The program targets degraded areas in Nakuru County. These include Molo, Njoro, and Kuresoi sub-counties. These regions depend heavily on the Mau ecosystem for water, farming, and biodiversity.
The meeting also discussed the Mau Catchment Resource Centre. This centre will be hosted at Egerton University. It will serve as a hub for research, coordination, and training.
The high-level meeting was chaired by Nakuru Deputy Governor H.E. David Kones. It brought together leaders from government, academia, and civil society. Egerton University was represented by Prof. George Ogendi, Principal of Nakuru City Campus College. He was joined by Prof. George Owuor, Director of Research and Extension, and Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization.
“This is big,” said Prof. Kitaka. “We are happy that the restoration plans in this programme will help us achieve the objectives we’ve always had through the Run for the Mau Cross Country. We’re now planning a Mau Marathon in Kuresoi Sub-county, where we already have conservation sites like Kenyatta and Keringet Dams.”
Other key participants included officials from Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Wildlife Conservation (KWS), Water Resources Authority (WRA), Water Research Institute (WRI), and Wild Wide Fund (WWF). Several County and National Government departments were also present.
The launch followed shortly after the 10th Edition of the Run for the Mau Cross Country. The annual race is organized by Egerton University. It raises awareness and funds for tree planting and forest restoration. The event brings together students, faculty, communities, and national leaders.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage has always stressed the University’s role in protecting the environment. Under his leadership, Egerton has maintained academic excellence in agriculture and environmental science. The University has also put its research into practical action.
“Egerton University is not just a centre of learning,” said Prof. Kibwage in a previous meeting. “It is a living example of environmental stewardship. The restoration of Mau is not optional. It is a national duty.”
The new conservation program responds to serious forest degradation. It will restore riparian and forest areas. It will also promote climate-smart agriculture and help communities become more climate-resilient. Schools will be supported to start kitchen gardens and environmental clubs.
Deputy Governor Kones affirmed Nakuru County’s dedication. “The Mau Forest is a vital water tower for Kenya. Without it, our future is threatened. This initiative shows what can happen when everyone works together,” he said.
Egerton is already working to rehabilitate Kenyatta Dam and Keringet Dam. These projects involve replanting trees and restoring riverbanks. Local communities are engaged to ensure the efforts are sustainable. These dams help with biodiversity, water supply, and climate regulation.
At the meeting, Dr. Nelson Maara, CECM for Water and Environment, and Vicky Betty Marisin from the State Department of Environment emphasized public engagement. They highlighted the use of the "shamba system." This allows farmers to intercrop food crops within tree plantations under strict guidelines. It balances restoration and livelihoods.
The Mau Forest initiative is more than just planting trees. It is about people, policy, and partnerships. Egerton University’s role in research, training, and outreach makes it a major force in Kenya’s journey toward climate resilience.
Story: By Kurian Musa
Communications Officer, Egerton University
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Photos: Courtesy
