Conservation of threatened Cola species in the coastal forests of Kilifi county, Kenya

Conservation of threatened Cola species in the coastal forests of Kilifi county, Kenya

Partner: National Museums of Kenya
Years: 2025-2027

The coastal forests of Kenya, extending along the Indian Ocean, form part of the Eastern African Coastal Forests, recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot for their distinctive and rich flora. These forests are distinguished by a high degree of endemism, containing numerous plant species that are found nowhere else globally. This project aims to ensure long-term survival of viable populations of the target species and other threatened plant species in the coastal forests of Kilifi county.

The National Museums of Kenya (NMK), established in 1910, is a state corporation dedicated to the sustainable management of national heritage through innovative research, knowledge dissemination, and entrepreneurial activities. Through the East African Herbarium botanical research, the NMK serves as a national repository and reference centre for plant and fungi diversity.
In 2024, the IUCN Red List classified over 120 plant species from the East African coastal forests region hotspot as threatened. This project aims to promote the long-term conservation of two Cola species, Cola porphyrantha (CR) and Cola octoloboides (EN), among other threatened and non-threatened tree species in the coastal forests of Kenya.
The project will achieve its goals by mapping the current population status and threats in their natural habitat. It will develop propagation protocols for the target and other threatened plant species to promote their conservation. The study area will be evaluated for designation as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) and Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measure (OECM). Additionally, the project partners will train local communities on alternative livelihoods to reduce pressure on forests and raise conservation awareness. It will restore degraded ecosystems by enrichment planting of threatened and indigenous species, enhancing forest health and connectivity. To ensure long-term success the project will involve diverse stakeholders, including local communities, schools, government agencies, non-profits, and academic institutions.