TREE HARVESTING VS DEFORESTATION

CYPRESS: FROM SEED TO MATURITY | PART ONE Every great tree begins with a small seed! Discover how Kenya Forest Service (KFS) oversees the journey of Cypress trees from seed selection and nursery care to planting, growth and maturity—and why planned harvesting is part of sustainable commercial forestry. Stay tuned for Part Two! #KFS #SustainableForestry #Cypress #TreeGrowing #15BillionTreesBy2032

CLARIFICATION ON FOREST PLANTATION HARVESTING IN NGONG HILLS FOREST The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has noted video clips and photographs circulating on social media alleging illegal logging in Ngong Hills Forest, with claims that the activities are being carried out at night. The Service wishes to clarify the circumstances surrounding the ongoing forest plantation harvesting operations. Harvesting of mature forest plantations in the Kibiku Forest Block of Ngong Hills Forest is being undertaken following a competitive bidding process and the subsequent award of a tender for the harvesting of 56 hectares of mature plantations, in accordance with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act 2015, the Forest Conservation and Management Act 2026 (FCMA 2026), the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and forest harvesting rules (2016). Furthermore, forest operations are required to be conducted between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., as stipulated under the FCMA 2026. Upon completion of the harvesting process, the Community Forest Association is normally engaged to replant more trees through the Plantation Enterprise and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS). Regarding the photograph circulating on social media showing a trailer loaded with logs, the Service has received information that the vehicle had broken down and was undergoing repairs. KFS is verifying the circumstances surrounding the incident. The photograph alone does not establish that harvesting activities were taking place at night. The Service urges members of the public to seek clarification from the nearest KFS station on any concerns regarding forest management and harvesting activities. KFS urges the public to rely on verified information when commenting on the matter and to report all suspicious activities to the nearest police station for investigations or email [email protected]

KFS WINS BIG AT THE AA ROAD SAFETY EXCELLENCE AWARDS The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) tonight has been recognised for its commitment to road safety, winning the Best Driver Safety and Wellness Award at the AA Road Safety Excellence Awards Gala Dinner. The award was received by the Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko. The Service also emerged as First Runner-Up in the Logistics Institution in Road Safety Award, further demonstrating its commitment to promoting road safety within its operations. Organised by AA Kenya, the prestigious gala celebrated individuals, organisations and institutions making a lasting impact on road safety across the country. KFS was represented at the event by the Manager, Corporate Communications, Ms. Anne Kaari; Head of Protocol, Mr. Wilson Tonkei; and a team from the Administration Office led by the Chief Administration Officer, Ms. Judy Watta. These recognitions underscore the importance of responsible road use, safety awareness and institutional commitment to protecting lives on our roads. Congratulations to the KFS team. Together, let us keep our roads safe and protect every life. #KFS #RoadSafety #AAKenya #RoadSafetyExcellenceAwards

CCF APPEARS BEFORE NYANDARUA COURT IN PLANTATION FOREST HARVESTING CASE @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today appeared before Hon. Justice Mugo Kamau of the Environment and Land Court (ELC) in Nyandarua in proceedings concerning a case seeking to halt the harvesting of mature forest plantation material by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). During the proceedings, the CCF apprised the Court of the management of plantation forests, outlining the process from seedling production, planting and maintenance to maturity, harvesting and re-establishment. He also explained the defining characteristics of plantation forests and the management practices governing their development and sustainable utilisation. The Court scheduled the next hearing for 11 November 2026. The CCF was accompanied by Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (DCCF) Dr. Thomas Kiptoo, Regional Forest Conservator (RFC) Monica Ndirangu, County Forest Conservator (CFC) Daniel Nkung’ and members of the KFS legal team.

READY WHEN THE RAINS ARE! As the October–December short rains gradually settle in, Karura Forest is preparing for successful forest restoration through nursery readiness, site preparation, species selection, community mobilisation and post-planting care. With rainfall expected to intensify, planting will be guided by adequate soil moisture to enhance seedling survival and minimise losses. Through the Government’s 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme, Kenya aims to achieve 30% tree cover by 2032. Karura is ready. Plant when the soil is moist, nurture every seedling and grow a greener Kenya. #JazaMiti #TreesForBetterLives

Isuzu East Africa Foundation Boosts Ranger Welfare at Muumandu Forest Station Isuzu East Africa Foundation has handed over a rangers’ housing project at Muumandu Forest Station in Machakos County, marking another milestone in its partnership with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in forest conservation and restoration.The project comprises four staff houses and sanitation facilities aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of forest rangers, who play a critical role in protecting and managing forest resources. The Chief Guest, Mr Charles Kariuki, Director of @IsuzuEastAfrica and Isuzu East Africa Foundation, emphasised the importance of taking responsibility for the environment and being good stewards of natural resources. He highlighted the strong partnership between Isuzu East Africa, the Government of Kenya and KFS, noting that environmental conservation is one of the foundation’s key pillars. He reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to further collaboration in support of forest conservation. The RFC Eastern ,Mr Antony Musyoka highlighted the collaborative framework that enabled the project, noting that improved staff housing and sanitation facilities would enhance ranger welfare and support effective forest protection. He also recognised the foundation’s significant contribution to forest restoration and rehabilitation. County Forest Conservator (CFC) Machakos, Madam Milcah Mutua, appreciated Isuzu East Africa Foundation for its continued support in improving Muumandu Forest Station. She highlighted previous initiatives, including support for the development of a tree nursery, forest restoration programmes and the drilling of a borehole, noting that the housing project further strengthens these efforts. The event concluded with a ceremonial tree-planting exercise, reaffirming the shared commitment of Isuzu East Africa Foundation and KFS to environmental stewardship, forest restoration and sustainable forest management.

KFS BAND JOINS PS FORESTRY FOR THE OPENING OF NKUENE HEALTH CENTRE MATERNITY WING The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Band joined national and county leaders during the official opening of the maternity wing at Uruku Health Centre in Nkuene Ward, Meru County. The facility was contructed and equipped by Mpesa foundation,to improve access to maternal and newborn healthcare services in the region. The event was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary @MOH_Kenya, @HonAdenDuale.The ceremony was attended by the Principal Secretary @Forestry__Kenya, @GMugambi_CBS, the Governor of Meru County, Hon. Isaac Mutuma M’Ethingia; the Deputy Governor, Hon. Linda Kiome; the Principal Secretary for Health, Dr. Ouma Olunga; and the Principal Secretary for cooperatives , Patrick Kilemi. Also present were the County Forest Conservator Meru County, Wellington Ndaka, representatives of the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), Safaricom representatives and other stakeholders. The KFS Band entertained guests with captivating musical performances, adding colour and vibrancy to the occasion. Through its performances, the band continues to showcase the Service’s institutional identity and contribute to the success of national and county events. During the event, the Principal Secretary for Forestry, Mugambi Gitonga, flagged off the distribution of 20,000 Hass avocado seedlings to promote tree growing, environmental conservation and economic empowerment among local communities. The initiative contributes to the Government’s 15 billion trees agenda by 2032, aimed at increasing Kenya’s tree cover and restoring degraded landscapes. The participation of the Kenya Forest Service in the event underscored its commitment to working with government institutions, county leadership and other stakeholders to advance environmental conservation and sustainable development. By promoting the planting of economically valuable tree species, KFS continues to support community livelihoods while contributing to the national tree-growing agenda.

KFS RANGERS UNDERGO SECURITY SENSITISATION TRAINING IN MAU REGION Seventy Kenya Forest Service (KFS) rangers drawn from stations across the Mau Region have undergone security sensitisation training aimed at strengthening discipline, security awareness, communication, and health among forest enforcement personnel. The training covered the chain of command and discipline, access control, physical security, awareness and prevention of HIV and other communicable diseases, radio communication procedures, and the effective use of communication equipment. Officers were also sensitised on the provisions of the KFS Human Resource Policy and Procedures Manual, 2020, regarding the use of social media while in uniform. The workshop further emphasised the use of modern technology in forest fire detection and surveillance, alongside adherence to established service procedures in the execution of official duties. The Regional Commandant, who officially opened the training on behalf of the Regional Forest Conservator, urged officers, non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and rangers to maintain discipline and strictly observe service protocols as they discharge their mandate of protecting and conserving forests. The participants were drawn from Nakuru, Kericho, Narok and Baringo counties. Key facilitators included SP Philip Ndiema, Deputy Manager, Fire and Disaster Management; CI Benard Ngeywo, Nakuru County Commander; CI Mathew Chirchir, Chief Security Officer at KFS Headquarters and Mr. Gevonce Ooyi from the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council among others. Also in attendance were Baringo County Commander CI James Kesio, Kericho County Commander IP Amos Keitany, and CI Jennifer Tompoi from the Nakuru Command Centre. The training reaffirmed KFS's commitment to enhancing staff preparedness, professionalism and operational effectiveness in safeguarding the country's forest resources.

TAPPING INTO POWER OF MUSIC TO ADVANCE FOREST CONSERVATION Music and art are powerful tools for preserving cultural heritage, inspiring environmental action and mobilising young people to participate in nation-building. By engaging creatives, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) seeks to make tree growing and forest conservation more relatable and impactful. Today, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko hosted renowned Laisamis music maestro Lonyugu Leparikeri, popularly known as Supa Ramos, who paid him a courtesy call and extended an invitation to the official launch of his music, which promotes cultural preservation, peace and environmental conservation. KFS remains committed to partnering with young people and creatives to amplify conservation messages and advance the 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme towards 30% tree cover by 2032.

STRENGTHENING PERFORMANCE ACCOUNTABILITY Delivering on institutional commitments requires more than setting targets; it demands measurable results, accountable leadership and a sustained commitment to serving citizens. The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) is strengthening its performance management framework to enhance efficiency, promote a culture of accountability and ensure that institutional commitments translate into tangible outcomes in forest conservation, environmental sustainability and public service delivery. As part of these efforts, the @CCF_Kenya (CCF) Mr. Alex Lemarkoko today chaired a mock evaluation of the Service’s 2025/2026 Financial Year Performance Contract Annual Progress Report at KFS Headquarters. The exercise brought together members of the Senior Management Team and the Secretariat to review reported achievements and verify supporting evidence ahead of the annual evaluation scheduled for 30 October 2026. The CCF urged officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct, challenging them to use their respective offices to deliver quality services to citizens and advance the Service’s mandate of conserving, developing and sustainably managing forest resources. “Every officer must use the responsibility entrusted to them to serve Kenyans diligently and ensure that our commitments translate into measurable results. Our collective performance must strengthen public service delivery, advance forest conservation and accelerate progress towards 30% tree cover by 2032,” he said. He further emphasised the need to align departmental performance targets with the 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme, noting that effective implementation of institutional commitments is critical to expanding national tree cover and safeguarding forest resources for future generations.

*KFS HOSTS FOURTH COORDINATION MEETING AHEAD OF NATIONAL JOINT THANKSGIVING SERVICE The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) today hosted the fourth meeting of the National Coordinating Committee for the National Joint Thanksgiving Service for Uniformed Disciplined Services and their families, scheduled for 7th November 2026. The meeting focused on consolidating preparations, fine-tuning logistical arrangements and finalizing key budgetary considerations to ensure a well-coordinated event. Representatives from the seven participating services KFS, KWS, KPS, APS, DCI, Kenya Prisons Service and NYS  assessed the status of planned activities, reviewed departmental commitments and deliberated on outstanding financial and operational requirements. The discussions provided an opportunity to align priorities, address pending issues and establish clear next steps as preparations enter their final phase. Chairing the meeting on behalf of the National Coordinating Committee Chairman, Dr. Clement Ng’oriareng’, Mr. Patrick Namagwa guided members through the outstanding action points, calling for accountability, clarity in resource allocation and timely completion of assigned responsibilities. He challenged the respective teams to translate the progress made into concrete deliverables, noting that effective coordination and prudent use of resources would be critical to the successful execution of the national service. National Coordinator Fr. Paul Miring’u commended members for sustaining the planning process and called for increased participation by officers from all the services in the ongoing rehearsals, which had commenced. He emphasized that the rehearsals are essential in synchronizing the programme and ensuring that every participating service is adequately prepared for the occasion. He urged service representatives to mobilize their teams and turn out in large numbers for the remaining practice sessions. As the countdown to 7th November continues, the committee is shifting its focus from planning to execution, with attention now centred on closing outstanding gaps and ensuring that all teams are ready for the day. The upcoming service will provide an opportunity for officers and their families to come together in thanksgiving, recognizing the sacrifices, dedication and collective responsibility that define service to the nation.

FRENCH AMBASSADOR VISITS KESSUP FOREST, LAUNCHES UPGRADE OF KIPTINGO PRIMARY SCHOOL PLAYGROUND French Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Wadid Benaabou, yesterday visited Kessup Forest and Kiptingo Primary School in Elgeyo Marakwet County, where he officially launched a project to upgrade the school’s playground to World Athletics Championships standards. The project will involve improvements to the football field and the construction of volleyball and basketball courts. It will also feature a 1-kilometre athletics loop equipped with Wavelight technology, which is expected to be the first of its kind in Africa. Kiptingo Primary School had applied to the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) for a Special Use Licence (SUL) to undertake the project on land bordering the forest. The Chief Conservator of Forests granted early entry pending the regularisation of the licence. During the visit, Ambassador Benaabou thanked community members, KFS and other partners for their collaboration in bringing the project to fruition. He noted that Kenya is internationally recognised for its sporting talent and expressed confidence that the upgraded facilities would play a significant role in nurturing the next generation of athletes. The Ambassador pledged to return in March 2027 to officially commission the completed project. He was accompanied by Mr. Michael Kibiwott, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Sports, Youth Affairs, Culture, Children and Social Services, who represented the Governor; Madam Purity Koima, Regional Coordinator of the Integrated Natural Resource Management Programme (INReMP); Mr. Richard Guya, County Forest Conservator, Elgeyo Marakwet; Madam Belinda, Kessup Forest Station Manager, and KFS staff. Other participants included members of the Keiyo North Sub-County Security Committee, National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), the Kiptingo Primary School fraternity and local residents. Mr. Guya emphasised the importance of promoting athletics alongside forest conservation, noting that sustainable management of forest resources would enable local communities to benefit from them while safeguarding the environment for future generations.

KFS, 748 AIR SERVICES SIGN FOREST RESTORATION PARTNERSHIP Public-private partnerships are key to mobilising resources, strengthening community participation and accelerating forest restoration. Through its Adopt-a-Forest Programme, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) continues to engage private sector players in restoring degraded forest ecosystems. Today, KFS and 748 Air Services signed a Framework for Collaboration to rehabilitate 10 acres of forest land in Ngong Hills Forest, Kajiado County. The[ agreement was signed by Chief @CCF_Kenya Mr. Alex Lemarkoko and @748AIR_SERVICES Managing Director Mr. Moses Mwangi. The partnership will support tree growing, ecosystem rehabilitation, biodiversity conservation and community awareness, with 748 Air Services committing to tree growing, protection and maintenance for three years. The initiative will contribute to Kenya’s target of achieving 30% tree cover by 2032. Through such collaborations, KFS continues to advance sustainable forest management and mobilise collective action towards a greener, more resilient Kenya.