information to guide conservation, restoration and tree-growing interventions. The initiative strengthens KFS’ application of remote sensing, geospatial technology and machine learning in monitoring Kenya’s forest and tree resources.