Kamwosor Hosts Major Livelihood and Conservation Drive Ahead of Presidential Launch

 

By Wasike Elvis
In a bold move to blend environmental conservation with economic empowerment, residents of the Kipkabus Forest ecosystem in Kamwosor, Keiyo South, today received high-quality dairy cows and a variety of high-value crop seedlings in a transformative event under the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP).

The initiative—anchored on the Pesa Mfukoni (Money in Your Pocket) pillar—saw the distribution of avocado, mango, macadamia, coffee, and tree tomato seedlings alongside dairy cattle, with the aim of promoting sustainable livelihoods while preserving forest ecosystems.

The event comes just a day ahead of the official launch scheduled for July 12, 2025, to be officiated by President Dr. William Samoei Ruto at Simotwo Boys High School.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Principal Secretary at the National Treasury, underscored the importance of balancing conservation with prosperity.

“Environmental sustainability and financial prosperity must go hand in hand. Through KICP, we are investing in people and the planet, ensuring that future generations inherit both economic opportunities and healthy ecosystems,” he said.

Hon. Gladys Boss Shollei, Deputy Speaker and Uasin Gishu Woman Representative, praised the programme’s impact on rural communities:

“Empowering our rural communities with livestock and high-value crops is a game-changer, especially for women and youth. This initiative gives families the tools they need to thrive economically while protecting our natural heritage.”

Hon. Gideon Kimaiyo, MP for Keiyo South, noted that the region was poised for transformation:

“This is a proud day for Keiyo South. Our people are receiving not just inputs, but hope and opportunity. With this support, we are turning forests from points of conflict into sources of prosperity.”

The conservation angle was reinforced by Mr. Mohammed Awer, CEO of WWF-Kenya, who emphasized community involvement:

“Conservation is most successful when local communities are central to the process. WWF is proud to support this programme, which shows that economic empowerment and environmental protection can go hand in hand.”

Hon. Joseph Lagat, Chair of the KICP Planning Committee, described the initiative as a long-term vision:

“The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme represents a long-term vision—restoring landscapes while transforming lives. Today’s activities mark real progress toward that goal.”

On the forestry front, Mr. George Tarus, Forest Secretary, applauded the integrated approach to conservation:

 

“We are witnessing a shift in how we manage forest ecosystems—by involving local communities in restoration and ensuring they benefit from the resources they help conserve.”

Dr. Sally Kimosop, Environment Secretary, highlighted the climate resilience of the initiative:

“This event reflects Kenya’s strong commitment to climate-smart development. Planting tree crops and supporting agroforestry not only restore degraded lands but also strengthen rural economies.”

Mr. David Rono, Regional Conservator of Forests, added that empowering communities helps protect natural resources:

“By integrating conservation into local livelihoods, we reduce illegal activities in forests and promote stewardship. This is the future of forest management in Kenya.”

Development and private sector partners also expressed strong support. A Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) representative said:

“Today’s distribution supports food security, income generation, and ecological balance—key pillars for sustained regional growth.”

 

From the financial sector, Old Mutual Group reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable impact:

“We’re proud to be part of a partnership that’s making a tangible difference. As a financial institution, we believe in investing in people—and today we’re investing in Kenya’s future.”

The event marked a significant step forward in aligning environmental restoration with economic development—placing Keiyo South at the heart of Kenya’s vision for a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous future.