JICA Kenya co-exhibits with KEFRI at the World Desertification and Drought Day 2024

For nearly four decades, JICA has been a steadfast supporter of forestry development in Kenya. This collaboration involves the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry (MoECCF) and allied institutions, focusing on research, knowledge management, and dissemination. The recent World Desertification and Drought Day 2024, held on June 17 at OlKinyei Grounds, Doldol, Laikipia County, offered a glimpse of the achievements made possible through this partnership. The Chief Guest, Cabinet Secretary (CS) Soipan Tuya of MoECCF, along with the Laikipia County Governor, visited the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) booth to see their exhibitions and demonstrations.

The key highlight was the development of Melia volkensii , also known locally as Mukau . This indigenous tree is not only drought-tolerant but also commercially valuable, producing high-quality timber and other wood products like livestock fodder. KEFRI, with JICA's support, is conducting tree breeding programs for Melia. This species is considered a prime candidate for combating desertification and drought in Kenya's drylands. Dr. Eston Mutitu of KEFRI showcased the extraction of Melia seeds using a nutcracker and emphasized the importance of proper management for optimal timber quality.

The CS expressed her enthusiasm for these advancements, particularly as Kenya strives towards achieving 30% tree cover by 2032 through planting 15 billion trees. With over 80% of Kenyan land classified as drylands, Melia holds immense potential. While planting a Melia seedling at the event, the CS emphasized the need for community awareness and training on growing this tree. KEFRI, demonstrating its commitment, donated an additional 500 Melia seedlings for planting within the community ranch. Since Melia is a new introduction in Laikipia, the Rumuruti sub-center will take charge of raising them for future large-scale distribution and planting across the county.

JICA's support extends beyond breeding of Melia seedlings. The “ Project for Strengthening Forestry Sector Development and Community Resilience to Climate Change through Sustainable Forest Management and Landscape Restoration”-(SFS-CORECC) was also present at the event. Their booth displayed informative materials such as brochures on growing Melia, natural pastures, Aloe soap making, bitter gum production, dryland rehabilitation strategies, and utilizing Prosopis pods for animal feed – all relevant to the event's theme. Additionally, a book showcasing four decades of joint research and development efforts by KEFRI and JICA, alongside other JICA activities in Kenya, was exhibited.

JICA's commitment to Kenya's environmental well-being remains unwavering. They plan to continue supporting such developments and other interventions aimed at climate change adaptation, mitigation, and building resilience.