Cherangany Hills Initiative Launches with Peace Race and Tree Planting Drive

Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kipchumba Murkomen has hailed the successful launch activities of the Cherangany Hills Ecosystem Restoration for Livelihood Improvement, Sustainability and Harmony (CHERISH) initiative, describing the programme as a transformative step towards environmental conservation, community empowerment and youth development.

Speaking during the inaugural Cherangany Hills Peace and Conservation Race held at the edge of Embobut Forest, Murkomen said the CHERISH initiative is anchored on five key pillars: ecosystem restoration and climate resilience, community empowerment, education and knowledge management, sports and talent development, and resource mobilisation.

The event brought together leaders, athletes, environmental stakeholders and members of the local community from the four counties that make up the Cherangany Hills ecosystem.

Murkomen noted that the region has historically produced world-renowned athletics champions, making sports a powerful avenue for promoting peace, nurturing talent and uniting communities around environmental conservation efforts.

“To mark this important occasion, we planted trees on the edge of Embobut Forest, one of the 22 gazetted forests in the Cherangany Hills ecosystem, reaffirming our commitment to restoring degraded ecosystems and combating climate change,” he said.

In the women’s 10-kilometre race, Catherine Relin emerged victorious, followed by Vivian Cheruiyot in second place and Sharon Cherotich in third.

The men’s 10-kilometre race was won by Mathew Kimeli, with Caleb Majasi finishing second and Rodgers Plimo taking third place.

In the women’s 5KM category, Philaries Chepkorir claimed first position ahead of Dorcas Yego and Joan Korir.

The men’s 5KM race saw Timothy finish first, followed by Rodgers Maiyo and Oscar Chesir.

Murkomen congratulated all the winners and participants for making the event a success and demonstrating the strong connection between sports, peacebuilding and environmental stewardship.

The event was graced by Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Ida Odinga, who served as the Chief Guest, while multiple world and Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon attended as the Race Ambassador.

Other leaders present included Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, Wisley Rotich, Members of Parliament William Kisang, Caroline Ng'elechei and Titus Lotee, Principal Secretary Festus Ng'eno, and OKM Foundation Chairperson Gladys Kipchumba.

County Commissioners David Kosgei of Elgeyo-Marakwet and David Saruni of West Pokot were also among the government officials who attended the event.