Kenyan government has launched a major reforestation initiative in Mukogodo Forest in Laikipia County, even as security agencies prepare a coordinated operation to remove bandits who have long used the area as a hideout.
Officials say at least 10,000 trees have been planted over the past two weeks across sections of the 74,000-acre indigenous forest. The area has faced increasing degradation due to illegal settlements and destruction of tree cover by armed, migrating herders.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the campaign is part of Kenya’s broader plan to grow 15 billion trees by 2032.
Wildlife Principal Secretary Silvia Museiya described Mukogodo as one of Kenya’s largest dry forests and a critical wildlife corridor. The forest connects the Mount Kenya ecosystem to northern rangelands such as Samburu County.
The ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including buffaloes, leopards and more than 200 bird species. Conservationists warn that continued degradation could disrupt migration patterns and threaten biodiversity.
Security operation underway
During a recent visit, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Abdi Hassan ordered all individuals residing illegally داخل the forest to vacate immediately.
The directive comes ahead of a planned multi-agency security operation aimed at restoring order in the region and preventing further environmental destruction.
Authorities say the operation will target armed groups blamed for years of insecurity in the area.
The reforestation drive is being spearheaded by the Department of Wildlife under the Tourism Ministry, in partnership with local Community Forest Associations, schools and the Yiaku community.
The Yiaku, a minority indigenous group, have historically depended on the forest for their livelihoods and are now playing a central role in restoration efforts.
Officials say similar reforestation programs are underway in other forests, including Lariak, Chepalungu, Oloitoktok and Nyandarua, as part of the nationwide campaign.
