Forest restoration sparks a waterway renaissance
Nestled in the southern part of Nakuru North Subcounty in Nakuru County, Dundori Forest has long been a lifeline for its local community and an essential water catchment area. Yet, this vital landscape has been suffering.
Years of environmental degradation driven by high population pressure, unsustainable resource use, and limited capacity in natural resource management had pushed Dundori to a breaking point. Water sources were drying up, with the once-bountiful Mathare Stream dwindling to a mere trickle.
Recognizing the urgency, ITF, with funding from Ecologi, embarked on a transformative journey to restore Dundori Forest. Our project, “Enhancing Community Led Restoration and Livelihoods Improvement,” took a holistic approach. By addressing social, economic, and ecological factors, we aimed to not only restore the forest but also uplift the community's way of life. The baseline survey we conducted guided our actions, revealing the dire state of the forest and underscoring the need for immediate intervention.
Before restoration
Restoring Dundori: a forest revived
In just three years, the landscape has begun to heal. Together with local communities and the Kenya Forest Service, ITF has planted 600,000 indigenous trees in Dundori Forest, representing 11 different species.
These efforts have transformed what was once bare land into a thriving forest ecosystem. Community members have also been encouraged to plant 60,000 agroforestry trees, including fruit trees, on their farms, reducing the strain on forest resources.
After restoration
The ripple effect: Recharging the Mathare Stream
The rejuvenation of Dundori Forest has had a cascading effect on the ecosystem, particularly the Mathare Stream. Local residents recall a time when this stream was larger, providing water to the community and feeding into Lake Nakuru.
Over the years, it had diminished, but thanks to concerted restoration efforts, the stream has begun to recover, especially towards the end of 2023. The forest's renewed health has contributed to restoring water catchment areas and water towers, leading to increased rainfall and the recharging of the Mathare Stream.
Dundori's impact on Lake Nakuru
The recovery of the Mathare Stream is significant not just for Dundori but for the entire Nakuru region. This stream feeds into Lake Nakuru, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its flamingos and wildlife. By restoring Dundori Forest and revitalizing the Mathare Stream, we are helping sustain the lake's delicate ecosystem, which in turn supports the city of Nakuru and its biodiversity.
Empowering communities, sustaining ecosystems
Our work in Dundori goes beyond tree planting. We have increased community adherence to forest regulations through training and capacity-building sessions.
The distribution of energy-saving cook-stoves to 500 households has reduced the use of firewood, alleviating pressure on the forest and improving the health of beneficiaries by reducing indoor air pollution. With these interventions, we have not only restored a forest but also enhanced the livelihoods of the local community.
A journey of restoration and hope
Dundori Forest stands as a testament to the incredible impact that community-led restoration can have on ecosystems and human communities. Dundori has been transformed from a degraded landscape to a thriving forest, breathing new life into the Mathare Stream, Lake Nakuru, and the communities that rely on these waterways. Through these efforts, ITF is not only safeguarding vital natural resources but also creating a more sustainable future for all.
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