ELGEYO MARAKET, Kenya – The Restoration and Sustainable Management of Cherang’any Forest Ecosystem for Climate Resilience and Improved Livelihoods Project has been launched.
Cherang’any ecosystem, located between the counties of Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, and Elgeyo Marakwet, is one of the five major water towers in Kenya.
The restoration program was launched by the Kenyan government in collaboration with the Italian government at the Chebara Agricultural Training College, Elgeyo Marakwet. This project is a significant step towards environmental conservation.
Speaking at the launch, Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa thanked the Italian government for sponsoring the initiative and emphasised its importance in protecting biodiversity, protecting water towers, and reducing the effects of climate change.
“This marks a critical milestone in our commitment to restore one of Kenya’s five major water towers and build climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and improved livelihoods for communities in Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot,” said the CS.
Currently hosting Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry CS @DeboraBarasa and other dignitaries who include West Pokot Governor H.E Simon Kachapin ,area Mp Hon. Timothy Kipchumba Toroitich and Italian Deputy Ambassador to Kenya Lorenza Maria Gambacorta among others, for the
She called on the community to work together in harmony to actualise the benefits of the project, which she noted would improve their lives through capacity building in smart agriculture and other revenue-generating activities.
“The Cherang’any ecosystem supports rivers that feed Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana, sustains rich biodiversity, and is a pillar of the region’s economy — from farming and tourism to athletics,” added CS Barasa.
What does the Cherang’any project align with, apart from the national vision
• The 15 Billion Trees by 2032 campaign
• The National Climate Change Action Plan (2023–2027)
• Our Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027
Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Eng. Festus Ngeno underscored the objective of the project to assist farmers in engaging in sustainable farming practices while conserving forests.
He noted that the region is a leader in forest conservation and called for expanded job opportunities in restoration efforts.
What does the Kenya-Italy Sustainable Development Partnership entail
On her part, the Deputy Ambassador of Italy, Lorenza Maria Gambacorta, reaffirmed her government’s commitment under the Kenya-Italy Sustainable Development Partnership, which focuses on climate action, green jobs, and community-based conservation.
She revealed that Italy has already invested €200 million in Kenyan environmental projects, expressing confidence in the Cherang’any initiative’s success.
Elgeyo-Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich thanked the national government for the project, noting that the local community had demonstrated their commitment to forest protection and conservation.
“Let me take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the local community for their improved relationship,” said the county boss.
Restoring Cherang’any Forest for Climate Resilience and Better LivelihoodsToday, I had the honour of launching the Restoration and Sustainable Management of Cherang’any Forest Ecosystem for Climate Resilience and Improved Livelihoods Project at Chebara Agricultural Training
His counterpart from West Pokot, Governor Simon Kachapin, emphasised unity among leaders and residents, linking forest restoration to clean water access, food security, and sustainable livelihoods.
While speaking at the same event, the CCF Alex Lemarkoko said that KFS was fully committed to ensuring the success of the Cherang’any restoration project.
“This is not just about planting trees—it’s about securing Kenya’s future,” he declared.
Which promise did CS Deborah Barasa make to the indigenous groups
He praised the Italian government’s support, calling it a “game-changer for forest conservation.”
Lemarkoko assured the gathering that KFS will enforce strict accountability measures to prevent mismanagement of forest resources.
The CEO of NETFUND, Samson Toniok, highlighted the role of green financing in supporting community-led conservation, pledging continued collaboration with stakeholders. “Conservation is not just an environmental issue—it’s an economic opportunity,” he said.
Restoring Cherang’any Forest for Climate Resilience and Better LivelihoodsToday, I had the honour of launching the Restoration and Sustainable Management of Cherang’any Forest Ecosystem for Climate Resilience and Improved Livelihoods Project at Chebara Agricultural Training
Meanwhile, CS Barasa reiterated that local communities — especially indigenous groups — are not just stakeholders but stewards of the country’s natural heritage.
“I reaffirm our commitment to uphold their rights and ensure continuous engagement in shaping sustainable solutions. Together, let’s restore, conserve, and secure our natural ecosystems for future generations,” she explained.
The launch marked a critical milestone in Kenya’s climate action agenda, with leaders emphasising ecological restoration, economic empowerment, and community involvement as key pillars of the Cherang’any restoration initiative.
Other officers present were the area MP, Timothy Toroitich (Marakwet West); the PS for ASALS and Regional Development, Kello Harsama; and the RFC for North Rift, John Rono, among other national and local leaders.
