Australia Backs KSh 287 Million Land Restoration Initiative in Kenya
A groundbreaking land restoration initiative backed by the Australian Government was launched committing AUD 3.5 million (KSh 287 million) to accelerate Kenya’s regreening efforts.
The project, dubbed Regreening for the Future aims to equip farmers and researchers with tools to combat land degradation and strengthen food security amid escalating climate change threats.
The project, unveiled in Nairobi by Dr. Jane Njuguna, Director of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), seeks to restore degraded landscapes and enhance community-driven adaptation strategies.
Speaking during the launch,Dr. Njuguna underscored the urgency of the initiative on climate resilient.
“Climate change is a global crisis, and Kenya is already experiencing its devastating effects across social and economic sectors. This initiative will empower communities with sustainable regreening strategies, ensuring that farmers have the support needed to restore degraded landscapes and build resilience against climate shocks,” she stated.
Global Expertise, Local Impact highlighting the significance of the partnership
Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Chief Executive, Professor Wendy Umberger, noted that Africa and Australia share similar Agricultural challengs.
“Africa and Australia share similar agricultural challenges, and this collaboration leverages Australia’s expertise while tapping into Africa’s rich knowledge on land restoration. By investing in community-led regreening efforts, we can develop climate-ready solutions that ensure long-term sustainability,” she said.
Funded through the ACIAR, the initiative brings together a powerful consortium of partners, including World Vision Australia, World Vision Kenya, KEFRI, the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR-ICRAF), the University of Nairobi, and the United Nations University
Making his remarks,World Vision Kenya’s National Director, Gilbert Kamanga, emphasized the project’s transformational impact.
“Restoring landscapes is key to ensuring food security and sustainability for future generations. This initiative will empower farmers with practical tools and policy support, strengthening their role in environmental conservation.”
The initiative aligns with Kenya’s ambitious environmental goals under the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100) and the Bonn Challenge, which target the restoration of 10.6 million hectares of degraded land and an increase in tree cover to 32 percent by 2032.
The Key Highlights of the Initiative includes Community-led regreening: Equipping farmers and local communities with knowledge and tools for sustainable land management.
Multi-stakeholder collaboration: Bringing together top research institutions, NGOs, and government agencies.
Climate resilience focus: Developing strategies to adapt to changing weather patterns and safeguard food production.
Support for Kenya’s restoration targets: Contributing to the country’s goal of restoring 10.6 million hectares of land by 2032.
With Kenya facing increasing threats from climate change, the Regreening for the Future initiative marks a major step toward sustainable land management and environmental conservation, ensuring a greener and more resilient future for generations to come.
By Sharon Atieno
