The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) stands as a National Institution with a rich history and a vital role in the sustainable management of forests and allied natural resources in Kenya and beyond. Hosting a vast natural history collection of biodiversity of plants and invertebrates of Forest Ecosystems in the Eastern Africa region, KEFRI is at the forefront of forestry research and conservation.
Mount Kenya Forest
Establishment and Mandate
Established as a State Corporation in 1986, KEFRI's mandate is clearly defined by the Science, Technology and Innovation Act No 28 of 2013 and the Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016. These legislative frameworks empower KEFRI to undertake Forestry Research in Kenya, ensuring that its activities are aligned with national policies and international best practices.
KEFRI undertakes research and provides technologies and information for sustainable management, conservation and development of forests and allied natural resources.
International Recognition and Leadership
Kenya triumphed over Canada in a competitive bidding process, showcasing the country's growing international recognition of its role in global forestry research and climate leadership. This victory was hailed by Dr. Jane Njuguna, CEO of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), as a win "not only for Kenya, but for the African continent as a whole."
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IUFRO President Dr. John Parrotta hailed the decision as “a historic step” that acknowledges Africa’s biodiversity and scientific contributions. Kenya represents an ideal host nation.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr. KEFRI Director Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo emphasised that the event would prioritise strong African participation.
Partnerships and Collaboration
KEFRI's work is strengthened through strategic partnerships and collaborations with other leading research institutions. World Agroforestry (ICRAF) is one such partner, a centre of scientific excellence that harnesses the benefits of trees for people and the environment.
ICRAF and CIFOR Collaboration
Founded in 1978, with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, ICRAF is the only institution that does globally significant agroforestry research in and for all of the developing tropics. ICRAF and the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) joined forces in 2019, leveraging nearly five decades of trusted science and extensive partnership networks across Africa, Asia and Latin America.
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CIFOR-ICRAF harnesses the power of trees to shift the trajectories of three global issues - biodiversity, climate change and food security - supported throughout by our work on value chains and equity.
These collaborations enhance KEFRI's ability to address complex challenges related to forestry, agroforestry, and environmental sustainability.
Key Milestones and Achievements
Here's a summary of key milestones in KEFRI's journey:
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1892 | Founded in 1892, IUFRO brings together forest scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance sustainable forestry. |
| 1978 | World Agroforestry (ICRAF) Founded |
| 1986 | KEFRI Established as a State Corporation |
| 2013 | Science, Technology and Innovation Act No 28 |
| 2016 | Forest Conservation and Management Act |
| 2019 | ICRAF and CIFOR joined forces |
KEFRI’s commitment to research, conservation, and sustainable forest management makes it a crucial player in safeguarding Kenya's natural heritage for future generations.
Sustainable Forestry Practices
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