A partnership between the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the I&M Bank Foundation has delivered significant milestones in the restoration and protection of Ngong Forest, with more than 35,000 trees having been planted, over 40 hectares rehabilitated, and 14.2 kilometers of electric fencing completed.
The achievements were highlighted during a progress review meeting held at the Kenya Forest Service headquarters, where officials from both institutions assessed the impact of the ongoing Ngong Forest Conservation Partnership ahead of its planned completion and launch in August 2026.
The meeting, chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko and attended by I&M Bank Regional CEO Kihara Maina, also reviewed improvements in forest infrastructure, including the construction of rangers’ housing, establishment of two event grounds, and installation of water storage tanks to support conservation activities.
The partners said the interventions have strengthened the protection of the Ngong Forest ecosystem while contributing to Kenya’s broader landscape restoration and climate resilience agenda.
Beyond infrastructure development, the partnership has also invested in sustainable community livelihood programmes aimed at reducing pressure on forest resources by encouraging conservation-friendly economic activities.
Officials reviewed the remaining project components, including additional rehabilitation works, installation of directional and informational signage, procurement of operational vehicles and motorcycles, and support for community scouts who will maintain the electric fence under a one-year management programme.
Speaking during the meeting, Chief Conservator of Forests, Alex Lemarkoko, said partnerships with the private sector remain critical in accelerating forest conservation efforts and restoring degraded ecosystems across the country.
He noted that the collaboration with the I&M Bank Foundation has demonstrated how joint investment can strengthen environmental protection while delivering lasting benefits to surrounding communities.
I&M Bank Regional CEO Kihara Maina reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to supporting environmental sustainability, saying the partnership reflects the role of the private sector in safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage for future generations.
The two institutions pledged to fast-track the remaining project activities ahead of the official launch scheduled for August 2026, reaffirming their commitment to protecting Ngong Forest and supporting Kenya’s national tree-growing and landscape restoration targets.
The Ngong Forest Conservation Partnership is among a growing number of public-private initiatives supporting the government’s efforts to increase forest cover, restore degraded landscapes, and build resilience against the effects of climate change.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
