Evelyn Kimathi Leads Dedan Kimathi Foundation in Ngong River Restoration

By John Kariuki

Evelyn Kimathi, CEO of the Dedan Kimathi Foundation, recently led her environment team in a tree-growing progress and monitoring evaluation along Ngong River at Chokaa in Ruai Division.

What started with minimal hope and immense resilience has now begun to show transformation. The river, once choked by solid waste due to encroachment of the riparian zone, is gradually roaring back, not yet with the cleanest water, but visibly better, cleaner, and closer to supporting life.

The Nairobi Rivers’ riparian areas have long been a major environmental concern due to rampant pollution. Evelyn and her team credit the National Government, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, for prioritizing the regeneration of these rivers.

Since 2023, the foundation has collaborated with key partners including the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Defence Forces, Thika Engineers Brigade and Kahawa Garrison-based Kenya Army Corps of Transport, CKL Africa Ltd, Seedballs Kenya, National Government Administration Officers and Climate Worx Initiative. Together they have grown assorted tree seedlings to create a protective buffer and conserve this critical area.

Growing these trees to the height shown in the photos has not been without hard work. Evelyn’s team has made countless visits to the site to replace dead trees while the Climate Worx Initiative has ensured round-the-clock monitoring to prevent stray livestock from browsing in the absence of fencing.

This is more than a project it is a story of dedication and passionate conservation. From confronting the lowest survival rates to witnessing a forest emerge, Evelyn’s efforts confirm that the foundation’s work was never in vain.

Through this initiative, the Dedan Kimathi Foundation is creating the DKF Green Legacy, protecting the country from the negative effects of climate change through sustainable tree growing for maximum carbon sinking.

Grow a tree and share it. Post a photo on social media using DKF Green Legacy to show your commitment to a greener future.