Mainstreaming threatened tree species reforestation efforts in Kenya

Upscaling the mainstreaming of threatened tree species into restoration programmes in Kenya’s water towers

Partner: The International Tree Foundation (ITF)
Years: 2024-2027

This project is the continuation of International Tree Foundation’s collaboration with BGCI and the Kenya National Threatened Tree Consortium, established in 2021 and funded by Fondation Franklinia. The consortium has developed a detailed plan to conserve Kenya’s threatened tree species. Building on the success of the recent grant, the organization aims to expand their tree-planting efforts, leveraging existing infrastructure and insights gained to fortify its impact.

International Tree Foundation (ITF) is a charity supporting communities across Africa and the UK to plan and execute sustainable tree-planting projects. This initiative aims to protect and restore 15 threatened and 20 indigenous African tree species in Mount Kenya, the Aberdare Ranges, and the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest in Kenya.
This project aims to restore the forest ecosystem by strategically planting 415,000 trees, including 105,000 from threatened species and 300,000 native trees. This will help accelerate ecological succession, enhance biodiversity, and protect habitats. Additionally, ITF will plant 10,000 high-value multipurpose agroforestry trees to support local communities within the forest buffers.
The project aims to enhance the capabilities of 20 organisations dedicated to conserving threatened trees. It intends to achieve this by offering guidance, resources, and training to 150 individuals from nursery groups. The primary focus is producing seedlings of threatened tree species and involving 1,000 local community members in conservation efforts. Additionally, the project aims to improve livelihoods, promote gender inclusion, and provide post-planting care for all trees.
Expanding on previous achievements with Fondation Franklinia & BGCI and ongoing tree-planting efforts in three water towers, the project aims to be cost-effective while maintaining ecological balance and enhancing biodiversity. It also seeks to strengthen collaborations with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) and establish a scalable framework for similar organizations throughout Kenya.