Part One
At the heart of Nairobi’s metropolitan region, GLFx Nairobi is Restoring Oloolua Forest, working hand-in-hand with local communities, forest user groups, and key stakeholders to implement sustainable forest management practices. The cornerstone of this initiative is the Participatory Forest Management Plan (PFMP), a vital document that bridges community needs with forest governance.
Since the project’s inception, significant progress has been made in strengthening community capacity, enhancing stakeholder engagement, and advancing sustainable practices. The aim is simple but impactful: empower communities to take ownership of the forest while adopting conservation methods that will benefit future generations.
Our journey began with consultations with the Community Forest Association (CFA) management, where we held two initial meetings to discuss the key issues affecting Oloolua Forest and its stakeholders. These discussions helped to align our activities with the needs of the community, providing a platform for collaboration and understanding.
A significant focus of the project has been on involving local schools in forest restoration efforts. GLFx Nairobi led visits to three schools near Oloolua Forest: Olkeri Primary School, Nkaimurunya Primary School, and Embulbul Primary and Secondary Schools. During these visits, we identified the environmental education needs of student clubs, which were eager to gain hands-on experience in conservation and restoration. The schools were particularly interested in planting indigenous and fruit-bearing trees, which not only have biodiversity benefits but also offer economic and nutritional value. Following these consultations, we launched tree-growing programs in three schools, planting 400 trees with the students. These initiatives are not only about restoring the forest but also about creating young ambassadors for conservation.
A key milestone in the project was the two-day workshop held in August 2024. This workshop brought together various forest user groups, including those involved in beekeeping, tree nurseries, eco-tourism, and herbal collection, along with private sector representatives and faith-based organizations. The goal was to build a collective understanding of the PFMP and develop practical work plans for its implementation.
“This workshop opened our eyes to the importance of the PFMP. We now see it not just as a document, but as a roadmap for our daily work in forest conservation.”
– Workshop attendee
Through engaging discussions and practical sessions, participants explored the challenges facing Oloolua Forest, including overgrazing, illegal activities, and human-wildlife conflict. The workshop also emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing these challenges. Participants developed detailed action plans, tailored to their specific user groups, outlining activities such as tree planting, eco-tourism development, and sustainable livelihoods like beekeeping.
“Our action plan now includes specific steps to promote eco-tourism that benefits both the community and the forest. We are excited to see the positive change this will bring.”
– Ecotourism Forest user, participant in the workshop
One of the workshop’s major outcomes was the beginning of discussions to form a multi-stakeholder forum, a platform designed to coordinate ongoing forest restoration efforts. This forum will serve as a space for dialogue and collective action, ensuring that key actors—ranging from government agencies and private sector partners to community groups—are aligned in their goals.
By formalizing partnerships with local institutions and businesses, we are opening up opportunities for joint initiatives in eco-tourism, forest conservation, and community empowerment. This collaborative approach ensures that all stakeholders have a role to play in Oloolua Forest’s restoration.
Project Progress: Milestones Achieved
Since the project launch, we have made notable progress, including:
- Capacity Building: Forest user groups now have a clearer understanding of the PFMP and how to apply it in their conservation activities.
- Community Action: Work plans developed during the workshop are being implemented, with activities such as tree planting and eco-tourism promotion already underway.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Initial meetings have taken place with key stakeholders to establish the multi-stakeholder forum, and invitations for further discussions have been sent out.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Despite the success, the project has encountered challenges, particularly around managing conflicts of interest between CFA blocks and delays in resource provision. These challenges have highlighted the need for:
- Clear Communication: Ensuring transparency in discussions to manage expectations and resolve conflicts.
- Ongoing Capacity Building: Providing continuous training to stakeholders to address emerging challenges.
- Follow-Ups: Regular follow ups with government related support to ensure all documents/ legal issues related to working in the forest are handled on time
The Road Ahead: Continuing the Journey
The restoration of Oloolua Forest is a long-term commitment. Moving forward, the project will focus on further capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and training in forest value chains, communication, and eco-tourism. The multi-stakeholder forum will be a central pillar in coordinating these efforts, ensuring that all actors are working together towards a shared vision for the forest.
Through these combined efforts, we are confident that Oloolua Forest will be restored to its former ecological glory, providing lasting benefits for both the people and the planet.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this journey of restoration!