More than 28,000 households in Elgeyo Marakwet County are poised to benefit from the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme an ambitious effort led by Treasury Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo to restore the Kaptagat Forest ecosystem while improving local livelihoods.

Now in its 9th edition, the programme will culminate in a major event on Friday, July 12, 2025, to be presided over by President William Ruto.

Dr. Kiptoo, the initiative’s patron, has received both national and international recognition for mobilizing communities and stakeholders around environmental protection and development.

Forestry Secretary George Tarus, speaking during the launch of pre-event activities, confirmed that preparations are on course.

Among the main objectives this year is the rehabilitation of 34 hectares of degraded forest land.

“We’re coupling conservation with livelihoods support,” said Tarus, noting that the programme includes distribution of high-value crop seedlings such as avocado and macadamia to promote agroforestry and enhance household incomes.

Tarus stressed that poverty is a major driver of forest destruction. “To tackle deforestation, we must also uplift communities economically. That’s why our focus includes income-generating projects,” he said.

In the latest phase, households will receive high-yield dairy livestock and assistance in establishing fodder farms.

Each beneficiary is expected to set aside land for fodder and for growing cash crops within an agroforestry system.

While commercial grazing in forests remains banned, Tarus explained that communities still retain controlled access through participatory forest management agreements with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS).

Another major milestone will be the fencing of the entire 273-kilometre forest perimeter an effort that will be rolled out in consultation with communities and informed by benchmarking visits to other protected areas such as Mt. Kenya, Aberdare, Kakamega, and Southwest Mau.

“Fencing is vital for safeguarding the forest. But equally important is helping the community understand and own the process,” said Tarus.

To raise awareness and mobilize local participation, this year’s Kaptagat Cycling Challenge was held ahead of the main event, attracting participants from across the region.

Monica Jelimo and Ndung’u wa Kieya emerged as overall winners, with Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Shollei among the dignitaries in attendance.

Beyond his environmental work, Dr. Kiptoo continues to advocate for education and grassroots development in the North Rift, deepening his legacy as a champion of integrated, people-centered progress.

The Kaptagat initiative is increasingly seen as a blueprint for blending environmental conservation with sustainable community development an approach gaining traction in national and international policy circles.