KFS Opens KSh75 Million GreenZones Resource Centre, Reaffirms Commitment to Forest Conservation

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The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has officially launched the GreenZones Development Support Project II Resource Centre, a KSh75 million facility funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB), in a major step towards strengthening forest conservation and sustainable environmental management in Kenya.

The facility was officially opened by the Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, who said the new resource centre will enhance conservation efforts, build community capacity, and support environmental education.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Lemarkoko noted that KFS has continued to recruit foresters to strengthen its conservation mandate while working closely with local communities, women groups, and tree nursery operators. He said the Service procures tree seedlings from community groups, creating income-generating opportunities while promoting the country's tree-growing campaign.

The Conservator pledged that KFS would continue working closely with faith-based organizations and other stakeholders in advancing both environmental conservation and community development initiatives.

Looking ahead to the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, Mr. Lemarkoko urged Kenyans to embrace tree planting across all ecosystems, including urban areas, institutions, and even cemeteries, emphasizing that every available space should contribute to increasing the country's forest cover.

He also defended ongoing forest protection measures, including the fencing of key forest ecosystems, saying the initiative followed environmental impact assessments and extensive consultations with communities and local leaders. He explained that while access to forests would continue through designated entry and exit points, fencing is necessary to secure forests from illegal activities while safeguarding community rights as provided under the Constitution and the Forest Conservation and Management Act.

Mr. Lemarkoko further announced that KFS is establishing an airstrip in the Mau Forest Complex to enhance aerial surveillance, improve firefighting capabilities, and strengthen protection of Kenya's forests.

He affirmed that KFS remains committed to implementing projects that safeguard the country's natural resources, calling on Kenyans to support conservation initiatives aimed at protecting forests for future generations.

The GreenZones Development Support Project II Resource Centre is expected to serve as a hub for conservation research, training, environmental awareness, and community engagement, further strengthening Kenya's efforts to achieve sustainable forest management and climate resilience.

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