On October 8, 2024, SMACHS Foundation embarked on a transformative journey by officially adopting the Kapchumbe Block of the Chepalungu Forest in Bomet County. This block, covering 202 hectares (approximately 404 acres), is part of our long-term Roots to Canopy Project, aimed at rehabilitating this once-thriving forest by planting 200,000 trees over the next eight years.
The Chepalungu Forest, which straddles both Chepalungu and Sotik sub-counties, spans 12,000 acres in total. However, the forest was completely destroyed during Kenya’s 2007 post-election violence, leaving it barren and vulnerable to further degradation. SMACHS Foundation’s adoption of the Kapchumbe Block is a major step towards reversing this damage and restoring the forest’s ecological balance.
Why Chepalungu Forest?
The destruction of Chepalungu Forest in 2007 was a significant loss, not only for the local ecosystem but also for the communities that relied on it for water, biodiversity, and climate regulation. This critical forest, now a shadow of its former self, is in desperate need of restoration. By adopting the Kapchumbe Block, SMACHS Foundation seeks to restore this ecosystem, aligning with our broader mission to lead youth-driven initiatives in Climate-Smart Agriculture and Climate Action.
The Launch of the Rehabilitation Initiative
The official launch of the Chepalungu Forest Rehabilitation Initiative was a resounding success. Held on October 8, 2024, the event brought together students from seven local schools, community members, and environmental advocates. Together, we planted the first 1,000 trees, setting the foundation for the forest’s revival.
Our focus on engaging youth in the reforestation process was at the heart of the event. By involving young people from the surrounding community, SMACHS Foundation is empowering them to take ownership of their environment and play an active role in the fight against climate change. The enthusiasm displayed by the students and community members highlighted the power of youth-led environmental initiatives, a key pillar of our foundation.
Roots to Canopy: Restoring the Kapchumbe Block
Our Roots to Canopy Project is an ambitious initiative designed to rehabilitate the 202 hectares we have adopted within Chepalungu Forest. Over the next eight years, SMACHS Foundation aims to plant 200,000 trees, rejuvenating the land and restoring vital ecological functions. This project is more than just tree planting—it is about reviving a vital ecosystem that plays a crucial role in water catchment, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration.
The restoration of Chepalungu Forest is closely tied to SMACHS Foundation’s two thematic pillars of Climate Action and Food Security. Healthy forests help regulate climate by storing carbon and providing clean water to nearby communities. Furthermore, reforestation contributes to soil health and prevents erosion, which is essential for sustainable agriculture. As we bring this forest back to life, we are also helping to secure the future of Kenya’s agricultural productivity.
Aligning With Our Core Values
SMACHS Foundation’s adoption of the Kapchumbe Block exemplifies our commitment to our values of sustainability, collaboration, and environmental stewardship. By working alongside local schools, organizations, and the community, we are ensuring that this initiative is both inclusive and impactful. Our goal is not just to restore a forest but to create a lasting environmental legacy for future generations.
This project also supports our vision of a youth-led climate-smart agricultural renaissance. By empowering young people to lead the way in climate action and sustainable farming, we are equipping them with the skills and knowledge to build a more resilient, sustainable future.
Beekeeping
As part of the Chepalungu Forest adoption, SMACHS Foundation is implementing beekeeping training for community members. This initiative aligns with our mission to foster sustainable livelihoods and protect the forest ecosystem. Beekeeping offers an alternative source of income, reducing the community’s reliance on harmful practices like tree-cutting for financial gain. Moreover, bees play a critical role in the forest’s pollination process, helping to regenerate plant life and maintain biodiversity. By promoting beekeeping, we encourage the community to protect the forest, as the presence of bees will deter both people and animals from disturbing the area, further supporting our commitment to long-term environmental sustainability.
Join us in Restoring Chepalungu Forest!
The journey to rehabilitate Chepalungu Forest is just beginning, and SMACHS Foundation is calling on all individuals, organizations, and partners to join us. Whether you’re passionate about environmental conservation, reforestation, or youth empowerment, your support is crucial to the success of this initiative.
Every tree planted in the Kapchumbe Block is a step toward a healthier, more sustainable planet. We welcome all environmentalists, volunteers, and supporters to join hands with us as we work to restore Chepalungu Forest, one tree at a time. Together, we can create a future where our forests thrive, our communities flourish, and our ecosystems are in balance.
This adoption is a powerful testament to SMACHS Foundation’s commitment to Climate Action and Food Security. We are proud of the progress made and look forward to the continued restoration of Chepalungu Forest as we empower young people across Kenya’s 47 counties to lead in climate-smart agriculture and environmental conservation.
