Kenya: Meru County has taken a significant step towards strengthening sustainable forest management through a high-level engagement to review and update expired and expiring Forest Plantation Management Plans across its forest stations.
Reportedly, the meeting was observed in Meru County, that convened key forestry stakeholders to assess current plantation strategies and aligned them with updated national guidelines. The session provided a technical platform for reflection, planning, and harmonisation of management which approached to ensure compliant and effective implementation across the forest ecosystems of the country.
These forest stations represented Meru Forest Station, Ontulili Forest Station, Nyambene Forest Station, Ruthumbi Forest Station, and Marania Forest Station, reflecting a coordinated county-wide effort towards improved plantation planning and management. Their participation highlighted the importance of cross-station collaboration in enhancing forest productivity and sustainability outcomes.
The engagement was coordinated by the Forest Plantation Management and Inventory Team alongside the Monitoring and Evaluation Team from headquarters. It underscored the role of data-driven planning and performance monitoring in modern plantation forestry. The deliberations focused on identifying gaps within expired plans, improving planning frameworks, and strengthening compliance with evolving forestry standards.
Key stakeholders who were present at the gathering included the RFC Eastern Conservancy led by Monicah Ndirangu, the County Forest Conservator for Meru, Wellington Ndaka, and forest station managers from across the represented areas. Their presence reinforced the collaborative and multi-level approach required to ensure sustainable management and long-term conservation outcomes.
Considering this, the participants emphasised the need for updated management strategies that reflected national forestry policies, environmental sustainability priorities, and community considerations. The review process is expected to strengthen planning efficiency, improve compliance mechanisms, and support sustainable utilisation of forest resources.
Through this initiative, Meru County continues to demonstrate its commitment to responsible forest stewardship, improved plantation management, and the protection of natural resources for present and future generations.