The project, co-financed by AICS, is located in the Mau forest complex, the largest forest area in Kenya, with an area of 400,000 ha and approx. 7,000,000 inhabitants. It is the source of 12 rivers that support the delicate systems of the Masai Mara and Serengeti and of the Victoria, Nakuro and Baringo lakes.

Since the 1970s, there has been a continuous forest dilapidation with a reduction of over 100,000 ha. Across the country, the forest area decreased from 12.5% in 1963 to 2% in 2008, mainly due to population growth: on the other hand, the forest is a source of fuel for 86% of the population.

These dynamics intertwine with the now visible effects of climate change. The recurring droughts and floods, combined with widespread poverty, excessive dependence on rainfed agriculture, increase the vulnerability of communities, especially of disadvantaged people who depend on natural resources.

After 3 years of drought, Kenya is experiencing a rainy season characterized by very strong and abnormal rainfall. The latest tragedy occurred in May 2018 in the county of Nakuru, where a private dam collapsed due to the incessant rainfall, killing more than 40 people, almost half of whom were children.

As part of the project, Mani Tese, together with the local partner Necofa, faced these emergencies (due to climate change and deforestation) through a series of activities carried out in collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service and with the local communities.

Here’s what we did thanks to your help.

The goal of the 3-year project was to increase the protection of the environment in the Mau forest by improving the living conditions of local populations, who were involved in resource management processes, access to renewable energy and development of sustainable economic activities with high social value.

Particular attention was paid to some disadvantaged categories, such as women, young people and indigenous communities.

1. Implementation of the participatory forest management plan.

The contribution of the local community associations was fundamental, suitably trained and assisted. It culminated in an agreement with the government authorities responsible for forest management.

2. Implementation of the water basin management plan.

The goal was the conservation of water resources in the Ndoinet area, which are fundamental for both upstream and downstream communities. With the help of experts, priorities and intervention strategies were defined.

3. Realization of a mapping of biodiversity and risk areas.

It aimed at identifying environmental and socio-economic problems and highlighting the potential to be exploited.

4. Reforestation and consolidation of the banks to combat erosion.

1,000,000 seedlings were planted.

5. Diffusion of improved stoves.

These are 12,000 stoves, two per family, which reduced the need for firewood as well as the collection work, normally reserved for younger women.

6. Construction of 2 solar kiosks for public utility services.

Working with a 1 kw photovoltaic system, they allowed public services such as street lighting, mobile phone recharging, photocopies, etc.

7. Construction of 5 solar systems for schools and dispensaries.

These are 0.5 kw photovoltaic systems for as many schools and annexed health centers.

8. Construction of 31 biogas plants.

They worked with the manure of as many pig farms, part of the project (see points 12 13 below).

9. Start-up of 2 companies for the marketing and maintenance of photovoltaic systems.

It involved 30 young people and also tooke care of small LED circuits (torches, lamps, signs, etc.) made with recycled materials.

10. Start-up of a company for the sale of improved stoves.

After a first phase of marketing only, the opportunity for direct production was explored.

11. Construction of 3 forest nurseries.

They served for present and future reforestation activities and as a source of income.

12. Start-up of a pig breeding company.

Pork meat is currently a rapidly growing market in Kenya. A center was built for the reproduction of animals, their marketing and the training of breeders. It began with an endowment of 45 sows and 5 boars.

13. Start-up of 30 community groups for pig breeding.

750 people were involved, trained at the previous center (see point 12), which also provided veterinary checks, feed supply and marketing.

16. Construction of a honey collection and marketing center.

It is the forest quality honey with organic certification, in great demand. Improved training and hives were provided. The initiative affected ca. 200 beekeepers.

15. Water purification kit.

Due to the flooding of many wells and the destruction of the latrines due to the recent rainfall that affected the country, a problem of water contamination was faced in the Molo area. To remedy this situation, we have provided families with water purification kits.