Mar, 21, 2025. TTWCA in collaboration with the Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary hosted an ‘in-action’ celebration of the International Day of Forests, themed Forests, and food.
The event highlighted ongoing efforts to restore degraded ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods.
Led by the TTWCA through the TUI Forest Kenya Project, funded by the TUI Care Foundation, we have so far, planted over 26,000 indigenous trees sourced from community-run nurseries with over 800 seedlings planted today.
These efforts not only rejuvenate biodiversity but also provide economic benefits to local groups.
Marking the day, TTWCA CEO Alfred Mwanake highlighted the link between forests and food security.
Forests support pollinators, which enhance crop production. TTWCA is committed to ensuring that conservation benefits the community by building capacity and supporting local enterprises. Conservation is working, it creates employment and economic opportunities.
Key representatives from ABSA Bank, and the Taita Taveta County Government present, acknowledged the unified efforts, reaffirming their support for conservation.
County Forester Sylvester Mwang’ombe emphasized on the importance of tree planting at home.
As we commemorate this day, we must embrace tree growing both in protected areas and at home. Establishing woodlots will significantly boost forest cover and ensure a sustainable resource supply and the county is fully behind these initiatives.
Phillip Mwangómbe, the Sanctuary’s Manager, underscored the importance of community involvement.
Working with local groups ensures the long-term success of afforestation. Additionally, afforestation boosts tourism, which in turn benefits the communities relying on these landscapes for their livelihoods.
As a continued spirit of celebrating communities, TTWCA distributed essential nursery equipment, including water tanks, wheelbarrows, and shade nets, to 5 community groups: United Women, Pema, Zingatia, Talio, and Mwazoka.
This support strengthens their capacity for reforestation while providing economic opportunities.
Noel Kasololo, the TTWCA’s Program Manager urged the community to maintain the distributed equipment.
Receiving support is just the beginning; true impact comes from how well we take care of it. Proper use of these resources will determine the success of your conservation efforts.
The event concluded with a call for sustained collaboration.
Let today’s efforts inspire broader conservation initiatives. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our environment and livelihoods. ~Betrand Nyage, TTWCA’s Rangeland Officer.
The celebration was a powerful reminder that conservation is not only about planting trees, but also about fostering resilience, supporting communities, and securing the future.
This event was made possible by the support from TUI Care Foundation, WWF-Kenya and ABSA Bank Voi