NEMA Backs Mau Forest Restoration Drive as President Ruto Launches Integrated Conservation Programme

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Chairman, Emilio Mugo, and Director General, Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS, on Monday joined H.E. Dr. William Ruto, C.G.H., President of the Republic of Kenya, during the launch of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP) in Kuresoi North, Nakuru County.

The ambitious 10-year programme aims to restore 33,138 hectares of forest and 668.7 hectares of wetlands, establish buffer zones, secure forest boundaries, and support local communities through livelihood enhancement initiatives. The programme also incorporates environmental education, sustainable landscape management, and the inaugural Mau Conservation Marathon, held on October 24, 2025.

Under the visionary leadership of NEMA Director General, Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS, the Authority has continued to play a pivotal role in national restoration efforts. NEMA has so far adopted and restored 10 hectares of the Marindas Block within the Eastern Mau Complex, where 10,000 trees have already been planted as part of the ongoing forest rehabilitation efforts.

The MFC-ICLIP, spearheaded by the Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, has already achieved significant milestones — with 200 hectares restored through tree growing and 667.5 hectares adopted under the Adopt-a-Forest initiative.

The project is a key pillar of the Government’s 15 Billion Tree Growing Initiative, which seeks to expand the country’s forest cover and strengthen climate resilience by 2032.