Enoosopukia Adopt – a – Forest Project: A Collaborative Approach to Conservation of Enoosupukia Forest in Narok County
The Enoosupukia Forest, a critical part of the Mau Forest Complex (MFC), is among Kenya’s largest closed-canopy forest areas. Managed by the County Government of Narok, this 11,700-hectare indigenous forest is facing severe threats due to human-induced pressures such as irregular land allocations, agriculture, charcoal burning, and illegal logging. These activities have drastically reduced the forest cover from 76% in 1997 to just 16% in 2017.
The Enoosupukia Forest is crucial for KenGen’s renewable power generation, recharging groundwater aquifers for Olkaria Geothermal operations and serving as a water catchment for the Sondu Miriu river. KenGen’s vision to lead in reliable, quality, and sustainable energy aligns with the urgent need to restore and protect this vital ecosystem. This project reflects our commitment to environmental sustainability, addressing climate change, and empowering local communities.
Project Description
The Enoosupukia Forest Adoption Project aims to counteract deforestation while enhancing community livelihoods and leveraging carbon financing to protect a key water catchment area. This initiative will restore forest cover, provide community resources, and strengthen local relationships. In February 2024, KenGen Foundation signed an MoU with the County Government of Narok to commence restoration efforts on 50 hectares of the forest. This collaboration is about more than planting trees; it’s about building a resilient and thriving community.
Project Objectives
- Scale up conservation efforts: Implement Afforestation, Reforestation, and Revegetation (ARR) initiatives to restore the Enoosupukia Forest.
- Enhance governance and management: Build the capacity of local communities to form a robust Community Forest Association.
- Improve community livelihoods: Promote skills in nature-based and forest-related enterprise value chains, such as beekeeping.
Expected Outcomes
- Forest Conservation: 11,700 hectares of the Enoosupukia Forest conserved.
- Community Empowerment: Formation of the Enoosupukia Community Forest Association.
- Enterprise Development: Establishment of user groups in various nature-based and forest-related enterprises.
- Renewable Energy Contribution: Support for Olkaria and Sondu Power plants, generating a combined 773.13 MW.
- Water Catchment Protection: Ensuring sustained water supply for hydropower generation.
- Biodiversity and Environmental Regulation: Enhancing microclimate regulation, soil erosion control, and agricultural support for downstream communities.
- Tourism and Recreation: Promoting eco-tourism and recreational activities, contributing to local and national economies.
Partner with us
By supporting the Enoosupukia Forest Adoption Project, partners will play a pivotal role in environmental conservation and community development. This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to sustainable development goals, particularly climate action and quality education. Sponsors will be recognized for their contributions to preserving a critical ecosystem, fostering community resilience, and promoting renewable energy solutions.
We invite individuals, corporations, development agencies, community groups, and all stakeholders of goodwill to join us in conserving this vital forest resource. The Enoosupukia Forest Adoption Project is a testament to the power of collective action in driving positive environmental and social change. Together, we can protect and nurture the Enoosupukia Forest, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.