Harnessing innovation is key to the conservation of Kenya's forests

As the world marks the International Day of Forests, under the theme "Forests and Innovation," it is imperative to focus the spotlight on Kenya's forests and make a compelling case for their conservation through innovative and sustainable approaches. Kenya's green landscapes, adorned with lush forests, are home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. These forests provide vital ecosystem services, ranging from climate change mitigation, carbon sequestration, and water provision to biodiversity conservation.

Additionally, forests contribute significantly to Kenya's economy, with timber, non-timber forest products, and tourism representing substantial income streams. For instance, the vibrant forest ecosystems of the Aberdares contribute to the tourism sector, drawing visitors from around the globe and generating millions of shillings in revenue. Beyond their economic value, forests are a lifeline for thousands of adjacent-dwelling communities, offering them a blend of resources, from traditional medicines and wild fruits to fuelwood and building materials, critically enhancing their resilience to climate change.

However, the very existence of these exquisite habitats faces constant danger, as evidenced by the recently proposed Mau Mau road section that threatens to cut through the heart of the Aberdare Forest Reserve. Such developments pose a severe risk to the delicate balance that sustains these ecosystems, jeopardising the vital services they provide. Destroying our forests is not merely an environmental concern. It is an economic and social loss for the nation. It is, therefore, critical to promote innovative conservation approaches that safeguard our forests and promote sustainable livelihoods for the communities dependent on them.

An exemplary example of such innovation is the Kipepeo Project in Kilifi County. Under this project, communities living next to Arabuko-Sokoke Forest engage in butterfly farming as an alternative income-generating activity. Communities adjacent to the Chawia forest in Taita Hills have also participated in this activity. Through this innovative nature-based venture, the communities are supported in rearing butterflies to produce pupae sold for the export market, which earns them over 15 million shillings annually. The economic potential of such sustainable livelihood options can not be understated, highlighting the need for similar initiatives across the country.

If conserved, forests can be a wellspring of economic opportunities for communities through butterfly farming, ecotourism, beekeeping, and wild fruit harvesting, among other income-generating activities. These nature-based enterprises can contribute to local economies and ensure the long-term health of our forests. By investing in such sustainable practices, communities can become guardians of forests while securing their livelihoods.

To promote these green initiatives, the national and county governments, community-based organisations, and the private sector should recognise and support communities engaged in forest conservation. Availing incentives for forest-adjacent communities to adopt innovative nature-based livelihood options will empower them and create a ripple effect, inspiring others to join the cause.

The time to pursue innovative and sustainable approaches that balance the needs of biodiversity conservation, development and community livelihoods is now. Let's join hands to conserve our forests, unlock their potential, and secure a thriving future for Kenya.

By Rudolf Makhanu

Forest and Landscape Restoration Manager

Nature Kenya – the East African Natural History Society