(Elgeyo Marakwet) – Residents of Marakwet West Sub County with forested land have been urged to register their properties with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to tap into financial support and conservation incentives. According to Laban Gitiba, the Cheptongei Forest Station Manager, this move can help landowners access funding from environmental organizations and companies involved in carbon credit programs.
Gitiba emphasized that registering with KFS could provide financial recognition for landowners’ roles in conserving the region’s forests. “Many residents in Marakwet West stand to gain from this opportunity. By registering with KFS, they can attract monetary support that acknowledges their contribution to forest conservation and environmental protection,” Gitiba said.
He commended previous generations for their efforts in preserving Marakwet’s valuable environmental resources but noted the growing challenges posed by those exploiting the forests for short-term benefits. “Our elders have been incredible stewards of our forests, but we are now facing new threats from those who exploit our resources without regard for the future,” Gitiba added.
Gitiba also issued a warning to individuals collaborating with outsiders to exploit forest resources illegally. “We are aware of unscrupulous individuals working with external businessmen to harvest cedar and podo trees or engage in illegal charcoal production in government-protected forests,” he said, stressing the importance of safeguarding the forests against such activities.
The call to register came during a sensitization meeting on managing Community Forest Associations (CFAs) at Kimnai Sub-location. Gitiba outlined plans to establish forest ranger camps at strategic locations to aid law enforcement in curbing illegal activities. These camps will help seal off smuggling routes commonly used to transport timber from the region.
Attendees raised concerns about outsiders enticing local youth to participate in illegal timber harvesting. Gitiba acknowledged these challenges and urged the community to offer alternative livelihoods to the youth. “We must give our young people options beyond timber poaching,” he said. “By planting fast-growing exotic tree species that are economically viable, we can create a sustainable income source that protects our natural heritage.”
Gitiba concluded by announcing that elections would soon be held at the sub-county level to select new leaders for the Community Forest Associations. This will lead to the formation of an umbrella CFA under the Cheptongei Forest Station, aimed at strengthening conservation efforts and ensuring community voices are heard in the protection of local forests.