Kaptagat communities back fencing of fully restored forest

Residents say the forest, which had suffered years of degradation caused by overgrazing, forest fires and unsustainable use, is gradually recovering following conservation interventions under the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme.

Elijah Kisabey, a resident of Kaptagat, said the community has witnessed significant improvements since conservation efforts intensified.

"Previously, large sections of the forest had been destroyed and many areas had been affected by fires. Today we are seeing the benefits of protecting the forest," he said.

Kisabey cited the return of clean water sources as one of the major gains from forest restoration efforts.

"We now have clean water flowing from the natural forest and we are very happy about it," he said.

He noted that communities previously relied heavily on forest grazing, with large numbers of livestock being taken into the ecosystem, but said residents now recognise the long-term benefits of conservation.

"We want development and that is why we are protecting our forest. We want future generations to benefit from it and for that to happen, it must be protected," he said.

Electric works begin at fully restored block of Kaptagat Forest 

Gladys Chebiwott, a resident of Mokwo, said fencing the forest is expected to create additional economic opportunities for local communities through tourism and beekeeping.

If the forest is protected, wildlife will return and attract visitors to this area. We will also benefit from activities such as beekeeping and earn income from honey production," she said.

She added that improved management of the forest would also support livestock farmers through increased availability of fodder.

The support from communities reflects the approach adopted by the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme, which was launched in 2017 to address both forest degradation and the livelihood challenges facing forest-adjacent communities.

The programme focuses on four thematic areas: environmental restoration, access to clean water, clean energy solutions and improved household incomes.

Programme officials say the approach aims to reduce dependence on forest resources by providing communities with sustainable alternatives while strengthening conservation efforts.

Kaptagat Forest, which spans the Kaptagat, Penon, Sabor, Kessup, Kipkabus and Elgeyo forest blocks, is one of Kenya's critical water towers and supports thousands of livelihoods in the region.