TRI Kenya (ASAL)

Community-Driven Restoration in the Vast and Arid Landscapes of Kenya

The arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) of Kenya, home to millions who depend on pastoralism and small-scale agriculture, are undergoing a significant transformation through the efforts of the Restoration Initiative (TRI). These regions face challenges such as land degradation, deforestation, and overgrazing. TRI’s project employs community-driven approaches to restore degraded lands and promote sustainable land management practices in the Mount Kulal Biosphere Reserve in Marsabit County & Mukogodo forest landscape in Laikipia County. By introducing innovative practices like beekeeping and pasture seed banks, the project aims to enhance ecosystem services, uplift the livelihoods of local community members, and build resilience against climate change.

The TRI project in Kenya focuses on the ASAL regions, which are characterized by low rainfall and are home to approximately 16 million people who rely on pastoralism and small-scale agriculture for their livelihoods. These areas are particularly vulnerable to land degradation due to deforestation, overgrazing, and unsustainable agricultural practices. TRI’s approach combines community engagement, sustainable land management, and policy support to restore degraded lands and enhance the resilience of local communities. The indigenous peoples of Kenya have been a driving force behind TRI’s Kenya ASAL project, providing insightful knowledge and getting active in implementing restoration strategies. 

Significant Impacts and Progression

Since its inception, the TRI project in Kenya’s arid landscapes has been making significant strides in restoring degraded landscapes, bringing 2,408 hectares of land under restoration and 193,931 hectares under improved management. Working with the local community has been a prominent theme in Kenya, with active community engagement propelling restoration efforts and the diversification of income generation receiving significant attention.… Read the rest