By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with the-star.co.ke
Published on 2024-01-17 18:00:00
The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (Kefri) has taken significant steps to improve tree seed production in response to a growing demand. Kefri’s acting CEO, Jane Njuguna, expressed confidence in the organization’s ability to supply high-quality seeds to support the government’s goal of increasing tree cover.
The government aims to grow 15 billion trees to achieve a 30% tree cover by 2032, a substantial increase from the current 12.13%. This ambitious program requires a budget of Sh600 billion, with an annual allocation of Sh60 billion.
Njuguna emphasized the need to plant at least 20 billion trees to ensure that 15 billion will survive, accounting for natural loss. Since its establishment in 1985, Kefri has steadily expanded its seed production capacity, currently collecting seeds from over 400 tree species in the country.
The organization’s capacity has increased from producing 1.5 tonnes of seeds per year in 1985 to 100 tonnes at present, in response to the rising demand driven by agroforestry, farm forestry, and performance contracts. Furthermore, Kefri has secured government approval to establish seed processing and distribution units in 18 regional centers, alleviating the burden on the main facility in Muguga.
Njuguna reported that Kefri has recruited 80 new employees to strengthen forestry research and innovation across the institute’s 18 sub-centers nationwide. These employees will play a crucial role in supporting the 15 billion tree initiative and ensuring the availability of quality seeds.
In conclusion, Kefri’s efforts to enhance tree seed production and distribution are aligned with the government’s ambitious tree planting program. With increased capacity and an expanded workforce, the institute is well-positioned to contribute to the significant goal of expanding Kenya’s tree cover for environmental and economic sustainability.
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