Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network(KOWYN) has commenced initiative towards restoration of degraded forests.
The Organization is on a mission to restore degraded forests.
On Saturday March 28, 2026, the Organization in partnership with other entities commenced the exercise at Kapsimotwo along the the Kapsigiroi water spring in the Maji Mazuri Forest.
Together with environmentalists, the team put their hands in the red soil, and poured all their hearts giving a new breath to the forest.
During the exercise, 5,000 indigenous trees were planted.
Speaking during the event, Koibatek Ogiek Women and Youth Network(KOWYN) Executive Director Judy Kipkenda reiterated the need for environmental conservation.
She noted that for many years, forests have been invaded and destroyed, adding that time is now for restoration of all degraded forests.
While pointing out that Maji Mazuri Forest has great impact to the Ogiek Community, Ms Judy revealed that as community, they will work to ensure conservation of the forest and sustainability.
“This is just the beginning of our initiative towards restoration of all degraded forests,” she stated.
She added that the 5,000 seedlings planted returned to their ancestral home trees will play a big role in Protecting the Kapsigiroi and glades that sustain the community.
According to her, this is just the beginning of a journey towards reviving Ogiek heritage, from their food systems to their spiritual roots.
The team vowed to ensure that it is not just about planting and leaving, but nurturing the trees to maturity for the generations to come.
Sentiments echoed by environmentalists who joined in the tree planting exercise.
Hon. Rebby Chepchumba Sebei who is Manager of Ruko Community Wildlife Conservancy and a 2027 UDA aspirant for Baringo Woman Rep seat, called for concerted effort in matters conservation.
She reiterated the importance of conservation of natural resources, adding that it will go a long way in addressing matters climate change.
“Many may noy understand the impact of what we do in planting trees. We might not feel the fruits now, but we are making a better future. In planting trees and taking care of them, then we will even help address the challenges of climate change,” she stated.
Mr. Elphas Masanga from Seedballs Kenya, lauded all those who showed up during the exercise.
According to him, indigenous trees are key in restoration of forests and address challenges of climate change.
Hillary Simotwa from Kamara area was categorical that the government and all stakeholders should join hands in matters conservation.