Restoration and recovery in the forests of West Pokot

17 Sept

Written By Veronica Njeri, Communications Officer

Nestled in the scenic Kapenguria Forest Block of West Pokot, Kenya, a quiet transformation is unfolding.

Guided by Perur Rays of Hope, a Pokot community is breathing new life into the forest, in a project which aims to restore 200,000 trees and create a brighter future for everyone.

With ITF's support, community groups are bringing life to the forest and improving their lives. — A West Pokot community, Perur Rays of Hope, and ITF, working together to bring life to the forest.

Signs of recovery

Caroline, director of community organisation Perur Rays of Hope, brought together representatives from the community, local government, the Kenya Forest Service and the Community Forest Association. This was a time to reflect on the success of what we’ve done, to learn, and to plan for the road ahead.

West Pokot is a forest both rich in biodiversity and marked by many years of degradation. However, a recent survey revealed that through this project the community has already restored 20 hectares.

Signs of recovery, like the return of hyenas, are sparking hope.

Degraded land is being restored thanks to ITF projects — The recovering landscape of West Pokot

Tree cover in Kapenguria Ward has grown from 31% in 2017 to 35% in 2024, and in Siyoi Ward, from 39% to 54%. This is cause for celebration, especially as the local community are at the heart of incredible, positive change.

Beyond the trees, this project is transforming lives. It has improved food security for 4,000 people and diversified income sources for 1,300 low-income households. Though challenges remain, this Pokot community is on a path to a brighter future.

Celebration and forward planning

The workshop was not just a presentation of findings; it was a celebration of community empowerment.

It’s essential to involve local communities in conservation, and that involves new learning, new training, new skills, which empower communities to look after the forest and improve their lives. Technology plays a massive role - at the workshop, participants learned about new tools like GIS and satellite imagery, which they could use to help monitor and protect the forest.

ITF projects use the latest GIS and satellite technology to track reforestation — An example of satellite imagery being used to monitor restoration

The workshop was filled with dialogue and ideas. Community members voiced concerns about overgrazing and called for more ground verification and the inclusion of indigenous species in restoration efforts.

As the workshop concluded, there was a strong sense of determination and unity, with everybody dedicated to seeing the forest grow and flourish long into the future.

A story about people

This is not just a story about trees; it’s a story about people, communities coming together to protect their environment, and securing a better future for generations to come. It’s a story of hope, rooted in the rich soil of West Pokot, nourished by the collective efforts of all who believe in the power of restoration.