KENAS Joins Hands to Restore Kakamega Forest in Tree Growing Initiative
The Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) recently joined forces with the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation (KFHF) in a transformative tree growing initiative at Ileho, Kakamega East Sub County. This noble event is part of Kenya’s broader national agenda to enhance forest cover, restore critical ecosystems, and combat the adverse effects of climate change.
KENAS made a notable contribution by donating 7,000 indigenous tree seedlings and actively participating in the planting exercise. This effort aligns with the government’s National Tree Growing Restoration Campaign, a flagship initiative that has seen the planting of hundreds of millions of trees across the country.
Representing the Chief Executive during the event, Mr. Stanslaus Alwyn Masinza, Manager for Calibration Laboratories at KENAS, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to environmental sustainability. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of indigenous trees in enhancing biodiversity, maintaining the ecological integrity of the Kakamega Forest, and supporting local livelihoods. He also emphasized KENAS's readiness to accredit certifiers of forests, a strategic move that could further entrench quality and trust in forest conservation efforts.
“Planting indigenous trees is not just an act of conservation—it is a commitment to our future. KENAS is proud to support initiatives that contribute to sustainable development and demonstrate the power of partnerships,” Mr. Masinza noted.
The Kakamega Forest, Kenya’s only remaining tropical rainforest, is a vital ecological zone that supports rich biodiversity and provides essential ecosystem services. Through this initiative, KFHF and its partners like KENAS are working to reverse years of degradation. KFHF alone has successfully planted over 130,000 indigenous trees and restored more than 176 acres of forest land.
Such partnerships are crucial in achieving Kenya’s environmental goals and global climate commitments. KENAS's participation in this initiative reflects its broader values—not just as an accrediting body but as a responsible and forward-looking national institution committed to sustainable impact.
As climate change continues to challenge nations, institutions like KENAS are stepping beyond their traditional roles to support green initiatives, promote ecosystem integrity, and build resilience for future generations.
