Nairobi: The government, through the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), is in the process of reinstating farming by communities in 138 forests in the country, under a new program called the plantation establishment through the livelihood scheme. This initiative marks a departure from the previous shamba system.
According to Kenya News Agency, Forestry Principal Secretary (PS) Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, during a meeting with communities around Imenti Forest in Imenti Central Constituency, emphasized that the new program ensures occupiers of forests are members of Community Forest Associations. These members have been sensitized on forest conservation best practices, a measure not included in the shamba system.
Farmers involved in the program are required to plant and maintain trees, ensuring more than 80 percent survival over three years. Failure to meet this requirement will result in ineligibility for future plot allocations. This new condition is aimed at enhancing accountability, a feature absent in the previous system.
The program also mandates conservation processes alongside farming activities. Mr. Mugambi explained that the department aims to establish a harmonious coexistence between the forest and the community, allowing both to benefit.
“We are looking at the benefits the community can get from the forests and at the same time conserving it for future generations since some of these forests are major water towers in the country,” stated Mr. Gitonga. The communities, he added, have recognized past mistakes leading to their evictions and are committed to rectifying them moving forward.
The reinstatement process has already been implemented in Nyandarua, Nakuru, Kericho, and now Meru, with plans to extend it nationwide to ensure all forests are conserved. Imenti Central MP Kirima Nguchine, who was present at the meeting, expressed gratitude to the government for reinstating the community members, noting the significant impact past evictions had on their lives, particularly regarding food security.
“We are happy the government has made arrangements through their associations, and this will enhance one of the key agendas of the Kenya Kwanza government through food security,” said Mr. Nguchine. He pledged to help raise awareness among his constituents about the vital role forests play in their lives, providing essential resources like water, food, grazing fields, and firewood.