University of Nairobi at the Forefront of Kenya’s Land Restoration Efforts
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is a pivotal partner in the "Regreening for the Future" initiative, a collaborative project aimed at enhancing land restoration efforts across Kenya. This project, supported by a KSh 287 million grant from the Australian government through the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), seeks to equip researchers and farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop sustainable regreening strategies adaptable to changing climate conditions.
As a leading academic institution, UoN brings extensive research expertise and a deep understanding of Kenya's environmental landscape to the partnership. The university's involvement focuses on several key areas:
Research and Development: UoN researchers will engage in studies to explore effective adaptation strategies that enhance community-driven regreening initiatives. This includes investigating policies and support systems that empower communities to restore degraded landscapes, thereby improving food security and building resilience against climate change.
Capacity Building: The university will play a crucial role in training both researchers and farmers. By disseminating knowledge on sustainable land management practices, UoN aims to foster the development of skills necessary for implementing successful restoration projects.
Policy Advocacy: Leveraging its academic influence, UoN will contribute to the formulation of policies that support large-scale land restoration efforts. This involves collaborating with governmental and non-governmental organizations to create an enabling environment for sustainable practices.
The "Regreening for the Future" project is a synergistic effort that brings together multiple esteemed organizations, including: Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI): Leading the initiative with a focus on research and implementation strategies. World Vision Kenya and World Vision Australia: Providing community outreach and mobilization to ensure the project's grassroots impact. Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR-ICRAF): Offering expertise in forestry research and sustainable practices. United Nations University: Contributing global perspectives and research support to the initiative.
This initiative aligns with Kenya's ambitious objectives to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded land and increase tree cover to 32% by 2032, as outlined in the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100) and the Bonn Challenge. UoN's participation underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and its pivotal role in driving research and policy development in line with national and global restoration targets.
Through its active involvement in the "Regreening for the Future" project, the University of Nairobi continues to demonstrate leadership in environmental research and community engagement. The collaborative efforts of UoN and all the partners are poised to make significant contributions to sustainable land management practices, ultimately fostering a more resilient and food-secure Kenya.
