The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and Kyoto Network have initiated discussions on a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening forest conservation and promoting sustainable management of Kenya’s forests through innovation, community engagement and technology.
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko hosted a delegation from Kyoto Network led by its Co-Founder, Amro Zakaria, for high-level consultations on potential areas of collaboration to support the country’s forest restoration and greening agenda.
Among the proposals discussed were expanding apiculture as an alternative source of income for communities living near forests, promoting ecotourism, deploying technology and artificial intelligence to improve forest monitoring and protection, and mobilizing resources to scale up conservation programmes nationwide.
Speaking after the meeting, Lemarkoko said partnerships are essential to achieving sustainable forest conservation and restoring degraded ecosystems.
“No single institution can achieve sustainable forest conservation alone. By bringing together the government, the private sector, development partners and communities, we can harness innovation, mobilize resources and create lasting solutions that safeguard our forests while improving livelihoods,” he said.
He welcomed Kyoto Network’s interest in collaborating with KFS, expressing optimism that the partnership would contribute to Kenya’s environmental restoration efforts.
Zakaria reaffirmed Kyoto Network’s commitment to supporting KFS through innovative, technology-driven conservation solutions and community-centred initiatives that enhance environmental sustainability while creating economic opportunities.
“We believe meaningful partnerships are the foundation of lasting conservation outcomes. Kyoto Network is committed to collaborating with KFS to leverage innovation, artificial intelligence and sustainable financing to protect forests, empower communities and support Kenya’s ambitious restoration and climate goals,” he said.
The meeting concluded with the two institutions agreeing to establish a joint technical committee to develop a framework for formalizing the partnership and implementing the proposed areas of cooperation.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
