The Project

50 trees were planted on my behalf when I joined as an "Advocate for Change" and 50 trees will be planted when you join too!

Trees for the Future: Kenya Project


Overview of Social and Environmental Issues

Poaching in the National Parks close to Somalia and Ethiopia has been increasing in recent years and the Kenya Wildlife Service may close those parks because of the danger and expense. There has been extensive deforestation for firewood and other uses. Only 3% of Kenya's original forest remains. There has been extensive cutting of native hardwood species by carvers and carpenters.

In early 2008 Kenya was encompassed by post-election violence, primarily in Western Kenya. The issues have not been resolved, despite the violence ending. Kenyans understand the importance of tree planting and there are many groups and individuals who want to work with Trees for the Future. There is population pressure on the arable land in Central and Western Kenya.



The Response

Kenya has large projects throughout Central and Western Kenya. There are several demonstration farms that are being developed to educate local communities on sustainable agriculture and agroforestry. There are several reforestation projects in and near protected forests, such as Mount Kenya, and Kakamega Forest Reserve. Trees for the Future is working with several women's groups and some local trade schools.

2008 saw a large expansion of the Kenya Program. Many organizations are interested in the program and tree planting. In 2009, Trees for the Future has hired a Kenya Program Coordinator to implement projects throughout Kenya. The Kenya program projects focus on reforesting natural areas and working with local community organizations to provide economic opportunities for rural youths. Trees for the Future distributed 300,000 seedlings in 2008.

With your help and by joining us as an "Advocate for Change" we can all continue to support this project and Pledging for Change will be planting 50 trees on your behalf