The Maragoli Hills in Vihaga, western Kenya, are a 400-hectare forest that sustains a population of 2.7 million people.
However, deforestation and degradation, beginning with colonization over a century ago, have severely impacted the region.
This has not only harmed local communities but also contributed to global biodiversity loss and increased atmospheric carbon levels.
Recognizing the urgent need for restoration, the Global Greengrants Fund partnered with the Catholic Diocese of Kakamega in 2020 to initiate a forest rehabilitation project.
The project began with the establishment of a tree nursery using indigenous seeds, funded by Global Greengrants. This nursery served as a foundation for expanding efforts, with additional nurseries built in collaboration with schools and community spaces.
The initiative not only focused on planting trees but also educated communities on the importance of reforestation and sustainable land stewardship. This approach strengthened community resilience, restored ecological balance, and contributed to global climate change mitigation by capturing carbon from the atmosphere.
The Catholic Diocese of Kakamega engaged local communities by involving multiple generations, with elders sharing their memories of the landscape’s past richness. This fostered a sense of responsibility and connection to the land.
The project also prioritized education, training teachers and students on the benefits of reforestation and nursery management. Over 100 educational institutions have been involved, transforming schools into “green hubs” where students enjoy cooler air and peaceful green spaces.
Despite challenges like funding constraints, the project has made significant strides. Communities are now more connected to the forest, and the initiative has inspired broader environmental awareness through radio talks and community engagement. The project has also demonstrated that communities can coexist with forests while meeting their needs sustainably.
Looking ahead, the Catholic Diocese of Kakamega plans to establish four more satellite nurseries, further engage schools through creative environmental programs, and explore alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on firewood.
Global Greengrants continues to support these efforts, emphasizing the importance of sustained community engagement and funding for long-term success.
