By Julius Kimani
The Cherangani Hills Forest ecosystem is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to the ‘Understanding Cherangani Links to Human Well-Being’ project. This initiative, funded by the Global Center on Biodiversity forClimate (GCBC), is empowering local youth to take the lead in conservation efforts while tackling pressing challenges such as biodiversity loss, poverty, and climate resilience. Nature Kenya is implementing the project as the lead in a partnership with the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), Kenyatta University, and the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). By combining traditional knowledge with scientific research, the project places young community members at the forefront of safeguarding nature and livelihoods.
Spanning approximately 100,000 hectares across Trans-Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet, and West Pokot counties, the Cherangani Hills Forest is a vital water catchment area between the Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana basins. Designated as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA), the forest provides invaluable ecosystem services, including clean water and cultural values. However, these benefits are under constant threat from deforestation, illegal encroachment, land fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change. Recognising that sustainable solutions must involve the community, the project is engaging local youth to help gather essential data that will shape future conservation strategies.
In May 2024, 34 young people were trained to use Kobo Collect, a mobile data collection tool, to assess ecosystem services and conduct Restoration Opportunity Assessments Methodology (ROAM). Through the workshop, participants developed skills in conducting interviews, recording observations, and ensuring data accuracy. Their role extends beyond data gathering—they are now key agents of change, bridging the gap between local communities and conservation efforts.
Collaborating with KEFRI, the project also trained 50 youth drawn from various groups, including Indigenous communities, Community Forest Associations (CFAs), and farmer groups. They were then assigned to conduct socio-economic surveys in forest blocks such as Kapyego, Chesoi, Kapolet, Kapkanyar, and Lelan. These surveys explored the impact of deforestation and land use changes on livelihoods, providing critical insights to inform Participatory Forest Management Plans (PFMPs).
The project’s impact extends beyond immediate benefits. Twelve youths participated in a rapid biodiversity assessment led by the National Museums of Kenya, where they collected data on plants, birds, reptiles, insects, and fish. Meanwhile, another group of eighteen youth studied pollination services to support a forest restoration business case. Twenty other participants assessed soil carbon levels to evaluate the forest’s role in climate regulation. Moving forward, these youths will play a crucial role in developing an Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EBA) strategy and action plan to tackle the region’s climate challenges.
Beyond contributing to the project’s goals, these young people are gaining invaluable skills in research, environmental conservation, and data management—skills that can open doors to careers in conservation and related fields. More importantly, their involvement fosters a deeper understanding of how healthy ecosystems contribute to human well-being, inspiring a sense of environmental stewardship.
Once the data collection phase is complete, the findings will guide scientists, policymakers, and conservation agencies in designing solutions to protect Cherangani’s biodiversity while promoting sustainable forest use. These solutions will be implemented at national and county levels, ensuring that the ecosystem and the communities that depend on it can thrive in the wake of climate change.
This project is about preserving a forest and empowering a generation to take charge of their future. By equipping youth with the tools to make a difference, the initiative is creating a ripple effect—turning conservation into a movement where nature and people thrive hand in hand. The Cherangani youth are proving that the future of conservation is bright, dynamic, and full of possibilities.