Nairobi: The Australian government has supported the government with the Sh287 million meant for a project dubbed 'Regreening for the Future.' The project aims to equip researchers and farmers with the knowledge and skills to develop sustainable regreening initiatives that adapt to changing climate conditions. The study will explore policies and support systems that empower communities to restore degraded landscapes, enhance food security, and enhance climate change resilience.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Jane Njuguna, Director of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), emphasized the global impact of climate change, noting that Kenya is experiencing its effects across social and economic sectors. The 'Regreening for the Future' initiative builds on existing partnerships with institutions and researchers in Australia and Eastern Africa, empowering farmers and researchers to develop sustainable regreening strategies adaptable to the evolving climate.
Dr. Njuguna highlighted that the project aligns with Kenya's government goals to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded land and increase tree cover to 32% by 2032, in line with the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR 1000) and the Bonn Challenge.
Prof. Wendy Umberger, Chief Executive of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), stated that as climate change intensifies land degradation, community-led regreening efforts must be climate-ready. She noted that the initiative invests directly in people-farmers, scientists, and policymakers-who are essential to driving these changes. This reflects a broader commitment from the Australian Government through ACIAR to support agricultural research and capacity-building in Africa.
Gilbert Kamanga, National Director of World Vision Kenya, affirmed their dedication to restoring landscapes and building resilient communities to ensure a sustainable future. The 'Regreening for the Future' project is seen as a transformative initiative that will empower farmers and communities with knowledge and tools necessary to restore degraded ecosystems and enhance food security.
Supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), the collaborative project involves key partners, including World Vision Australia, World Vision Kenya, KEFRI, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR-ICRAF), the University of Nairobi, and the United Nations University. Its primary objective is to explore effective adaptation strategies that enhance community-driven regreening initiatives and accelerate the restoration of degraded landscapes in Kenya. Key highlights of the initiative include a focus on community-led regreening, empowering farmers and communities with knowledge and tools for sustainable land management.