Nairobi: The government has intensified its conservation efforts in Mukogodo Forest, a vital indigenous forest protected by the local community in Laikipia County. The initiative, which involves collaboration with various government ministries and agencies, aims to plant over 100,000 trees in the expansive forest.

According to Kenya News Agency, Mukogodo Forest spans approximately 17,000 acres and is home to the Yiaku, a minority community of hunters and gatherers. This community has sustained the forest through a traditional governance system, benefiting from resources such as honey and medicinal plants, and conducting traditional rituals.

Vincent Ongere, Director of Administration at the State Department of Wildlife, represented the Principal Secretary for Wildlife, Silvia Museiya, during a tree-planting exercise in Mukogodo. Ongere stated that the initiative is part of a presidential directive to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 across the country. He emphasized the dual purpose of the initiative, noting that tree planting aids in controlling climate change and protects the wild animal habitat. During the event, 5,000 trees were planted.

Laikipia North Member of Parliament, Sarah Korere, acknowledged ongoing efforts to raise awareness among residents about the importance of forest conservation. She commended the Yiaku community for their proactive role in protecting Mukogodo Forest and stressed the need for communities to be trained in using modern technology to enhance conservation efforts against climate change.

Laikipia County Commissioner Onesmus Kyatha highlighted security concerns in the forest, revealing that Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has established a special security force to tackle criminal activities. Bandits from neighboring Isiolo and Samburu counties have been entering the forest, leading to livestock theft and insecurity.

The 2022 drought exacerbated the situation as armed pastoralists from neighboring counties drove their livestock into the forest, causing significant destruction of indigenous trees and insecurity within Mukogodo East Ward. This resulted in several fatalities, business disruptions, and school closures in the surrounding villages.

The government has pledged to restore the forest’s peace and security through a coordinated security operation to eliminate bandit threats and a comprehensive tree-planting campaign.