Kilifi: Transforming Denuded Land into a Climate-Smart Zone for Sustainable Living at Greenheart of Kenya

In Kilifi, a previously denuded 5,000 acre zone in coastal Kenya, is getting a remarkable new buzz as efforts to reclaim and revitalize the land get a kick. From these efforts have sprung a premium housing project that uses alternative clean energy sources, premium, convenient social amenities, and common in the Western world capitals and is building with #sustainable construction materials and techniques.

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Covering an expansive area of 750 acres, this climate smart real estate housing initiative aims to transform Kilifi’s Greenheart of Kenya into a climate-smart livable zone, offering an idyllic setting for premium sustainable living.

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With its growing abundant forest cover, managed by a local team of experts in permaculture, agroforestry and landscape managers, the land is regaining its luxurious eco-friendly aura filled with over 59,000 species of trees.

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This project that begun in 2015 showcases the potential of rewilding and reforesting efforts in creating a harmonious balance between nature and modern living. In this article, we will delve into the exciting features and benefits of this climate-smart zone in Kilifi.

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1.????Restored Ecosystems and Air Quality

The restoration of 70% forest cover in Kilifi brings a breath of fresh air to the region. Forests act as natural air filters, capturing pollutants and providing cleaner and healthier air for residents. With the expansion of the forested area, Kilifi will witness a significant improvement in air quality, promoting the well-being of its inhabitants and reducing the risk of respiratory diseases that stems from urban living.

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2.????Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience

The presence of extensive forest cover in Kilifi contributes to significant carbon sequestration, making it an integral part of climate change mitigation efforts. The trees within the reforested 100 acre corridor zone absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, acting as valuable carbon sinks. This helps reduce the carbon footprint and enhances the region's capacity to mitigate climate change. Additionally, the reforested area in Kilifi boosts climate resilience. Forests play a critical role in buffering against extreme weather events such as floods and storms. They stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and regulate water cycles, reducing the vulnerability of the community to climate-related risks and enhancing their ability to adapt.

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3.????Luxurious and Sustainable Living

The climate-smart zone in Kilifi offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability. The project incorporates eco-friendly design principles and renewable energy sources, ensuring that the infrastructure aligns with sustainable living practices. Residents can enjoy the benefits of modern amenities while minimizing their environmental impact.

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Moreover, the integration of nature into the living spaces provides numerous wellness benefits. Proximity to lush forests and green spaces promotes mental well-being, reduces stress, and offers a serene and tranquil environment. Kilifi becomes a sanctuary where individuals can reconnect with nature and foster a sustainable lifestyle.

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4.????Economic Opportunities and Community Development

The transformation of Greenheart of Kenya’s 750 acres curved from a wider 5,000 acre ranch into a climate-smart zone generates substantial economic opportunities and fosters community development. The model plan shows intended plans to support 50 sustainable businesses and employ 5,000 people by 2030. As the books say so does the ground show.

?I visited the site and saw for myself the bristling businesses that have sprung up- a restaurant perched on a #Landrover complete with an overhanging tree house, offering relaxed meals and drinks; a fashion line enterprise that is leveraging on the local community’s creative juices; a tree nursery that now serves the whole county..

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The project supports job creation through various avenues, including reforestation efforts, eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and green industries. The growth of these sectors brings economic prosperity to the local communities, enabling them to improve their quality of life and livelihoods making them feel included, valued and respected.

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Furthermore, the involvement of local stakeholders in the planning and implementation processes empowers the community and ensures cultural preservation. This collaborative approach allows for the preservation of traditional practices and knowledge while embracing sustainable development.

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An international school called #Kivukoni sits within the perimeter and it has a waiting list of at least 2 years!

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In conclusion, the ambitious #GreenheartofKenya project in Kilifi has clearly taken off and an orgainic living culture has taken root.

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Soon it will be trading carbon units as the acreage under forested cover grows from the 100 acre corridor to even more trees- exemplifying the electrifying possibilities of re-wilding and reforesting denuded areas in all of Kenya. And showing us all just how potent Kenya sits, bristling with potential for reclaiming and revitalizing lands, building luxe homes and combining the essence and beauty of nature with luxurious, convenient and sustainable living. Plots with a 99 year lease start as low as Kshs 3 million to as high as 6.5mil at the Sanctuary (a designated sacred land). For the housing, eager buyers have already snapped up 32 plots and houses off-plan. The 2 bedroom GreenHeart Village houses squat on 1/4 acres go for 9.5million. A few remain.

Contact the writer or email [email protected] for a chance to get your free plot. The more connected we are to nature, the more enriched our lives grow. Let's embrace the wild side and experience the magic of re-wilding in the very core of East Africa's Eco Capital, the Greatheart of Kenya.

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