The exercise was presided over by Joyce Nthuku, the Nairobi Regional Forest Conservator (KFS), who commended the team for their continued dedication to environmental protection. She noted that the restoration efforts are part of the government’s directive to achieve 15 billion tree cover by 2032.

Karura Forest, being the fourth largest within her region, showcases the beauty and value of well-managed urban forests. She reiterated that tree planting is only the beginning, emphasizing that care, monitoring, and protection are among the eleven key concepts guiding sustainable tree-growing practices.

The joint team planted 1,000 tree seedlings as part of ongoing efforts to restore and conserve the forest ecosystem. Mrs. Nthuku encouraged forest stations to include fruit tree seedlings in their nurseries, noting the growing public interest in them.

Elly Kogei, FKF Restoration Officer, shared that the 1,000 seedlings planted were scientifically selected from 76 native species, with 45 species chosen to best suit the selected ecosystem. The FKF Research Team Lead  Peter Fundi highlighted the significance of the exercise in supporting the Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys, whose feeding behavior and family patterns are closely monitored within the forest.

Overall incharge of Karura forest ecotourism Mr. Edward Munene, added that the seedlings are available from FKF, KFS, and NCBA nurseries for upcoming planting activities in the Sigiria Block, targeting an additional 4,000 seedlings.

Among the attendees were FKF Board Members led by Prof. Karanja Njoroge, Chantal Mariotte,Sanzi Dietz, community members, forest scouts, Karura Station Manager, and Mrs. Kenya Forest 2025, among others.

By Getrude Rop,

Admin Assistant, KFEET.