Story by Faith Esika
Nestled in the heart of the Embobut Forest, a community-led revival is taking root. What started as an ambitious collaboration in 2024 between the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund (EIWF) and the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has blossomed into a beacon of sustainability and empowerment. The Sengwer People, long- standing custodians of nature, are not just planting trees, they are cultivating resilience. The Sengwer tree nursery, the first of its kind under the EIWF-KFS partnership, became a reality through collective effort. With nursery equipment supplied by the EIWF and training conducted by Kapyego Forest Station Manager, the community was equipped with both knowledge and tools to succeed.
“This job gives me purpose
because I have seen the land
degradation challenges my
community faces.”
– Timo,
member
Under the careful supervision of the Sengwer Council of Elders Chair, Mr. Kiptuga, the nursery became a source of livelihood and a testament to the power of community-driven conservation. In just a year, the nursery prepared an impressive forty-three thousand (43,000) tree seedlings, all of which were purchased by the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund (EIWF) – an achievement that underscored the dedication of the eighteen (18) people working tirelessly within the nursery. Among them are women and youth, who now have a sustainable source of income while playing an integral role in environmental restoration.
For many, this initiative represents more than just employment, it is an opportunity to reaffirm their role as stewards of nature. Committed to the cause, the community aims to produce over 40,000 seedlings, ready for supply by August 2025. This goal is not just a number, it symbolizes resilience, determination, and a belief in the power of nature to transform lives. The trees the community are nurturing today are more than just saplings, they are living proof that when people come together for a cause greater than themselves, they can sow the seeds of a greener, more sustainable tomorrow. By supporting initiatives like this, we not only restore landscapes but also empower Indigenous communities to lead the way in environmental stewardship. Let’s stand with the Sengwer and nurture the roots of change together.
