This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
Published on June 8, 2020, the government has made significant strides in reclaiming Kirisia/Leroghi forest in Samburu County. Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko led an expansive tour of the forest to assess the status and progress made so far in its reclamation.
CS Tobiko noted that within six months, the healing of the critical ecosystem is already evident with natural regeneration, river/spring flowing, and the evident presence of wildlife. The forest, which is one of the largest in the country, spans over 91,944 hectares.
During a tree planting exercise launched in December 2019, families that had not vacated the forest were given 30 days to leave or face eviction. CS Tobiko spearheaded the exercise, where a total of 11,000 seedlings were planted.
CS Tobiko lauded the residents for leaving the water tower that is a source of ten rivers and of utmost importance to the Ewaso Nyiro Ecosystem. He also appreciated the critical role frontline forest officers play in forest conservation, management, and protection.
CS Tobiko and Chief Conservator of Forests Julius Kamau spent a night in the wild at KFS Rangers Camp in Lekamoru, Samburu County, where they appreciated the tranquility, peace, and serenity forests have to offer, including the immense eco-tourism potential and biodiversity that thrives when forest ecosystems are well conserved.
