Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem

INTEGRATED MASTER PLAN FOR REHABILITATION AND RESTORATION OF THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM Ministry of Environment and Forestry Page ii INTEGRATED MASTER PLAN FOR REHABILITATION AND RESTORATION OF THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM Ó Government of Kenya, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, 2021 Page iii Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem FOREWORD ........................................................................................................................... vi ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................... vii LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................... viii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................... x CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION AND CHARACTERISATION OF DEGRADATION IN THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO LANDSCAPE .................................................................. 13 1.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................... 13 1.2 Background Information ................................................................................................. 13 1.3 Scope of the Master Plan ................................................................................................ 14 1.4 Goal and Objectives of the Master Plan .......................................................................... 16 1.5 Justification for the Master Plan ...................................................................................... 16 1.6 Situational Analysis ......................................................................................................... 17 1.6.1 Climate ..................................................................................................................... 17 1.6.2 Hydrology ................................................................................................................. 17 1.6.3 Total Economic Value of Cherangany Hills .............................................................. 18 1.6.4 Biodiversity .............................................................................................................. 20 1.6.5 Socio-Economic Activities ....................................................................................... 21 1.6.6 Human Population ................................................................................................... 21 1.6.7 The Status of Land Cover and Land Use .................................................................. 23 1.6.8 Degradation levels .................................................................................................. 26 CHAPTER 2 : THE IMPORTANCE OF CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM ................................................................................................................................................. 29 2.1 Assessing the Total Economic Valuation ........................................................................ 29 2.2 Boosting Agricultural Production ................................................................................... 29 2.3 Provision of Water for Domestic and Commercial Purposes ........................................... 29 2.4 Provision of Water for Hydro-electric Power Generation ................................................ 29 2.5 Provision of Timber, Non timber and Quarry Materials .................................................. 30 2.6 Provision of herbal medicine .......................................................................................... 30 2.7 Regulatory and Cultural Services of the Critical Water Catchment Areas ...................... 30 2.8 Support Services for Tourism, Recreation and Cultural Activities................................... 30 2.9 Support Services to Research and Training ..................................................................... 30 CHAPTER 3 : ZONATION OF CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM ........ 31 3.1 Characterizing the Ecosystem ......................................................................................... 31 3.2 Characteristics of the Landscape ..................................................................................... 31 3.3 Zonation of the Ecosystem ............................................................................................. 32 Page iv Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 4 : POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK ...................................................... 34 4.1 Legal and Policy Backing ................................................................................................ 34 4.2 The Legislative Framework ............................................................................................. 34 4.2.1 The Constitution of Kenya, 2010.............................................................................. 34 4.2.2 The Environmental Management and Coordination Act No. 8 of 1999 (Read together with the 2015 Amendment Act) ......................................................................................... 34 4.2.3 Kenya Water Towers Agency Order, 2012 ............................................................... 35 4.2.4 The Environmental and Land Court Act, 2011 ........................................................ 35 4.2.5 The Occupational Safety and Healthy Act, 2007 ...................................................... 35 4.2.6 Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013 .................................................. 35 4.2.7 Land Act, 2012 – Read with the Subsequent Land Laws Amendment Act, 2016 ...... 35 4.2.8 Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016...................................................... 36 4.2.9 County Government Act, 2012 ................................................................................. 36 4.2.10 Agricultural Act, 2012 ............................................................................................ 36 4.2.11 Water Act, 2016 ...................................................................................................... 36 4.3 Guiding Policy Documents .............................................................................................. 37 4.3.1 National Environment Policy, 2013 ........................................................................... 37 4.3.2 National Land Policy, 2007 ....................................................................................... 37 4.4 Relevant Strategies and Plans .......................................................................................... 37 4.4.1 The Kenya Vision 2030 ............................................................................................ 37 4.4.2 The Sustainable Development Goals, 2016-2030 ...................................................... 37 4.4.3 National Environment Action Plan (NEAP) ............................................................. 38 4.4.4 Ministry of Environment and Forestry Strategic Plan 2018-2022 ............................. 38 4.4.5 National Climate Change Action Plan 2018-2022 .................................................... 38 4.4.6 County Integrated Development Plans 2018-2022 .................................................... 38 4.4.7 Nationally Determined Contributions ....................................................................... 39 4.4.8 Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan 2018-2030 ................................. 39 4.4.9 National Strategy for Achieving and Maintaining over 10 percent Tree Cover by 2022 .......................................................................................................................................... 39 4.5 Multilateral Environmental Agreements ......................................................................... 39 CHAPTER 5: THREATS AND CHALLENGES FACING THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM ............................................................................................................ 41 5.1 Some Key Threats ........................................................................................................... 41 5.2 Zone 1: Challenges Facing Gazetted Forests ................................................................... 41 5.3 Zone 2: Challenges in Upland Areas (Excluding the Gazetted Forests) .......................... 43 5.4 Zone 3: Challenges in Escarpments ................................................................................ 45 5.5 Zone 4: Challenges in Lowland areas ............................................................................. 49 5.6 Zone 5: Challenges in the Riparian areas ........................................................................ 50 Page v Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 6 : EFFORTS TO ADDRESS THREATS AND CHALLENGES ..................... 52 6.1 Various Stakeholder Efforts............................................................................................. 52 CHAPTER 7 : RECOMMENDED INTERVENTIONS ....................................................... 56 7.1 The Importance of Focus on Individual Zones ................................................................ 56 7.2 Zone 1: Recommendations for the Gazetted Forests....................................................... 56 7.3 Zone 2: Recommendations for Upland Areas (excluding gazetted forests) ..................... 57 7.4 Zone 3: Recommendations for Escarpments .................................................................. 59 7.5 Zone 4: Recommendation for Lowland areas ................................................................. 60 7.6 Zone 5: Recommendations for the Riparian areas .......................................................... 62 7.7 Recommendations for Cross-Cutting Issues ................................................................... 63 CHAPTER 8: IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING ...................... 67 8.1 Linking and Coordinating Diverse Stakeholder Interests ................................................. 67 8.2 Mandate ......................................................................................................................... 67 8.3 Institutional Arrangements ............................................................................................. 67 8.4 Development of Programme Guidelines ........................................................................ 69 8.5 Proposed Implementation Plan ...................................................................................... 69 8.6 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework ......................................................................... 85 8.7 Principles to Guide the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework ...................................... 85 8.8 Outline of the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework .................................................... 85 CHAPTER 9 : THE RESOURCE MOBILIZATION PLAN ............................................... 87 9.1 Engagement of Stakeholders........................................................................................... 87 9.2 Engagement of Partnerships ........................................................................................... 87 9.3 Financing Strategies ...................................................................................................... 87 CHAPTER 10: CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD .................................................... 89 10.1 Ensuring Implementation .............................................................................................. 89 10. 2 Summary Conclusion .................................................................................................. 89 10.3 Proposals for the Way Forward..................................................................................... 89 ANNEXES ............................................................................................................................... 91 Annex 1: The Terms of Reference for Development of an Integrated Masterplan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem .............................. 91 Annex 2: The Costed Common Programme Framework for the Integrated Masterplan for Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem .................................................................................. 94 Annex 3: National Steering Committee Members for the Development of the Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem ................... 98 Page vi Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem FOREWORD The primary motivation for the development of the Integrated Masterplan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem is to seek a lasting and inclusive solution to the perennial, interconnected environmental challenges in Embobut and the entire Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills landscape. It also answers to the 2019 directive by the National Development Implementation Communication and Coordination Committee (NDICCC) of the Cabinet for a comprehensive remedial and anticipatory solutions to environmental hazards in the ecosystem. Some of the perennial challenges to the ecosystem include conflicts over land ownership and tenure as well as the perennial landslides and claims of abuse of the indigenous community. In addition, there continues to be cases of encroachment into the gazetted areas along with the attendant wanton degradation of the landscape. Previous disciplinary interventions to these challenges have not resulted in tangible and lasting solutions, thus lending credence to a change in strategy for a more integrated, robust, trans-disciplinary and multi-agency approaches that this Masterplan strives for. The recommended interventions shall contribute to Kenya’s global and national commitments. Globally, the country commits, under the Nationally Determined Contribution, to abate Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by 32 percent by 2030 relative to the business-as-usual scenario of 143MtCo2e. Towards fulfilling the obligations under the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Kenya has committed to attain a balance between anticipated land degradation and positive land restoration actions by 2030, as part of the Land Degradation Neutrality targets. Further, Kenya commits to fully restore an additional 9 percent of degraded land. Under the Bonn Challenge, the commitment is to restore and afforest 5.1M Ha of degraded land; improve productivity of 16 percent of forest land and increase soil organic carbon in crop land by 319,626 tons by 2030. Under the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions, the commitment is to phase out ozone-depleting substances and manage other hazardous wastes for better human health. Nationally, the landscape approach contributes to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry’s mandate to promote and facilitate good governance in the protection, restoration, conservation, development and management of environment and forestry resources. Further, it helps achieve Kenya’s Vision 2030 developmental objectives; the Third Medium Term Plan (2018 – 2022) aspirations as well as the Big Four Agenda. Efforts have also been made to link the Masterplan to the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) in line with relevant approvals. It is our resolve as a ministry to ensure that this Masterplan becomes a test case for successful transdisciplinary and integrated landscape restoration approaches for enhanced global and local environmental benefits. Lessons drawn will be of benefit to other landscapes that are faced with and experiencing more or less similar circumstances. KERIAKO TOBIKO, CBS, SC CABINET SECRETARY Page vii Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Development of the Integrated Master plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem is timely and necessary in order to alleviate the environmental challenges in the landscape. The goodwill and kind gesture provided by the Cabinet Secretary in this process is greatly appreciated. The baseline data and content development provided by the Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies in the Ministry including the Kenya Water Towers Agency (KWTA), Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) and National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND) is equally greatly appreciated. The leadership along with professionals from the Counties of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, Trans-Nzoia and West Pokot made important observations and proposals that have been captured in the document. These collaborative efforts are gratefully recognized. The National Government Administrative Offices (NGAO) in the host counties provided baseline conditions and anticipated solutions to some of the conflicts and their input is acknowledged. Various institutions had different other roles that were necessary in refining the document and without specific mention of all the many individuals, their contribution is appreciated. We thank the Multi-agency team members drawn from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Kenya Water Towers Agency (KWTA), National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), National Environment Complaints Committee (NECC), National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND), Kenya Metrological Department (KMD) and World Wide Fund for Nature-Kenya (WWF-Kenya) who put together the initial draft of the Plan. We also thank other contributors from the County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu. DR CHRIS KIPTOO, CBS PRINCIPAL SECRETARY Page viii Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS BAK Boda Boda Association of Kenya BAU Business-as-usual CBD Convention on Biodiversity CBNRM Community-Based Natural Resource Management CBOs Community Based Organisations CCA Climate Change Act CCAP Climate Change Action Plan CCD Climate Change Directorate CEAPs County Environmental Action Plans CEC County Executive Committee CFAs Community Forest Associations CIDP County Integrated Development Plan CITES Convention on International Trade on Endangered Species CMS Convention on Migratory Species CPIUs County Programme Implementation Units EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ELDOWAS Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company EMCA Environmental Management and Coordination Act ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESPs Extension Service Providers FBOs Faith-Based Organisations FPIC Free, Prior and Informed Consent GESIP Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan GHG Greenhouse Gases HEP Hydroelectric Power IWM Integrated Watershed Management JPIU Joint Programme Implementation Unit KALRO Kenya Agricultural and Livestock and Research Organisation KEFRI Kenya Forestry Research Institute KEPHIS Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service KFS Kenya Forest Service KMD Kenya Metrological Department KNCHR Kenya National Commission on Human Rights KWS Kenya Wildlife Service KWTA Kenya Water Towers Agency KVDA Kerio valley Development Authority LCLU Land Cover and Land Use MEAs Multilateral Environmental Agreements MEF Ministry of Environment and Forestry Page ix Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem MTEF Medium Term Expenditure Framework MTP 3 Medium Term Plan 3 NAAP National Adaptation Action Plan NCCAP National Climate Change Action Plan NCCS National Climate Change Strategy NCEP National and County Environmental Planning NDC Nationally Determined Contribution NDICCC National Development Implementation Communication and Coordination Committee NEAPs National Environmental Action Plans NECC National Environment Complaints Committee NEMA National Environmental Management Authority NETFUND National Environment Trust Fund NGAO National Government Administrative Offices NGOs Non-Governmental Organisations NIB National Irrigation Board PELIS Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme PES Payment for Ecosystem Services PIC Prior Informed Consent PLUP Participatory Land Use Planning POPS Persistent Organic Pollutants REDD Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation SAGAs Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies SDGs Sustainable Development Goals TEV Total Economic Value TOT Training of Trainers TVETs Technical and Vocational Education and Training UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change WRA Water Resource Authority WRUAs Water Resource Users Associations WSPs Water Service Providers WWF-K World Wide Fund for Nature Kenya Page x Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. Ministry’s Mandate The Ministry of Environment and Forestry is mandated with promoting and facilitating good governance in the protection, restoration, conservation, development and management of environment and forestry resources for equitable and sustainable development. The expected contribution of such efforts is captured in various environmental policy documents such as the Kenya Vision 2030, the Medium Term Plan 3 (MTP 3), Medium Term Expenditure Frameworks (MTEF), and the Big Four Agenda. 2. Problem of Increased Land Degradation Development and harnessing of the productive sectors such as agriculture, tourism, industry and forestry is dependent on the abundance of natural resources. Unfortunately, these resources have over the years suffered the negative effects of climate change, including increased intensity of droughts and floods. Further, and specifically in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills landscape, there have been increased cases of deforestation leading to loss of vegetation, overgrazing on grasslands, gulley erosion and invasive species. These factors often contribute to land degradation. 3. Case for a Master Plan This Integrated Master Plan offers a detailed description of actions for restoration and rehabilitation of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. It provides an overview of the importance of this ecosystem, the challenges it faces, and the need for its restoration. It also provides a legal framework for supporting the Plan, with a focus on the five conservation zones in this ecosystem: Gazetted Forests Zone (2,489-3,514 m), Uplands Zone excluding the gazetted forests (2,489-3,514 m), Escarpments Zone (1,710-2,489 m), Lowlands Zone (897-1,710m) and Riparian Areas. This zonation ensures that targeted conservation efforts are undertaken in the water tower that is strategic for each zone. For each zone, the following are provided: threats and challenges, implementation measures to curb these threats, and financing options. 4. The Cherangany-Elgeyo Location and Threats Facing it Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem traverses Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu Counties. It covers an area of 414,928 ha and consists of two water towers and 22 gazetted forest blocks. The ecosystem lies within the Lake Victoria and Rift Valley drainage basins, draining its waters to Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana. This ecosystem is an important source of water for use in domestic, irrigation, industrial, and hydro-power generation purposes. In the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, the forest cover and grassland area have been declining while cropland has been increasing. This is an indication of rising levels of degradation. The increase in population pressure and over-dependency on the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Water Tower has intensified its threats and challenges. A major threat is the poor management of Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS) which has led to encroachment on land for agriculture and settlement, illegal and over-abstraction of water, illegal logging and unsustainable harvesting of exotic trees. Other threats include planting of Eucalyptus Page xi Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem trees in water catchment areas, overgrazing, forest fires, charcoal burning, rampant firewood collection and landslides. These threats have contributed to adverse impacts on the ecosystem as evidenced by reduced forest cover, drying up of rivers and springs, unpredictable rainfall, increased landslides and declining land productivity. Climate change vulnerability also continues to present the ecosystem with extreme effects of floods and droughts that impact on the landscape and livelihoods. 5. Budget and Resource Requirements To avert these negative impacts and to ensure sustainable management of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem, an estimated budget of KES 7.485 billion is required over a ten-year period. The main interventions for which this budget will be used include community sensitization, complete gazettement of Elgeyo Hills Water Tower, conversion of plantation forests to indigenous/bamboo forests, rehabilitation of springs and rivers, capacity building, adoption of alternative of income generating activities and sources of energy, replacement of Eucalyptus trees with indigenous ones (bamboo) and continuous monitoring of the Cherangany-Elgeyo ecosystem. 6. Proposed Recommendations Based on preliminary assessment of the threats and challenges that this ecosystem faces, this Master Plan proposes the following recommendations for successful restoration and rehabilitation of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem: i. Establishment of a multi-agency team to develop an integrated conservation and management plan for the established five zones. ii. Development of a resource mobilization framework to implement the proposed Plan as well as to carry out environmental and social safeguards. iii. Undertaking of a detailed feasibility study for re-classification of plantation forests to indigenous/bamboo forests based on expert advice. This study should be subjected to an Environmental Impact Assessment as required by EMCA, 1999. iv. Signing of MoUs/MoAs with Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu counties on collaborative implementation of various initiatives in the Plan. v. Ensuring public and stakeholder participation on activities to be undertaken for successful implementation of recommended restoration efforts. vi. Development of by-laws by the County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu to govern grazing in the forests, manage natural and riverine forests, and oversee replacement of Eucalyptus trees in this zone. Page xii Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem vii. Development of an innovative management system for the escarpments and hanging valleys. viii. Implementation of recommendations of the joint report by the County Commissioners and County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet on Status Review and Rehabilitation of Fragile Ecosystems in Elgeyo-Marakwet. Page 13 CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION AND CHARACTERISATION OF DEGRADATION IN THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO LANDSCAPE 1.1 Introduction This chapter highlights the mandate of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry as the lead actor in matters of conservation and restoration. It also provides the criteria for demarcation of boundaries in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, with specific characterization of each zonation. It further specifies the goal, basis and urgency of making restorative actions in the landscape based on analyses of climate, biodiversity, socio-economic and demographic variables. All these considerations lead to characterisation of degradation in the landscape with reference to the baseline Total Economic Valuation (TEV) 1.2 Background Information The Ministry of Environment and Forestry is mandated with undertaking, among others, National Environment Policy and Management, Forestry Development Policy and Management, Development of Re-afforestation and Agro-forestry, Restoration of Strategic Water Towers, Protection and Conservation of Natural Environment, Pollution Control, Conservation and Protection of Wetlands and Climate Change affairs. These tasks contribute to the achievement of national policy aspirations including Vision 2030, MTP 3 and the Big Four Agenda. Development of this Masterplan is aligned to these policy aspirations and the associated Medium Term Expenditure Framework. Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is located along the edge of the Great Rift Valley. The Hills are made of an old fault-block formation of non-volcanic origin forming an undulating upland plateau on the western edge of the Rift Valley. It encompasses two water towers, Elgeyo and Cherangany; and 22 forest blocks. The ecosystem is a critical water catchment area for Nzoia and Kerio rivers which flow to Lakes Victoria and Turkana respectively. The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is also an important habitat for a wide range of biodiversity and harbours several regionally threatened animal and plant species. Increase in population pressure and over-dependence on the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem has intensified threats and challenges to it. The drivers include unsustainable agricultural practices, landslides, illegal logging, poor management of PELIS, overgrazing, historical land use conflicts, encroachment on forests, forest fires, planting of Eucalyptus trees, charcoal production, and destruction of the riparian areas and wetlands. Hard-felt impacts include the drying of rivers, loss of biodiversity, reduction in crop production, and destruction of property and loss of lives due to landslides. Page 14 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem In this regard, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry set up a multi-agency team whose main objective was to develop an Integrated Master Plan for the rehabilitation and restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem. The terms of reference for this task force is annexed to this report. 1.3 Scope of the Master Plan The scope of the Plan covers Elgeyo and Cherangany Hills ecosystem which traverses four counties: Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu, as shown in Figure 1. The ecosystem targeted for rehabilitation and restoration covers an estimated 507,267 ha, majority of which falls within the Elgeyo-Marakwet County. This is due to the higher level of land degradation in this region. The criteria used to delineate the boundary was based on both the administrative boundaries (Sub-locations within the area of interest) and the expanse of the ecosystem (gazetted forests1 and major rivers and their tributaries). 1 These are forests that are officially recognized as government forests. Page 15 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 1: The location of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem (Source: Kenya Water Towers Agency, 2021) Page 16 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 1.4 Goal and Objectives of the Master Plan The overall goal of the Plan is to provide an integrated framework for the rehabilitation and restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. The specific objectives of the masterplan are: i. To provide an overview of the current status of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, to identify threats facing it, and to propose intervention measures to curb these threats ii. To develop zonation for rehabilitation and restoration within Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem iii. To outline the efforts made in addressing identified threats and challenges iv. To develop an implementation and monitoring plan to guide the rehabilitation and restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem v. To develop an Integrated Master Plan for rehabilitation and restoration of Cherangany Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. 1.5 Justification for the Master Plan The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is an important natural resource cutting across four counties as listed above. The ecosystem serves more than 3 million people across these counties2. The ecosystem provides these people with water for domestic and industrial use, wood fuel, grazing area, timber for construction, medicinal herbs and sites of cultural importance. Also, the micro-climatic influence of the ecosystem provides a suitable environment for crop and animal production, guaranteeing local communities of food security. In addition, the ecosystem supports recharge of aquifers, reduces soil erosion, maintains river flow, controls landslides, protects biodiversity and facilitates carbon sequestration thereby mitigating the impacts of climate change. Further, the ecosystem supports the achievement of national agenda such as Vision 2030, Sustainable Development Goals and the Big Four Agenda through provision of water for irrigated agriculture in the lowland areas of Cherangany-Elgeyo-Hills ecosystem, thereby contributing directly to food security, and indirectly to affordable housing, manufacturing, and affordable healthcare. The Master plan will specifically contribute to the Ministry’s mandate to facilitate good governance in the protection, restoration, conservation, development and management of the environment and natural resources for equitable and sustainable development. 2 KNBS 2019. Page 17 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem However, there are several threats and challenges that actively undermine the ability of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem to perform its functions. The major challenge is increased human population which has exerted pressure on the ecosystem, leading to over exploitation of its resources. Specifically, it has led to loss of biodiversity, drying of rivers, decline in agricultural production, encroachment into ecologically sensitive areas and increased climate change-related impacts such as drought and landslides. Efforts to protect this ecosystem have been hampered by limited human capacity and resources to manage the expansive ecosystem. Therefore, the multi-stakeholder approach adopted in developing this Master Plan seeks to come up with a framework for sustainable conservation and management of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, the success of which will see the ecosystem sustainably serve those who depend on it. 1.6 Situational Analysis 1.6.1 Climate (a) Temperature The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem largely experiences cool and humid weather conditions with temperatures ranging from 14.80-280 Celsius. The dry season is from January to March. (b) Rainfall In Cherangany Hills, rainfall ranges between 400-1400 mm per annum with high peaks experienced between May and August and lower peaks from December to February. The Northern parts of the Cherangany Hills including Kapkanyar, Kiptaberr, Kapolet, and the excision area receives an average annual rainfall of between 1,219-1,424 mm while the Southern area receives an average annual rainfall of between 1,129-1,276 mm. In Elgeyo Hills, the annual average rainfall ranges between 1,200-1,700 mm. Long rains are experienced from May to July and short rains from October to December. The two rainy seasons are well distributed throughout the year. However, erratic climatic patterns possibly caused by climate change have been experienced in recent times. 1.6.2 Hydrology The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem lies within the Lake Victoria and Rift Valley drainage basins with the escarpment acting as a water divide. Rivers originating from the western side of the ecosystem drains into River Nzoia that flows into the Lake Victoria in the Lake Victoria basin, whereas those from the eastern section drain into Kerio River that discharges into Lake Turkana in the Rift Valley basin (Figure 2). Rivers from the northern side of Cherangany Hills flow into Page 18 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Turkwel (Suam) River draining into Lake Turkana. The Turkwel River is also the source of water for the Turkwel Dam which is a key source of hydro-power. There are 286 springs in the Elgeyo Hills Water Tower, out of which 229 recharge into Kerio River that drains into Lake Turkana while the remaining 57 springs drain into Sosiani River, a tributary of Nzoia River which drains to Lake Victoria3. 1.6.3 Total Economic Value of Cherangany Hills The annual Total Economic Value (TEV) of Cherangany Hills is estimated at KES 47 billion (US$470 million)4. Timber and non-timber forest products such as firewood and herbal medicine make up 16.7 percent of the ecosystem and are valued at KES 7.9 billion ($79 million) while the value from hydro-electric power generation is 13.5 percent of the TEV representing KES 6.3 billion ($63 million). Carbon sequestration is valued at KES.18.3 billion ($183 million) while oxygen generation is valued at KES.11.5 billion ($115 million). 3 KWTA. (2020) Elgeyo Hills Water Tower Status Report. 4 KWTA (2019). Status Report for Cherangany Hills Water Tower. Page 19 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 2: River Networks in Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem. (Source: Kenya Water Towers Agency, 2021). Page 20 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 1.6.4 Biodiversity (a) Flora The lower western parts of Kiptaber-Kapkanyar in Cherangany Hills are dominated by Aningeria strombosia forest, with a large area of mixed Podocarpus latifolius forest on the higher slopes. The Southern slopes have forests of Juniperus nuxia and Podocarpus falcatus. Valleys in the upper peaks shelter sizeable remnants of Juniperus - Maytenus undata-Rapanea- Hagenia5. Tree ferns comprising Cyathea manniana occur in the valleys where there are also patches of bamboo species of Arundinaria alpina. Acacia abyssinica species dominates scrubby grasslands with a diversity of lower plants. At higher altitudes, the forest is interspersed with a mixture of flourishing vegetation and swamps dominated with Lobelia aberdarica and Senecio johnstonii. The Eastern region has a mosaic of vegetation with little altitudinal zonation as a result of varied topography, changing land use practices, bush fires among other factors. In Elgeyo Hills, the vegetation consists of indigenous forests, exotic plantation forests, Bamboo, grassland and shrubs. Plantation forests are found in the gazetted forest and at the lower fringes adjacent to farmlands while dense indigenous forests are concentrated in the higher altitudes. The main plantation stands are of Cypress Pine, Eucalyptus and Grevillea robusta.6 The dominant indigenous trees are Wild Olive (Olea africana), Podocarpus spp, Albizia lebbeck, Dombeya goetzenii, Rhus natalensis, Juniperus procera, Acokanthera schimperi, Syzyguim guineense, Nuxia congesta, Ficus natalensis and Yushania alpina. The grassland mainly consists of open glades and Bamboo. (b) Fauna The cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is an important biodiversity hotspot, home to several regionally threatened animal species such as the Lammergeyer, African Crown Eagle, Red Chested Owlet, Sitatunga, Thick Billed Honey Guide and the rare De Brazzas monkey. Other wildlife found within the ecosystem are elephants, buffaloes, leopards, black and white Colobus monkeys, Oters, Genet, Mongooses and Bushbucks. It also harbours diverse insects including the endemic Capys juliae species. Threatened species found in the ecosystem include Campephaga quiscalina, Stephanoaetus coronatus, Gypaetus barbatus and Glaucidium tephronotum (recently recorded in Kapkanyar), and Indicator conirostris 7. 5 KWTA. (2020). Status Report for Cherangany Hills Water Tower. 6 Kenya Forest Service. (2015). Kaptagat Forest Management Plan. 7 GoK (2015). Cherangani Hills Forest Strategic Ecosystem Management Plan 2015-2040. Kenya Forest Service, Nairobi, Kenya Page 21 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 1.6.5 Socio-Economic Activities Mixed farming is the commonest activity in this ecosystem, with farmers practicing livestock keeping, crop production, poultry farming and bee keeping. The type of agriculture practiced in this ecosystem is influenced by altitude. Seventy-two (72) percent of the population depend on farming as source of livelihood. Food crops grown in this ecosystem include: maize, tea, pyrethrum, potatoes, vegetables, wheat, bananas, green grams, cowpeas, millet and beans; while fruit trees grown include: avocado, mangoes, passion, pawpaw, citrus, tamarind and tree tomatoes; and cash crops grown include: wheat, tea, onions, sunflower, pyrethrum, oats, tobacco and carrots. On the othe4r hand, livestock rearing and bee keeping is mainly done in the lowlands, along Kerio Valley. Livestock kept include goats, cattle, sheep and donkeys. The average land size in the highlands is approximately 0.4 ha per household while at the escarpments it decreases to about 0.2 ha per household. In the Kerio Valley, land holding increases to about 2.0 ha per household due to sparse population and unfavourable climatic condition for farming. The local communities in this area also participate in Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS) as well as free range grazing where most livestock graze and live inside the forest. 1.6.6 Human Population By 2009, the total human population of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem was 673,183 (333,967 males and 339,216 females). The population density in the area was 171 persons per square kilometre. Kapenguria and Mnagei locations in West Pokot had the highest population density while Keu and Lomut in Elgeyo-Marakwet and West Pokot counties respectively had the lowest population density (Figure 3). Dense human population in the ecosystem is clustered along the major towns such as Iten, Kapenguria and Chesoi. Areas in the higher altitudes have a high population density when compared to areas in the lower altitudes, mainly due to favourable agroecology in areas in the higher altitude. Page 22 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 3: Population Density in Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Water Tower (Census data 2009, Kenya Water Towers Agency, 2021). Page 23 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 1.6.7 The Status of Land Cover and Land Use Satellite images and aerial photographs were used to assess land cover and land use (LCLU) changes in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem between 1990 and 2019. The purpose was to determine the drivers and socio-economic impacts of LCLU changes. As of 2019, grassland was the dominant zone in the Cherangany-Elgeyo ecosystem, covering an area of 193,525 ha (46 percent), followed by cropland at 137,304 ha (33 percent) and forestland at 81,124 ha (37 percent), as shown in Figure 4. The largest proportion of the forestland is inside the gazetted forest while that of grassland and cropland is within the buffer zone (Error! Reference source not found.). Figure 4: Land cover and land use in Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem as of 2019 37% 16% 46% 0% 1% Forest Grassland Cropland Open water Otherland Page 24 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 5: Spatial presentation of land cover and land use in Cherangany-–Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem as of 2019 Page 25 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem On LCLU trend analysis, a total of 41,547 ha of forest cover was lost between 1990 and 2019. During the same period, grassland area declined by 76,757 ha while cropland increased by 115,307 ha (Figure 6). This is due to increased demand for land for agriculture and settlement which has led to encroachment, increased area under PELIS and illegal logging and overgrazing. Figure 6: Land cover and land use trends in Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem between 1990 and 2019 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000 80,000 90,000 1990 2000 2010 2014 2021 A R E A (H A ) Forest Grassland Cropland Open water Otherland Page 26 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Plate 1: Tea plantation buffer belt around Sabor forest sub-block Plate 2: Bamboo plantation along rivers 1.6.8 Degradation levels Land cover and land use maps were overlaid on slopes with a ratio of 60:40 respectively to determine the degradation status in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. The degradation level was established by ArcGIS software by computing land cover and slope variables at different segments in the landscape. Variables on land cover were captured on a Likert scale of 1-3 where 1 represented low cover and 3 high cover. Further, variables on the slope were categorized as follows: 0-30 percent to represent a slight slope, 31-60 percent to represent a medium slope and 60-100 % to represent a steep slope. The resulting scores were subjected to 60:40 ratio to represent land cover and slope respectively. This gave the final composite degradation levels on a scale of 1-3 where 1 is the lowest and 3 the highest. Results indicated that the degradation level in the Cherangany-Elgeyo ecosystem is mainly medium, covering an area of 278,825 ha (67 percent )as shown in Figure 7; whereas the area under highest levels of degradation is 62,038 ha (15 percent occasioned by steep slopes, low vegetation cover and farming activities that were mainly observed along the escarpment (Figure 8); and the area under low degradation is 73,691 ha (18 percent and is mainly located within the gazetted forest blocks. Page 27 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 7: Levels of degradation in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem 54,740 423,601 29,153 0 50,000 100,000 150,000 200,000 250,000 300,000 350,000 400,000 450,000 High Medium Low A re a (H a) Page 28 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 8: Map showing degradation levels in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem Page 29 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 2 : THE IMPORTANCE OF CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM 2.1 Assessing the Total Economic Valuation The chapter captures the usefulness of the ecosystem, highlighting how it helps in, among other uses, rain-fed and irrigated agriculture, tourism, providing context for cultural activities, and hydroelectric power generation. Consequently, this chapter provides the ‘Total Economic Valuation’ of the Cherangany Hills ecosystem, excluding the Elgeyo Hills which has not been subjected to similar valuation. Further, it identifies the potential of the ecosystem for research related activities. 2.2 Boosting Agricultural Production The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem provides the micro-climatic conditions favourable for agriculture which is a key source of livelihood for the community. The highlands have rich volcanic soils that support crop farming while the hot climatic conditions in the lowlands are conducive for goat rearing, bee farming and growing of fruits trees. Equally important is the role this ecosystem plays in providing water for irrigation, further boosting agricultural produce. An example is the Arror Irrigation scheme established along Arror River and where the growing of crops such as green grams, pawpaw, water melon, tomatoes, Mangoes and Oranges is thriving. Another example is the Turkwel dam which supports irrigation on 5,000ha of land in West Pokot. 2.3 Provision of Water for Domestic and Commercial Purposes Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is a source of rivers and water springs which are used for domestic, irrigation and industrial purposes. Water sourced from this ecosystem recharges the Chebara, Moiben, Two Rivers, Ellegirini, Kerita and Kesses dams that supply 90 percent of domestic as well as commercial water to Eldoret town while Sabor supplies water for domestic and commercial uses residents of Iten and its environs. 2.4 Provision of Water for Hydro-electric Power Generation The Turkwel dam constructed along the Turkwel River is mainly used for hydro-power generation. The dam is the third largest hydro-electric power plant in the country, with a generation capacity of 106 megawatts per day. The dam also provides water for irrigation, and supports tourism and fisheries. On the other hand, River Sosiani that drains into the Nzoia River provides water for electricity generation at Koromosho water fall. Page 30 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 2.5 Provision of Timber, Non timber and Quarry Materials The gazetted and farm forests within the ecosystem are important sources of timber, wood fuel, quarrying materials, as well non timber forest products like honey. 2.6 Provision of herbal medicine Elgeyo Hills Water Tower is an important habitat for plants with cultural and medicinal value, which include Periploca linearfolia, Vernonia auriculifera and Rhus natalensis. 2.7 Regulatory and Cultural Services of the Critical Water Catchment Areas This ecosystem is a key source of water for the trans-boundary Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana. Lake Victoria is the source of one of the longest rivers in Africa, River Nile, whose water goes to Egypt before draining into the Mediterranean Sea. On the other hand, Lake Turkana, which gets 98 percent of its water from Rivers Kerio and Turkwel, is the world’s largest permanent desert and alkaline lake and has been earmarked as a World Heritage Site. The ecosystem also supports the existence of the Lake Kamnarok, an ox-bow lake. 2.8 Support Services for Tourism, Recreation and Cultural Activities The Cherangany Hills supports important conservation areas such as Saiwa Swamp National Park, South Turkana National Reserve, Rimoi Game Reserve and Kerio Valley National Reserve that are key for tourism in the region. On the other hand, Elgeyo Hills is famous as a high-altitude training ground for athletes who flock to this region due to its ideal altitude, landscape and climatic conditions. In addition, the ecosystem provides beautiful sceneries especially along the Rift Valley escarpment, hence promoting recreational activities such as paragliding. The ecosystem also has caves, shrines, nature trails, and film making sites such as Chepkermetet view point, Chepkogel campsite and Flax recreational sites which are key to ecotourism. Parts of the ecosystem are also used for religious and cultural practices such as circumcision. The main cultural sites found there include; Masorta, Kabarkeon, Kipsaos and Chepkermetet. 2.9 Support Services to Research and Training The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem is of great importance to research and education. It provides training opportunities for students undertaking forestry courses from local universities as well as the Kenya Forestry College Londiani through practical experience at various Kenya Forest Service stations. The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) has also established technologies to demonstrate establishment and management of tree species and bamboo in this ecosystem. Page 31 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 3 : ZONATION OF CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM 3.1 Characterizing the Ecosystem This chapter provides distinctive characteristics of the ecosystem and how these have been used to establish unique zones to guide in the profiling of threats and challenges and to design appropriate interventions. 3.2 Characteristics of the Landscape The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem encompass the gazetted forest blocks and the water towers and adjacent buffer areas. This ecosystem has an elevation ranging between 1,053-2,755 m asl. Based on the elevation, expanse (land area), level of degradation and land cover, the landscape has been divided into five sub-systems as shown in Table 1 below. Table 1: Zonation criteria of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Zone Elevation (m) Area (ha) Highly degraded (ha) Land cover (ha) 1. Gazetted Forests 2,489-3,514 119,198 633 (0.5%) Forestland 67,608 (57%) Cropland 16,594 (14%) 2. Upland areas (excluding gazetted forests) 2,489-3,514 124,007 3,604 (2.9%) Forestland 8,174 (7%) Cropland 63,515 (51%) 3. Escarpments 1,710-2,489 76,259 34,160(45%) Forestland 2160 (3%) Cropland 33789 (47%) 4. Lowlands 897-1,710 85,478 22,070 (26%) Forestland 1251 (1%) Cropland 20,848 (24%) 5. Riparian areas N/A 9,986 1,568 (15%) Forestland 1,933 (19%) Page 32 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Zone Elevation (m) Area (ha) Highly degraded (ha) Land cover (ha) Cropland 552 (26%) Total 414,928 62,037 3.3 Zonation of the Ecosystem Topographical features captured in the table above have been used to zone the landscape for ease of targeted interventions. These features are unique to the highland areas, escarpment, lowland zones along the Kerio Valley and the riparian areas. Based on these categories and for the purpose of conservation, the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem has been divided into five zones as shown in the table above, also listed below: • Zone 1: Gazetted forests • Zone 2: Upland areas (excluding gazetted forests) • Zone 3: Escarpments • Zone 4: Lowland areas • Zone 5: Riparian areas These zonation makes it easy to describe the threats and challenges faced by the ecosystem, propose intervention measures, and monitor and evaluate efforts to restore and rehabilitate the ecosystem. Page 33 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Figure 9: Spatial Presentation of the Zonation of Cherangany -Elgeyo Hills ecosystem Page 34 CHAPTER 4 : POLICY AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK 4.1 Legal and Policy Backing This chapter focuses on the guidance provided by the Constitution for landscape restoration as well as the available national and county level legislative, policy, strategic and planning frameworks. It also reviews relevant global and regional policy documents as a basis for the Integrated Master Plan. 4.2 The Legislative Framework 4.2.1 The Constitution of Kenya, 2010 Part II of Chapter 5 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 has the following provisions on Environment and Natural Resources: Article 69 – Obligations in respect of the environment; Article 70 – Enforcement of environmental rights; and Article 72 – Legislation relating to the environment. Further, Article 42 of Chapter 4, Part II states that, “Every person has a right to a clean and healthy environment, which includes the right: to have the environment protected for the benefit of the present and future generations through legislative and other measures, particularly those contemplated in Article 69; and to have the obligations relating to the environment fulfilled under Article 70.” The Master Plan will align itself to these provisions in the constitution. 4.2.2 The Environmental Management and Coordination Act No. 8 of 1999 (Read together with the 2015 Amendment Act) The Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999 (EMCA, 1999) is referred to as the ‘Principal Act’ in Environmental Management and Coordination (Amendment) Act, 2015. The Act provides the establishment of an appropriate legal and institutional framework for the management of the environment and for matters connected therewith and incidental thereto. The object and purpose of the Act is to exercise general supervision and coordination over all matters relating to the environment and to be the principal instrument of Government in the implementation of all policies relating to the environment. Together with its subsidiary legislation, the Act provides for both the national and county governments to prepare Environmental Action Plans as part of mainstreaming of environmental concerns into the development planning process. In an effort to fully operationalize EMCA 1999, NEMA has developed a number of subsidiary regulations which have a bearing on wetlands management. They include: Biodiversity Regulations, 2007; Waste Management Regulations, 2006; Water Quality Regulations, 2006; EIA/EA Regulations, 2003, Wetlands Regulations, 2009; and Conservation of Biological Diversity and Resources, Access to Genetic Resources and Benefit Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Page 35 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Sharing Regulations, 2006. Implementation of the Master Plan will be guided by the provisions in the above regulations. 4.2.3 Kenya Water Towers Agency Order, 2012 Kenya Water Tower Agency (KWTA) established through the Legal Notice No. 27 of 2012 provides a legal framework for execution of its functions. The Agency is mandated with coordinating and overseeing the protection, rehabilitation, conservation, and sustainable management of Water Towers in the Country. It is also obligated to coordinate and oversee the recovery and restoration of forestlands, wetlands and biodiversity hotspots. The above mandate is provided and anchored in the proposed Water Tower Conservation and Management Bill, 2019. 4.2.4 The Environmental and Land Court Act, 2011 Article 162(2)(b) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 establishes a superior court to hear and determine disputes relating to the environment and the use and occupation of, and title to, land, and to make provision for its jurisdiction functions and powers, and for connected purposes. Lack of adherence to mitigation measures recommended in the EIA report may invite dispute against the proponent as provided for in this Act. The Master Plan will comply with guidelines provided in the EIAs. 4.2.5 The Occupational Safety and Healthy Act, 2007 The Act provides for the safety, health and welfare of workers and all persons lawfully present at workplaces. It also provides for the establishment of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health and for connected purposes. The rights of workers on farmlands need to adhere to the provisions of the Act. Any interventions that require employment of workers will adhere to the law. 4.2.6 Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013 This is an Act of Parliament that provides for the protection, conservation, sustainable use and management of wildlife in Kenya and for connected purposes. The Act applies to all wildlife resources on public, community & private land and in Kenyan territorial waters. 4.2.7 Land Act, 2012 – Read with the Subsequent Land Laws Amendment Act, 2016 The Act applies to all land declared as public land under Article 62 of the Constitution, private land under Article 64 of the Constitution, community land under Article 63 of the Constitution and any other written law relating to community land. The Act stipulates that ecologically sensitive Page 36 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem public land ought to be conserved – appropriate action will be taken to maintain public land that has endangered or endemic species of flora and fauna, critical habitats or protected areas. 4.2.8 Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016 The Act provides for guidelines and opportunities for participatory forest management and conservation. The Act anchors itself on principles of good governance, public participation, protection of indigenous knowledge and intellectual property rights particularly on forestry and international best practices in accordance with Article 10 of the Constitution. Section 22 of the Act mandates the Kenya Forestry Research Institute, established under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act, 2013, to develop research and development programmes aimed at providing information and technologies for sustainable development of forestry and allied natural resources. 4.2.9 County Government Act, 2012 The County Government Act and its subsequent amendments provides for implementation of specific government policies on environment and natural resources conservation as well as development and implementation of County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). The Act also has provisions for cooperation between the National and County Governments in conservation of the environment. 4.2.10 Agricultural Act, 2012 The Agriculture Act (Cap 318) prohibits cultivation on slopes between 12-35% percent unless the soil is protected from erosion. This is intended to prevent the destruction and loss of vegetation cover on lands with slopes exceeding 35 percent. In addition, the Agriculture (Farm Forestry) Rules, 2009 aim to protect riverbanks, shorelines, riparian and wetland areas. The rules further prohibit growing or maintaining any Eucalyptus species in wetlands and riparian areas. 4.2.11 Water Act, 2016 According to this Act, “‘Water Resource’ means any lake, pond, swamp, marsh, stream, watercourse, estuary, aquifer, artesian basin or other body of flowing or standing water, whether above or below the ground.” The Act establishes Water Resource Authority (WRA) as the Agent of the National Government responsible for regulating the use of water resources. Page 37 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 4.3 Guiding Policy Documents 4.3.1 National Environment Policy, 2013 The goal of this Policy is to have a better quality of life for present and future generations through sustainable management and use of the environment and natural resources. It provides guidelines required for legislation and a framework for planning and implementation of environmental undertakings. This forms the basis for the Master Plan to intervene on the degraded ecosystem. 4.3.2 National Land Policy, 2007 The objective of this policy is to develop a framework of policies and laws designed to ensure the maintenance of a system of land administration and management that will provide: (i) all citizens, particularly the poor, with the opportunity to access and beneficially occupy and use land; (ii) an economically, socially equitable and environmentally sustainable allocation and use of land; and (iii) the efficient, effective and economical operation of the land market. In addition, the policy accords greater equity of access to land resources. 4.4 Relevant Strategies and Plans 4.4.1 The Kenya Vision 2030 The Kenya Vision 2030 is a development blueprint for the period 2008-2030. It focuses on three pillars – economic, social and political. The sector on the environment falls under the social pillar. In it, the vision for the environmental sector is “a people living in a clean, secure and sustainable environment.” Therefore, it requires the need for equity in access to the benefits of a clean environment. It stipulates how the Country will intensify conservation of strategic natural resources like forests, water towers, wildlife sanctuaries and marine ecosystems sustainably and without compromising economic growth. The country intends to have achieved ten percent (10 percent) forest cover by 2030 and the Plan will demonstrate its contribution to this vision. 4.4.2 The Sustainable Development Goals, 2016-2030 The global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to transform the world socially and economically. The achievement of this goal dependent on sustainable management and utilization of natural resources which form the basis of wealth and health. Page 38 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 4.4.3 National Environment Action Plan (NEAP) NEAP was first established in Kenya in 1994 in fulfilment of Agenda 21 of the Rio summit of 1992 (Rio Declaration on Environment and Development). It provides for National and County Environmental Planning (NEAPs) and (CEAPs) and Strategies. The identified irrigation works will adhere to strategies in these plans. 4.4.4 Ministry of Environment and Forestry Strategic Plan 2018-2022 The Strategic Plan identifies four areas of interest: environmental conservation; management and conservation of forest and biodiversity; climate change and its impact; and governance, research and institutional framework. The Master Plan is designed to conform to these provisions. 4.4.5 National Climate Change Action Plan 2018-2022 National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP), 2018-2022 is the second action plan that supports the Country’s development goals. It builds on the first Action Plan (2013-2017). The NCCAP 2018-2022 outlines mechanisms and measures to achieve low carbon climate resilient development in a manner that prioritizes adaptation. It also provides a framework for Kenya to deliver on its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In addition, the Action Plan guides on the climate actions to be undertaken by the National Government, County Governments, Private sector, Civil society and other actors as Kenya transitions to a low carbon climate resilient development pathway. NCCAP has three volumes of which Volume II entail Adaptation Technical Analysis Report, while Volume III Mitigation Technical Analysis Report. 4.4.6 County Integrated Development Plans 2018-2022 Article 108 of the County Government Act requires County Governments to develop a five-year County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). The Plan guides development over a five-year period and integrates all the sector frameworks. It also provides for integration of the environment and natural resource conservation into county frameworks. The Kenya's Public Finance Management Act provides for guidance in appropriation of resources in line with the county's planning framework. In this regard, there exist CIDP for 2018-2022 for the County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Trans-Nzoia, Uasin Gishu and West Pokot. These documents will be key in the involvement of the four County Government. Page 39 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 4.4.7 Nationally Determined Contributions At 0.1 percent of the total global emissions, Kenya’s emission contribution is low, with the per capita emissions standing at less than 1.26 MtCO2eq compared to the global average of 7.58 MtCO2eq 1. Nevertheless, Kenya places a high priority on response to climate change. In order to meet the below 2°c objective, there are a number of key initiatives including but not limited to the National Climate Change Strategy, National Climate Change Action Plan, National Adaptation Action Plan and the Climate Change Act. Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) includes both mitigation and adaptation components based on the national circumstances and in line with UNFCC decisions. Kenya seeks to undertake mitigation contribution towards the 2015 Agreement and seeks to abate its GHG emissions by 32 percent by 2030 relative to the BAU scenario of 143 MtCO2eq, and in line with its sustainable development agenda. This is also subject to international support in the form of finance, investment, technology development and transfer, and capacity building. The Country implements its Climate Change Action Plan through various sectors including energy sector, Innovations, public sector reforms, climate proofing key sectors, enabling conditions for private sector, devolved functions, financial sector. 4.4.8 Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan 2018-2030 The Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan (GESIP) is a guiding tool for Kenya’s transition to a low carbon, resource efficient equitable and inclusive socio-economic transformation as well as attainment of Vision 2030. It supports development efforts towards addressing key challenges such as poverty, unemployment, inequality, environmental degradation, climate change and variability, infrastructure gaps and food insecurity. 4.4.9 National Strategy for Achieving and Maintaining over 10 percent Tree Cover by 2022 The main goal of this Strategy is to accelerate actions towards the achievement of Constitution requirement, Vision 2030 and Presidential Directive of 10 percent National tree cover for environmental integrity and social economic development. The Strategy focuses on production of 1.8 Billion quality seedlings by 2022; enhancing conservation and protection of natural forests on public, community and private lands and rehabilitation of degraded areas; enhanced national tree planting campaigns through national and county tree planting events, public education, awareness and sensitization; adoption of alternative and efficient energy sources; and innovative restoration programs such as Greening Kenya Initiative, Adopt a Forest Concept as well as Environmental Soldier Program. The implementation of this Plan will contribute to achievement of the 10 percent tree cover target. 4.5 Multilateral Environmental Agreements Page 40 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Kenya is a signatory to several Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) that address several sectors of the environment. These include: • Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) 1994 and Nagoya Protocol • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) 1997 • The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 1992 • The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance 1975, also referred as the Ramsar Convention • The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer 1990 • Convention on International Trade on Endangered Species (CITES) 1978 • Rotterdam Convention on Prior Informed Consent (PIC) 2005 • Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPS) 2004 • Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) / the Bonn Convention. Through these conventions, Kenya has made a commitment to take up practical measures to protect and conserve the environment as a global partner of civilized nations. Some environmental issues are cross national boundaries and international cooperation is required to address them. MEAs compel countries to promote and establish management frameworks through which to structure practical international activity with respect to environmental protection and conservation. Page 41 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 5: THREATS AND CHALLENGES FACING THE CHERANGANY-ELGEYO HILLS ECOSYSTEM 5.1 Some Key Threats This chapter highlights the key threats and challenges facing the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. Notably, each distinctive zone faces different threats, including those facing the gazetted forests, issues of management, illegal logging, boundary issues and many others as further outlined in this chapter. 5.2 Zone 1: Challenges Facing Gazetted Forests This zone covers an area of 119,198 ha with an altitude of 2,489-3,514m asl. Some of the challenges facing this zone are as follows: i. Poor management of the Plantation Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (PELIS) The poor management of PELIS coupled with increased population and demand for land for crop production has contributed to ballooning of the area under PELIS. This has resulted in forest fragmentation and degradation, consequently contributing to the increase in area under cropland in the gazetted forests. Kapchemutwa, Kipkabus Kaptagat, Sabor, Penon, and Cherangany have the largest proportion of forest plantation established through PELIS. In some cases, farmers have extended their tenure beyond the given 3 years, which has affected quality of plantation due to low survival rates. In addition, some of the areas from which harvests have been made are yet to be planted, increasing current unstocked areas. ii. Illegal logging Increased demand for fuelwood, timber and construction materials has led to illegal logging of both exotic and indigenous tree species. A socio-economic study conducted in 2019 established that about 68 percent of the houses in the area are semi-permanent with wooden walls8. It was noted that most such households acquire the construction materials from the nearby state forest blocks. In addition, increased charcoal production and firewood collection has exacerbated this threat affecting tree species distribution and density. Trees such as red cedar (Juniperus procera), Real yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius), Elgon teak, Olea africana, Prunus africana, Polyscias 8 KWTA. (2019). The Community Resource Assessment for Elgeyo Hills Water Tower Page 42 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem kikuyuensis and Dendrosenecio cheranganiensis have reduced in numbers due to their over exploitation. iii. Unclear forest boundaries Unclear forest block boundaries in Cherangany-Elgeyo hills have contributed to encroachment on forest land. Most of the forest blocks do not have visible boundaries or beacons delineating the boundary between the gazetted forest and community land. This has encouraged encroachment as people claim not to know where forests begin and end. In addition, efforts to re-align the boundaries of these forests have been unsuccessful as neighbouring communities have resisted such a move. iv. Encroachment Population increase and continuous land sub-division have resulted in rising demand for land for agriculture and settlement, leading to encroachment. Also, fragmentation of land into smaller sizes has rendered some parcels inadequate to meet the economic needs of the households leading to farming in critical, fragile ecosystems and the forest. The result has been reduction in forest cover, loss of several species, landslides, and flooding and drying of rivers and springs. The most affected areas in this regard are Kipkabus, Lelan, Embobut, Cherangany, and Cheptongei. v. Unsustainable commercial harvesting of timber There are over fifty registered saw millers in this ecosystem with about ten in Keiyo South Sub county alone. The major companies involved in this business include Raiply, Savanna, Flax, Merist, Nyaru, and Tipsy Preservatives Company. Although most of these companies depend on plantation forest, harvesting is done on large scales leaving huge backlogs hence causing a reduction in forest cover. vi. Forest fires Most forest fires within the Cherangany-Elgeyo ecosystem are mainly human induced and deliberate. Most local communities along the escarpment practice slash-and-burn to prepare land for planting season, and use fire during honey harvesting and to spur up grass growth. These fires often end up spread into forested areas. Arsonists also use fires to divert attention from the illegal activities being carried out in the forest. Forest fires have led to destruction of vegetation and biodiversity. In 1986, forest fire in Cherangany destroyed hundreds of hectares in Kapkanyar forest. Fortunately, forest fires have gradually reduced due to enhanced collaboration between different actors to protect forests. vii. Planting of Eucalyptus trees in water catchment areas Eucalyptus is one of the dominant species in the plantation forests in Kaptagat. Some of these trees were planted in critical water catchment areas to serve the railway services in the colonial era. Despite their quick growth and financial returns, these trees have high water uptake thus reducing Page 43 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem water capacity in the area. This has also led to drying up of some springs, swamps and streams in the water tower. viii. Overgrazing Free ranging is the major form of grazing practiced in areas around this ecosystem, especially in Kessup, Kaptagat, Embobut, Lelan and Kamatira forest blocks. Normally, high number of livestock are moved to graze and live inside the forest. When these large herds of animals graze in gazetted forests, they trample and browse on young saplings, hampering natural re-generation and rehabilitation efforts. For instance, in Elgeyo Water Tower, about 2,400 heads of cattle and a substantial number of goats graze inside the forest daily9. This trend has been exacerbated by limited enforcement of grazing plans including the lack of grazing fee. ix. Weak law enforcement and governance structures There is weak enforcement of laws resulting from overlapping mandates and sometimes, integrity issues. In addition, institutions charged with enforcement have limited capacity in terms of staffing, equipment and resources. 5.3 Zone 2: Challenges in Upland Areas (Excluding the Gazetted Forests) This zone covers an area of 124,007 ha with an altitude of 2,489-3,514m asl. Most of the challenges in this zone are similar to those witnessed in Zone 1. These and other challenges are illuminared below: i. Unsustainable agricutural practices Farming which is a major source of livelihood in the area utilizes agrochemicals such as fertilizers which lead to pollution of water sources. In addition, poor farming practices has led to increased soil erosion thus impacting on the state of rivers and springs in the area. ii. Planting of exotic trees Increased demand for timber, exacerbated by the current moratorium on harvesting of gazetted forest plantations, has led to widespread growing of exotic trees such as Eucalyptus, Pines and Cypress on farmlands. Although, these trees increase the vegetation cover in the area, once they are harvested the land remains bare leading to massive soil erosion that results in landslides. 9 KWTA (2019). Community Resource Assessment for Elgeyo Hills Water Tower. Page 44 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Plate 3: Pine and Cypress trees Plate 4: Eucalyptus trees planted within farmlands in the Ecosystem iii. Fire outbreaks The local community uses slash-and-burn method for bush clearance in preparation for planting season, leading to fires sometimes spreading beyond the farms into the forest. This mainly occurs during dry seasons of January, March, June and September. iv. Overgrazing Livestock keeping is one of the main economic activities in these areas. Places like Kapkanyar, Kapteren, Kapkoi, and Kibonge in Cherangany Hills border areas occupied by the pastoralist communities from West Pokot. As the population outside the forest increases, the available land for pasture diminishes, subsequently causing increased pressure on available land. Page 45 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem v. Poor domestication of national policies at the county level Most counties including the ones under focus have limited capacity to domesticate national policies such as EMCA and to provide for establishment of County Environmental Committees. Enforcement of regulations including charcoal rules and sand harvesting is dismal. This has led to over exploitation of resources. vi. Limited agricultural extension services There is limited awareness and enforcement of agricultural laws thus increasing cases of farming on steep slopes beyond 55 degrees. In addition, training on conservation agricultural practices such as crop rotation and terracing may not have achieved the desired results. This may be due to limited number of staff to carry out extension services, lack of vehicles and insufficient budgetary allocation to facilitate training programs. 5.4 Zone 3: Challenges in Escarpments This zone covers an area of 76,259 ha with an altitude of 1,710-2,489m asl. The following are the main challenges facing this zone: i. Farming and settlement on steep slopes The largest part of escarpments in the Cherangany-Elgeyo ecosystem falls under private and/or community lands. Local communities are farming and have settled at the steep slopes, highly contributing to land degradation. This has also led to deforestation, soil erosion, gullies and landslides. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that sustainable land management practices such as terracing is rarely done along this area. Plate 5: Settlement located on steep slopes Page 46 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Plate 6: Farming activities on steep slopes ii. Slash-and-burn farming method Most of the local communities in the area prepare land for cultivation using the slash-and-burn method. This leads to fire outbreaks in the area and also leaves the land bare causing massive soil erosion. Plate 7: Slash-and-burn on steep slopes iii. Landslides Unsustainable land management practices such as farming on steep slopes, increased planting of Eucalyptus trees, and minimal practice of conservation agriculture like terracing and intensive conventional tillage has caused landslides at the escarpment and erosion in the lowland areas. This has led to increased surface flow due to limited vegetation cover and reduced infiltration of rain water. Some of the areas in which these challenges were mainly observed are Chesegon, Kamogich, Kocholwo, Soy, Kibargoi and Turesia. In Chesegon area in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, for example, mudslides caused by heavy rains have led to destruction of life and property in Liter Secondary School and its environs. In Kapchelal and Anin areas still in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, cracks have emerged on the earth surface. The impact of this has been reduced agricultural Page 47 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem productivity, disruption of transportation network such as roads, and formation of deep gullies in the lowland areas. Plate 8: Landslides along the escarpment in Kimogich area Plate 9: Landslides area in Kamogich and Kocholwo location Page 48 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Plate 10: Landslides from the escarpment along Kabokbok River Plate 11: Beehives carried downstream by landslides in Soy location iv. Charcoal production and rampant firewood collection Overdependence on wood fuel has led to increased charcoal production and rampant firewood collection in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, thereby contributing to degradation. Ready market for these products especially in urban towns such as Eldoret, Kitale and Iten has aggravated the situation. v. Limited agricultural extension services There is limited awareness of agricultural laws that prohibit farming on steep slopes of more than 55 degrees, and there is lack of training on conservation agricultural practices such as crop rotation and terracing. This is mainly due to limited number of staff to carry out extension services, lack of vehicles and insufficient budgetary allocation to facilitate training programmes. vi. Land tenure system and adjudication of ecologically sensitive areas Most lowland areas are under communal (clan) land tenure system. As a result, communities view the escarpment as part of their land, and freely encroach on it. It has also been reported that there are areas where land was adjudicated to ecologically sensitive zones such as the riparian areas, steep hills and swamps, hence a threat to the ecosystem. vii. Poor domestication of national policies at the county level Most Counties including those under focus have limited capacity to domesticate national policies such as EMCA that provide for establishment of County Environmental Committees, enforcement of charcoal rules and regulation on sand harvesting. This has led to overexploitation of natural resources. Page 49 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 5.5 Zone 4: Challenges in Lowland areas This area has an elevation of 897-1,710 m asl and covers an area of 85,478 ha. Key challenges facing this ecosystem are as follows: i. Overgrazing This zone is mainly suitable for rearing of livestock such as goats and sheep. As a result, the local communities keep large herds of livestock that leads to overstocking thus overgrazing. This contributes to ecosystem degradation through soil erosion, cutting of tree branches to provide fodder for livestock, loss of biodiversity and degradation of critical water catchments. ii. Unregulated, illegal charcoal production and rampant firewood collection Increased charcoal production and rampant firewood collection caused by overdependence on wood fuel has contributed to degradation of the Elgeyo-Cheragany Hills ecosystem. The ready market for these products especially in urban towns such as Eldoret, Kitale and Iten has aggravated the situation. Some of the areas where charcoal production and firewood collection take place illegally and excessively include Kamogen, Kiptingo, Kapkoi and Kamogich. Plate 12: Charcoal burning within the buffer zone iii. Gulley erosion Deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices cause loss of vegetation cover upstream. This in turn causes high levels of soil erosion which leads to formation of deep gullies. Gulleys interfere with wildlife corridors. For instance, they hamper the movement of Elephants between Nasolot, Lake Turkana National Park and Rimoi National Reserve. There have also been cases of deaths and injuries from falling debris as well as displacement of communities. Page 50 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 5.6 Zone 5: Challenges in the Riparian areas Riparian areas cover approximately 9,986 ha in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. The main challenges facing this zone are given below: i. Farming along the riparian area Extensive crop cultivation has led people to farm on river banks. As a result, pollution from agro chemicals and siltation due to soil erosion have greatly affected riparian zones. Plate 13: Cultivation along the streams and swamps ii. Illegal abstraction and over-abstraction of water Illegal abstraction and over-abstraction of water from springs, wetlands and rivers for domestic, industrial and irrigation purposes have reduced water supply downstream. In addition, most of the water pipes installed in rivers and springs have not been licensed and are not metered. In many cases, this allows those upstream to harvest large volumes of water, leaving very little water to run downstream. This often leads to conflicts between communities on either side. iii. Eucalyptus trees plantation on riparian areas Despite their fast-growing rate and quick return, Eucalyptus trees have high water uptake thus reducing the water yield capacity in the area. This has also led to drying up of some springs, swamps and streams within the water tower. Page 51 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Plate 14: Eucalyptus trees planted within and around a swamp in Kitany Location iv. Poor domestication of national policies at the county level Most Counties including those under focus have limited capacity to domesticate national policies such as EMCA that provide for establishment of County Environmental Committees, enforcement of charcoal rules and regulation on sand harvesting. This has led to overexploitation of resources. v. Cattle rustling and insecurity along the Kerio Valley Around Elgeyo and Cherangany, cattle rusting was traditionally considered a cultural practice to restock cattle. In recent times, however, the practice has been hijacked by wealthy businessmen and bandits who use it as an opportunity to acquire large numbers of stocks which they then sell. This has heightened insecurity and has led to displacement of vulnerable members of the community. vi. Siltation of dams down stream There are a number of irrigation schemes downstream which depend on water from the catchment, but clogging of furrows and high sediment loads pose a challenge as they increase operation costs for the proper functioning of these dams. Page 52 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 6 : EFFORTS TO ADDRESS THREATS AND CHALLENGES 6.1 Various Stakeholder Efforts This chapter outlines the major efforts towards the rehabilitation and restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem, the achievements, and the organisations concerned. Instructively, various efforts have been undertaken by stakeholders including KWTA, KFS, ELDOWAS, NEMA, KEFRI, CFAs, and WRUAs to address threats to the sustainable management of the ecosystem. These efforts have aimed at rehabilitating and restoring the ecological integrity of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. The various efforts so far undertaken are summarised in the table 2 herebelow: Table 2: Stakeholders Interventions in Restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Water Ecosystem EFFORT ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY/AGENCIES INVOLVED Water Tower Resource Assessment • Determined the status of Elgeyo and Cherangany Hills Water Towers • Mapped and prioritized critical catchment areas within the Elgeyo Hills Water Tower • Developed an Ecosystem Conservation Plan for the Elgeyo Hills Water Tower KWTA, KEFRI, KFS, Nature Kenya The EU Project on Water Towers Protection and Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Supported the eradication of poverty through enhancing the productivity of ecosystem services in Mt Elgon and Cherangany and its ecosystems covering 11 counties. This was done through: • Establishment of demonstration plots for bamboo and other trees/plants in rehabilitating degraded sites • Mapping of degraded hot spots and recommended tree species for rehabilitating the sites • Identification and promotion of non-timber forest products for improvement of livelihoods • Demonstration of the use of bamboo and other indigenous species to rehabilitate riverine forests • Undertaking studies on management of invasive species • Demonstrating alternative sustainable sources of energy to reduce reliance on wood Ministry of Environment and Forestry, KWTA, KWS, KEFRI, KFS, NCCS Page 53 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem EFFORT ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY/AGENCIES INVOLVED Ongoing gazettement of Elgeyo Hills Forests and Water Tower Undertaking of public participation with stakeholders and communities KWTA, KFS Bamboo Investment and Commercialization Project • Held Stakeholder consultative and engagement forums • Conducted bamboo stock assessment in Elgeyo Hills Water Towers • Mapped degraded catchments and Bamboo potential areas within the ecosystem • Conducted a feasibility study Model on Bamboo Investment and Commercialization project in Kaptagat (Elgeyo Hills) and developed a Bamboo business Model • Environmental and Socio-Economic Impact Assessment for fencing of project demo site • Establishment of 100 Hectares Bamboo demo site in Kaptagat • Established community-based Bamboo Nursery • Launched the National Bamboo Demo Site KWTA, KEFRI, KFS, KEFRI, BAK, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu Community sensitization and conservation of water catchment and riparian areas • Promoted best farming practices in the catchment area • Indigenous trees and Bamboo were planted on the catchment areas and sewer treatment plants while exotic trees were planted down streams • Support and participation in the annual Kaptagat Conservation marathon and Uasin Gishu Conservation marathon ELDOWAS, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo Marakwet and Trans-Nzoia WRUAs, KEFRI, CFAs, KFS, KFS, NEMA Adopt-a-forest block programme • Partnerships with individuals and institutions in restoration of degraded forest blocks: Eliud Kipchoge Foundation adopted 50.8 ha while University of Eldoret adopted 1000 ha of sections of the degraded forest blocks that rehabilitation and conservation. • Uasin Gishu county, Kenya Meteorological Department and NEMA is planning to adopt a block in Kaptagat for rehabilitation and conservation. • KVDA have adopted part of Cherangany Hills, 259 ha in Lelan Forest where 20 ha has been planted, and also 13 ha in Kipkabus Forest KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet and Uasin Gishu Page 54 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem EFFORT ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY/AGENCIES INVOLVED Promotion of tree and fruit tree nurseries • CFAs promote tree nurseries establishment among their members • There are many (more than 100) tree nurseries with exotic and indigenous tree & fruits seedlings operated by KFS KFS, CFAs, KEFRI, WRUAs. CBOs, NETFUND, KVDA, World Vision Community Livelihood initiatives Initiated livestock improvement programs and provision of milk cooling plants County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet. Uasin Gishu and Trans-Nzoia, CBOs Planting 80,000 tree seedlings in individual farms and distributed improved cook stoves to the communities to curb on carbon emissions as well as to reduce the pressure on fuel wood Trans-Nzoia County, CBOs Promotion of traditional irrigation systems and pasture establishment systems, KAPSLM West Pokot County, Elgeyo Marakwet county, KVDA, CBOs • Promotion of bamboo and mango tree seedling growing • Establishment of fruit tree nurseries in Tot, Arror, Kipsaos and Kimwarer • Setting up of irrigation schemes in Arror, Napuu, Tot and Weiwei for livelihood improvement • Establishment of a honey processing centre with a capacity of 100 tonnes in Kabarnet as well as a fully equipped wood workshop where modern beehives (Kenya Top Bar Hives and Langstroth) are produced for sale to farmers. KVDA, NGOs, CBOs, KEFRI, County Governments of West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo Promotion of programs towards wildlife conservation • Partnered with 36 community-based groups by supporting them to make ornaments like beads and establishment of curio shops as an alternative income generating activities in Elgeyo-Marakwet to reduce grazing activities. There was also establishment of traditional beehives inside the wildlife reserve. • Drilled two boreholes to supplement water from River Kerio during dry season for wildlife KWS, CBOs, Ministry of Water and Irrigation Page 55 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem EFFORT ACHIEVEMENTS AGENCY/AGENCIES INVOLVED • There is a plan in progress to fence the reserve in Kapnarok to control human-wildlife conflicts • Building of four classrooms, one dormitory and provision of water tanks in some schools • Supported ‘trees for schools’ programme Eldoret-Iten Water Fund • The Nature conservancy is spearheading this initiative • Key focal areas are restoration of Moiben and Sosiani river catchment areas • Feasibility and design phase concluded The Nature Conservancy, KWTA, KFS, County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, WSPs, KVDA Kaptagat Annual Tree Planting • Rehabilitation efforts by buying tree seedling from community groups for rehabilitating forest blocks and tree planting initiatives in Kaptagat • Planting done in 210 ha since 2017 • Mobilized stakeholders, both local and national • Raised public awareness to inculcate tree growing in the region WWF, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI, County Governments of Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans-Nzoia, West Pokot Page 56 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 7 : RECOMMENDED INTERVENTIONS 7.1 The Importance of Focus on Individual Zones This chapter outlines expert and stakeholder recommendations for rehabilitating and restoring the Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem. Since each of the five zones in this ecosystem faces some unique threats and challenges as outlined in chapter five, the intervention measures proposed here similarly focus on individual zones. 7.2 Zone 1: Recommendations for the Gazetted Forests The following measures are recommended for the rehabilitation and restoration of degraded Gazetted Forest areas: i. Rehabilitation and restoration of deforested and degraded areas Based on existing plans, rehabilitation and restoration of deforested and degraded areas within the gazetted forest blocks should be carried out. It is recommended that as much as possible, indigenous trees or bamboo are introduced depending on where they thrive best. In addition, boundaries of forest blocks will be secured through realignment, beaconing and titling. Furthermore, previously encroached areas within gazetted forest areas should be rehabilitated in the same manner. ii. Institutional strengthening Local based conservation organizations such as CFAs and WRUAs should be strengthened to enhance implementation of restoration and conservation efforts in this zone. This will also ensure proper management and utilization of forest and forest products. In addition, relevant county level institutions will need capacity building to enable better coordination of rehabilitation and restoration practices. iii. Afforestation and re-afforestation efforts Landscape approach campaigns for afforestation and re-afforestation exercises will be rolled out in bare areas within the gazetted forest zone. This exercise will target areas with planting backlog and those that have been overgrazed. In addition, potential areas for natural regeneration will also be profiled and left to regenerate. iv. Reclassification of plantation forest to indigenous/bamboo forest areas There is need to consider re-classification of gazetted forest areas and certain plantation forests to indigenous forest. Before this can be done, however, there is need to conduct a detailed participatory feasibility study on conversion of plantation forest to indigenous forest and where necessary undertake the ESIA process as stipulated in the EMCA (Amended, 2015) and other Page 57 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem relevant laws. The reclassification process will be done using indigenous species well adapted to the selected sites in the ecosystem. v. Establishment of public-private partnerships Various private companies like saw millers, other wood-based industries, WSPs, HEP producers, tea factories, fruit processing companies and dairy cooling plants benefit from the ecosystem. In this regard, it is recommended that partnership with these private companies should be created to support conservation of the forest. vi. Addressing historical land tenure issues There is need to address historical land tenure issues in the area through participatory approaches, boundary re-alignment and implementation of a dedicated titling program. These historical land tenure cases in Cherangany-Elgeyo require robust approaches such as free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) involving community participation. The titling programme will target areas that have unfinalized forest exchanges, excisions and encroachments including Tingwa/Chesubet farm, 428 parcels enlisted (extensions); Tingwa/Kibonge farm, 164 parcels enlisted (extensions); Metkei, 50 ha; Tumeiyo, 40 ha; Tingwa Kimwogo farm, 60 parcels enlisted; Kapchorwa/Simotwo farm, 194 parcels enlisted; HZ Area, 30 ha designated as the Administration and Commercial Centre for Maoi and Kabiemit locations; Marichor farm curved from Kaptagat forest, 614 parcels enlisted; Kiptulos farm curved from Penon forest, 34 parcels enlisted; Chepkikwai/Kapolo farm, 76 parcels enlisted; Embobut; Lelan forest; Kapolet and other areas. vii. Establishment of individual, communal and institutional tree nurseries This initiative will ensure adequate provision of seedlings for continuous afforestation, re afforestation and rehabilitation programmes in this zone, thereby increasing tree cover. The largest percentage of the nurseries will be composed of indigenous tree species and bamboo based on species-site matching guidelines developed by KEFRI. In addition, the uptake from these nurseries will ensure greening initiatives in schools, churches, market centers/municipalities and avenue planting along major roads. 7.3 Zone 2: Recommendations for Upland Areas (excluding gazetted forests) The following measures are recommended for the rehabilitation and restoration of Upland Areas: i. Promotion of agroforestry Agroforestry provides alternatives to forest related products. The fast-growing trees on farms carry with them socio-economic and environmental benefits. Training on establishment of tree nurseries and maintenance of the trees will be done through the Community Forest Associations and Water Resource Users Associations. This will ensure sustainable use of soil and water resources; increase availability of wood products like wood fuel; and grant the community access to some non-wood forest products like fodder and food products. Agroforests will also provide habitats for certain Page 58 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem species thus alleviating pressure on natural forests. Establishing extensive agroforests will also help this region to achieve and maintain a minimum of 10 percent tree cover in private farms. ii. Sustainable forest management Embracing a holistic approach encompassing economic, social, legal, administrative, technical and environmental aspects of conservation and use of forests will promote sustainable use of the ecosystem. These approaches include integration of indigenous management methods of forest management and community forest management as well as establishment of commercial tree woodlots in farmlands to support the demand for timber and poles. It will therefore build on strategies to achieve and maintaining 10 percent tree cover in private land. iii. Restoration and rehabilitation of critical catchment areas The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills is a source numerous springs, swamps and rivers which can be easily overexploited and degraded by human-related activities. Therefore, these sources of water and their catchments will be prioritized for protection and regular monitoring to ensure their sustainability. iv. Promotion of alternative community livelihood programs The community around this ecosystem primarily practices small-scale farming of such crops as potatoes, fruits, maize in addition to livestock farming. Therefore, suitable value chains will be developed to build the community’s capacity and to embrace the rolled out alternative sources of income generation. This will focus on: • Honey production • Bamboo establishment and commercialization • Commercialization of medicinal plants • Establishment of aquacultures • Promotion of improved livestock breeds • Intensive dairy production • Provision of livestock buyback programs • Promotion of orphan crops suitable for this region v. Promotion of programmes on alternative sources of energy Wood fuel is the main source of energy used in most households. To ensure conservation of this ecosystem and to reduce pressure on the forest, the adoption of alternative sources of energy such as the use of energy-saving stoves and alternative, renewable sources of energy which include solar, biogas and micro hydro power units will be promoted in the ecosystem. vi. Benefit-sharing schemes Incentivizing conservation efforts through benefit-sharing schemes will encourage sustainable land practices and promote conservation of the ecosystem. Schemes to be exploited and adopted include: Page 59 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem • Water Fund programs – the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund has already been established • Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) • Carbon markets • Payments for Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD and REDD+) • Clean development Mechanisms These schemes will ensure improvement of water supply downstream to due to their contributions to upstream watershed management. vii. Establishment of tree nurseries This initiative will ensure continuous afforestation, re-afforestation and rehabilitation exercises in this zone hence increasing tree cover. Seedlings will be composed of indigenous, fruits and fodder trees as enlisted in the species matching of the area. viii. Establishment of public-private partnerships There are various saw millers and companies that depend on this ecosystem for timber and raw products respectively. This has contributed to growing of trees mainly of exotic species such as Cypress, Pine and Eucalyptus within farmlands. Public-private partnership can be initiated through the County Governments for these companies and millers to support conservation efforts in the area. This will be supported by the establishment of tree nurseries and provision of incentives to conservation champions. ix. Re-adjudication and mapping of ecologically sensitive areas All land parcels allotted in ecologically sensitive areas such as steep slopes, hilltops and along riparian areas and wetland should be re-adjudicated and mapped for conservation. There is also need for the concerned counties to implement the Community Land Act, 2016 for proper management of community lands. 7.4 Zone 3: Recommendations for Escarpments The following measures are recommended for the rehabilitation and restoration of Escarpments: i. Promotion of agroforestry and farm forestry Planting of trees within farms and on bare land and overgrazed areas along the escarpment will reduce environmental degradation. This will also increase the forest cover in this zone. ii. Promotion of soil conservation measures such as terracing Soil and water conservation structures will reduce soil erosion on the escarpment. These practices include fanya juu/terraces, stone lines, reverse-slope bench terraces, fanya chini/retention ditches, vegetative barriers, grasses or trees that may eventually form bunds and terraces due to the down slope movement of soil during cultivation. Page 60 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem iii. Adoption of conservation agriculture Adoption of conservation agriculture in the escarpments will aid in preserving the soil, maintaining the natural and biological status of the soil water and preventing damage to soil structure through minimum cultivation and direct planting by repetitive cultivation. It will also maintain vegetation cover to improve soil structure, infiltration, and reduce erosion by water and wind. Some of these practices include organic farming, crop rotations, fallowing and mulching. iv. Addressing historical land issues along the escarpment To manage the issue of settlement and faming along the escarpment, there is need to address historical land issues in the area. This will be done through participatory approach as well as re alignment and establishment of the ‘Spencer’ line. Therefore, a committee will be established to look into these historical cases along the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem. v. Institutional capacity strengthening for improved participatory management of escarpments Actions to strengthen institutions include: • Supporting capacity building activities, for instance public awareness campaigns and sensitization programmes before roll out of any implementation plans in the escarpments • Undertaking a participatory mapping of households settled in risk-prone areas such as within the perimeter of the ‘Spencer line’ • Developing and implementing a participatory relocation plan of all mapped households in risk-prone areas • Establishing and implementing County Escarpment Management Plans in line with Community Land Act, 2016. vi. Re-adjudication and mapping of ecologically sensitive areas All parcels of land allotted in ecologically sensitive areas such as steep slopes, hilltops and along riparian areas and wetlands should be re-adjudicated and mapped for conservation. There is also need for the concerned counties to implement the Community Land Act, 2016 for proper management of community lands. 7.5 Zone 4: Recommendation for Lowland areas The following measures are recommended for the rehabilitation and restoration of Lowland Areas: i. Gulley rehabilitation This will be achieved through re-vegetation of degraded areas along with structural barriers by using species such as Vetiver grass. Page 61 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem ii. Sustainable grazing land management This will be instrumental in reducing grazing intensity in the area. This can be achieved through rotational grazing, cut-and-carry of fodder among other measures. iii. Sustainable land management practices Sustainable Land Management practices in the area can be successfully achieved through the following approaches: • Developing and implementing Integrated watershed / landscape management (IWM) • Enhanced Agricultural extension services and capacity building • Adoption of Participatory land use planning (PLUP) • Implementing Community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) iv. Development and implementation of flood management plans There is need to establish flood management response in the area through development of flood management plans. This will encompass: a) Non-structural flood mitigation measures such as systematic and regular hazard assessments; early warning systems (weather forecasts); risk communication plans; inter county and inter-governmental cooperation on floods and landslides; insurance; evacuation plans; and land-use planning and zoning. b) Structural flood mitigation measures such as relocation of buildings above flood level; establishment of water storage areas; establishment of flood barriers/walls; and establishment of flood proofing (spillways and floodways). c) Natural systems against floods such as restoration and rehabilitation of wetlands as well as harvesting of flood waters. v. Strengthening capacities to manage landslides Mapping and monitoring of potential landslide-prone areas will play a critical role in management of landslides in this zone. There is also need for extension services and programmes on mitigation measures such as soil and water conservations, afforestation of bare land along the escarpment, planting of indigenous trees, building of check dams and construction of retaining walls against the escarpment. Additionally, there should be regular monitoring of quarrying activities in the area. vi. Promotion of alternative forms of livelihood Identification and promotion of alternative income generating activities (IGAs) will improve the livelihood of the people. Support in form establishment and provision of value chains such as high yielding germplasm, dairy production, good breeds, feeds and feed additives, quality zero grazing Page 62 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem units, hay production, improved breeds and livestock buybacks will help to achieve this. The value chains activities already practiced in this area and which will require improvement are listed below: County Priority value chains Elgeyo-Marakwet Cow Milk, Irish Potato, Maize, honey Uasin Gishu Cow Milk, Passion Fruits, Indigenous Vegetables West Pokot Meat Goat, Honey, Indigenous chicken, passion fruits In addition, there is need to establish a network of transporters of farm produce to tap into unemployed youth or boda boda riders; to support establishment and growth of cottage industries to add value to products before sale; and to provide advocacy to help communities access the best market prices for their produce. vii. Promotion of peace building efforts Incidences of cattle rustling and general insecurity in the lowland zone have caused communities to venture into gazetted forest for refuge. To address this, there is need to undertake peace meetings involving all the warring communities. For the offenders, there is need to establish prosecution mechanisms involving local elders and local administration to promote peace building. Peace building awareness campaigns can also be undertaken through holding of barazas, promoting peace programmes on local radio station, and supporting sporting activities such as the Tecla Lorupe Peace Race. viii. Protection of wildlife corridors and their habitats There is need to map, protect and rehabilitate wildlife corridors and habitats especially in the lowland zone. This will enable ease of movement of wildlife particularly the elephants. Such efforts can also include the filling the gullies which pose a risk to the wildlife, and control of irrigation projects to ensure that over-abstraction of water used by wildlife does not occur. There is also need to increase boreholes to supplement water for wildlife during dry seasons. 7.6 Zone 5: Recommendations for the Riparian areas The following measures are recommended for rehabilitation and restoration of Riparian Areas: i. Restoration of Riverine and Riparian Areas Riverine and riparian areas within the ecosystem can be restored through vegetative and structural interventions with the purpose of protecting river banks from erosion. The Agriculture (Farm Forestry) Rules, 2009 aim to protect riverbanks, shorelines, riparian and wetland areas. As part of Page 63 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem building back better, restoration in this ecosystem should consider populating this zone with indigenous and bamboo trees. ii. Replacement of Eucalyptus tree species on Riparian Areas with Bamboo and indigenous trees The Agriculture (Farm Forestry) Rules, 2009 prohibits growing or maintaining of any Eucalyptus species in wetlands and riparian areas. Phasing out of Eucalyptus around riparian areas and replacing them with indigenous trees and bamboo will help to enhance water quantity and quality. iii. Institutional strengthening Strengthening and building the capacity of local-based conservation organizations such as the WRUAs will enhance restoration and conservation efforts in this zone. It will also ensure proper management and utilization of forest and forest products. iv. Securing and re-adjudication of the Riparian Areas Part IX, Section 116 (2) requires that riparian land on each side of a watercourse is demarcated at least six meters or up to a maximum of thirty meters away from the bank. Therefore, conservation of the riparian areas of wetlands, rivers and springs within this Ecosystem should be undertaken. 7.7 Recommendations for Cross-Cutting Issues i. Community sensitization and awareness creation There will be need to create awareness through sensitization and environmental education for the local communities to enhance conservation and protection of the ecosystem. This will be undertaken through collaborative efforts of various stakeholders while ensuring holistic approach to conservation efforts. ii. Enhanced law enforcement Enforcement of existing laws will be done through enhanced surveillance and patrols. This will be effective in curbing illegal activities such as illegal logging, charcoal production or cultivation in unsuitable areas. The Agriculture Act (Cap 318) prohibits cultivation in slopes between 12-35 percent unless the soil is protected from erosion. This is intended to prevent the destruction and loss of vegetation cover on lands with slopes exceeding 35 percent10. iii. Completion of the gazettement of Elgeyo Hills Water Tower Kenya Water Towers Agency initiated the gazettement process of the Elgeyo Hills Water Tower. The process is currently at the public participation stage. The subsequent process entails survey 10 Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, 2016. Report of the Land degradation assessment in Kenya. Kenya Agricultural Productivity and Sustainable Land Management Project (KASLMP) Page 64 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem works. The Agency is in consultation with Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and Survey of Kenya for finalization of the process. This will entail: i) Control Survey to determine the precise boundary ii) Compilation of survey records which include GPS coordinates of the area to be gazetted iii) Beaconing or monumentation of the Water Tower and forest boundaries iv) Preparation of boundary plans v) Submission of boundary plans to Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forestry for forwarding to the Attorney General After approval by Attorney General’s office, a gazette notice will be placed on the Kenya Gazette. iv. Provision of additional extension services There already exists a number of Extension Service Providers (ESPs) in the targeted landscapes. They include private, public and models that integrate both ESPs. What is lacking is a dedicated programme to ensure that gaps in the delivery system are identified and sealed. Rapid assessment may serve to identify these gaps. However, some generic interventions would be necessary and include: • Identification of relevant SPs or their networks serving in the landscape • Development of Standard modules on various value chain related and other livelihood options • Supporting development of proposals for SPs to access finances for interventions • Supporting development of Training curricula and target SPs for TOT trainings • Supporting development of knowledge management system that serves both the SPs and intended beneficiaries. v. Establishment of partnerships and linkages In consultation with the National Government, Ministries and host counties, it will be necessary to develop and facilitate, in a participatory way, implementation of a code of conduct to guide operation of stakeholders including development partners. This mechanism will serve to bring synergy and direct resources to areas where they derive the highest value proposition. In the same breath, the partnerships will help establish an incentive system to reward good practice. The mechanism may also consider establishment and provision of competitive grants for SPs. vi. Mainstreaming of climate change adaptation actions in all interventions Interventions to mitigate climate change include: • Identification of priorities for climate adaptation and mitigation in all sectors of intervention • Domestication of national education and awareness creation programmes Page 65 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem • Streamlining adaptation measures to target specific sectors, vulnerable groups, communities and regions • Conducting periodic assessment of threats and risks of climate change • Identification of research and development needs to address climate change, and opportunities for technology development, absorption and diffusion • Strengthening of the capacity to reduce disaster risk in order to minimize the effects of climate change-related disasters. vii. Promotion of research and innovation Research is a tool that contributes to decision making on conservation of the ecosystem. The Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem houses endemic species of flora and fauna, and there is need to undertake research and to enhance innovation within the identified zones in the ecosystem. Research will also lead us to identify species that are threatened by anthropogenic activities and which therefore require protection. Community-based forest conservation is also suggested to ensure sustainable utilisation of the forests. Further research should also be done towards identifying and profiling important medicinal plants and also to identify where certain species thrive best, thereby reducing failures in afforestation and reforestation schemes. viii. Support to County Governments in domestication of national policies There is need to support County Governments in domesticating policies and regulations targeting conservation of the environment. Currently, there is a gap in implementing national policies such as sand harvesting, establishment of County Environmental Committees as provided in EMCA, enforcement of Charcoal rules and establishment of County policies and regulations to guide resource extraction from the ecosystem. ix. Address historical land tenure issues Issues of landownership and eviction were noted to have derailed conservation efforts. For example, during resettlement of communities in the escarpment, undeserving people were allotted land due to issues like political influence. There is need to ensure that due process is followed in these matters. x. Adopt a Multi-agency approach towards conservation Enforcement of laws and policies should be undertaken through a multi-stakeholder process involving Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI), National Police Service, local administration, County Governments and other National Government agencies as well as NGO’s and CBO’s. Furthermore, County Environmental Committees need to be constituted in Counties of West Pokot and Trans Nzoia for effective coordination of environmental matters. In counties like Uasin Gishu and Elgeyo-Marakwet where such committees already exist, there is need to strengthen them. Page 66 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Considering the main challenge with environmental committee is lack of budget to facilitate their meetings, the County Government could allocate resource for running these committees. Other non-state actors who can be included in the Multi-Agency team are WWF, World Vision, UNDP Red Cross, AIC Cheptebo Rural Development Program and other development partners engaged in environmental matters. Page 67 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 8: IMPLEMENTATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING 8.1 Linking and Coordinating Diverse Stakeholder Interests This chapter is meant to create a link between the mandate of organisations, the institutional arrangements and capacities as well as the requisite guidelines for implementing suggested actions. It is noted that the task of restoration of the landscape under focus attracts interest from many stakeholders, including both national and county governments; Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs), Development Partners; international and local NGOs, Faith Based Organizations, Civil Society Organizations, and local municipalities and community members. The Master Plan therefore envisions a coordinated framework that allows for efforts of all interested partners to be harnessed for the rehabilitation and restoration agenda. The Coordination of such interests shall be guided by the factors outlined herebelow. 8.2 Mandate The overall mandate to oversee development of Protected Areas vests in the National Government and respective SAGAs in collaboration with adjacent county governments. Policy shifts in the recent past have allowed for participatory management of these natural resources which also calls for inclusion of communities in the management arrangement. Community Forest Associations (CFAs) and Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs) are some of the participatory organs who play a key role in sustainable forest and water management respectively. In the case of the target landscape, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry will be the lead actor and will guide the whole process. This is strategic owing to the fact that the rehabilitation and restoration effort will require funding from the National Government and development partners whose coordination could easily be done at the national level. 8.3 Institutional Arrangements The following are the proposed institutional arrangements for the implementation of this Master Plan: i. Joint Policy Steering Committee for Rehabilitation and Restoration (JPSC-4R): This joint committee will comprise the Principal Secretary MEF, Chairperson of the Environment Committee of the Council of Governors (CoG), Governors of the participating counties, select CEC representing other CECs in the region, and coordinator of the Joint Programme Implementation Unit (JPIU). The Committee will meet twice in a year and will consider board papers submitted by Joint Technical Steering Committee, provide their inputs and table their resolutions for further advice to the Cabinet Secretary responsible for Environment and Forestry (CS MEF). The high-level policy meeting will help unlock any bottlenecks that hinder the restoration efforts. The Committee may from time to time convene Thematic Working Groups Page 68 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem (TWGs) in specialties of Conservation, Water, and Agriculture and Land, and to guide its decisions before the main meetings. ii. Joint Technical Steering committee (JTSC) Meetings by this committee will be chaired by the Principal Secretary or delegated to the Director Programmes, Projects and Strategic Initiatives and Co-chaired by Chair of County Executive Committee Member (CECM) representing other Environment CECMs in the region. It shall also have respective CECMs, CEOs of relevant SAGAs, that is KWTA, NEMA, WRA, KFS, KEFRI, KWS, AFA and KEPHIS. It shall have representatives of International NGOs, Development partners and Civil Society Organizations in attendance as well as coordinators of the County Programme Implementation Units (CPIUs) in respective counties. The Committee will meet quarterly to receive and consider plans and technical reports from JPIU. Budgets and work plans will seek approval from the committee before roll out. iii. Joint Programme Implementation Unit (JPIU) This unit shall be situated in a location agreeable to all counties and shall consist of a Coordinator and technical specialists in areas of Natural Resource Management, Agriculture, Water and Irrigation, Land, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Resource Mobilization. The team will also have support specialists in Accounts and office administration. Regional representatives of the SAGAs and local NGOs will be co-opted into the JPIU for ease of mobilization of intended support. The role of the team will be to liaise with the JTSC and JPSC in preparation of the monthly meetings, to prepare board papers for presentation in the meetings, and to implement resolutions provided. It will also coordinate day-to-day implementation of work plans developed by the CPIUs. It shall meet monthly with the coordinators of CPIUs to review progress in implementation. The JPIU will develop guidelines on various thematic areas to guide the CPIUs. One important guideline will be the Programme Implementation Plan (PIP). iv. County Programme Implementation Units (CPIU) It is agreed that zonation shall take place to demarcate the scope of the intervention areas in each county. This implies that each county will plan, budget and roll out activities in these areas. It will be the responsibility of the CPIUs to undertake all these initiatives. The team will also comprise a coordinator and specialists in Natural Resource Management, Agriculture, Water and Irrigation, Land, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Resource Mobilization. It will undertake day-to-day activities of the Programme and report to the JPIU. v. Pooling of Service Providers Private service providers will be organized around various thematic areas based on their comparative strength and partnerships established with CPIUs or JPIU. These organizations will be ‘pooled’ together to encourage division of roles. Page 69 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 8.4 Development of Programme Guidelines In order to harmonize the intended integrated interventions, attention will be placed on developing a series of guiding documents. It is expected that once established, the JPIU will convene its specialists and seek consultant opinions in drafting the following guidelines: • A guide to developing Programme Implementation Plans: This document will help to unbundle the objectives and Project Areas into actionable areas for execution. It is important that guidelines are developed to enable implementing entities to generate realistic activities from the bottom. The guidelines will be developed by the JPIU in consultation with CPIUs. • A guide for using the Programme Monitoring and Evaluation System: It is desirable that interventions of this scope have a Monitoring and Evaluation System. The system will spell out an institutional structure for capturing and reporting data; a result framework which outlines all the levels of results (outcomes, outputs and activities and their indicators) and a data framework that describes data to be captured. A guide for users is necessary to aid in the adoption of this system. The JPIU and CPIU will consult relevant thematic groups for additional guidance on the process. • Resource Mobilization Plan: Many tools are required to mobilize resources. Hence, hence the development and rolling out of such tools will be a guided process. If for instance it is agreed that Service Providers will be accessing funds through Concept Notes, then the process of developing the concepts will be defined together with the funding regimes. • Communication Plan: The level of interest in this work requires commensurate feedback mechanisms. A communication plan will be developed to ensure that information needs of the stakeholders are met. 8.5 Proposed Implementation Plan An implementation plan for the rehabilitation and restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Water Tower has been developed. As shown in Error! Reference source not found. below, its budget is estimated at KES 7.485 Billion. To arrive at the budget, a number of factors were taken into account, notably the identified threats and challenges; the recommended intervention measures, and the profiles of key stakeholders. Page 70 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Table 3. Implementation Matrix for Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem ZONATION PROPOSED INTERVENTIO NS PERIOD INDICATIV E BUDGET IN KES RESPONSIBILITY MONITORING INDICATORS EXPECTED OUTCOME Zone 1: Gazetted Forest Rehabilitation, reclamation and restoration of degraded areas with indigenous trees and bamboo 5 year 120,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, NEMA, KVDA, NIB, KWS, CFAs, WRUAs, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, Ministry of Interior and Coordination NGOs, CBOs, FBOs • Size of area rehabilitated • No. of tree and bamboo seedlings planted • Size of area restored • Degraded areas rehabilitated and restored • Increased forest cover Boundary survey and re-alignment 3 year 90,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KWTA, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Lands, National Land Commission, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs • Size of area surveyed • No. of beacons established • Map updated • Boundary realigned • Beacon established Implementation of titling program for forest blocks 5 years 100 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KWTA, Ministry of Lands, National Land Commission, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, • No. of forest blocks titled • Map updated • Boundary realigned • Beacon established Page 71 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Enhance enforcement of laws to curb illegal activities through patrols, surveillance and prosecution 10 years 80,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KWS, Ministry of Interior and National Coordination, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, Ministry of Interior and Coordination • Surveillance and patrol reports • No. of persons prosecuted Effective monitoring of the Cherangany Elgeyo ecosystem Conversion of plantation forests to indigenous / bamboo forests – Kaptagat forest 5 years 70,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, CFAs, WRUAs and MEF and relevant Ministries, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Size of area converted • No. of seedlings planted • Conversion reports • Increased density of indigeno us trees • Micro climatic condition Development and implementation of fire management plan 10 years 60,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA and Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Plan developed • Fire managemen t response Fire management plan developed and implemented Promotion and implementation of benefit sharing schemes such as PES 7 years 120,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, • No. of benefit sharing schemes implemente d • Benefit sharing implem ented Page 72 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem KVDA, NEMA, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Strengthening local based conservation organizations such as the CFAs 5 years 50,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, NEMA, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of benefit sharing schemes implemente d • Benefit sharing implem ented Afforestation and re-afforestation efforts 5 years 60,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, NEMA, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Size of area reforested • No. of tree seedlings planted • Increas ed forest cover • Species regener ation Establishment of community tree nurseries with indigenous species 3 years 80,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KALRO, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, NEMA, WRUAs, CFAs, Ministry of Gender and Social Services, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs No. of tree nurseries established Tree nurseries established Addressing historical land issues 5 years 120,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, NEMA, CFAs, WRA Reports on resolution made for the cases/issues raised Historical land issues addressed Page 73 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Establishment of public private partnerships Continuou s 90,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, NEMA, CFAs, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of public private partnership established • MoUs and MoA signed Various partnership established Restoration efforts implemented SUB TOTAL KES 1.04 Billion Zone 2: Upland Zone (Excluding gazetted Forest) Promotion of agro-forestry and farm forestry indigenous, fodder, fruits, bamboo 6 years 130,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI, KALRO, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, NEMA, WRAs, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of tree seedlings planted • Increased forest cover • Soil conservat ion Sustainable forest management 5 years 80,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KEFRI, KFS, NEMA, KVDA, CFA, WRUAS, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of trees planted by households • Forest managemen t practices implemente d Increased forest cover Promotion and adoption of alternative energy sources such energy jikos, 7 years 170 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, KEFRI, KFS, KALRO, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, • No. of alternative energy programs implemente d Alternative sources of energy adopted Page 74 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem solar, briquettes, biogas Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs. Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of persons benefited Restoration and rehabilitation of critical water catchment areas through planting of bamboo and spring protection 5 years 140,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia CFAs, CBOs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of springs and rivers protected and rehabilitated • Size of area rehabilitated • Increased vegetation cover at the critical water catchment areas • Springs protected and developed Promotion and implementation of benefit sharing schemes such as PES, Water Fund program 10 years 190,000,000 Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs No. of benefit sharing schemed implemented Benefit sharing schemes implemented Promotion of bee keeping (Apiary of beehives and honey processing units) 5 years 150,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, KEFRI, KFS, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KVDA, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs. Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of apiaries and beehives established • No. of honey processing units developed Bee keeping initiative embraced Establishment of 50 assorted commercial tree nurseries 3 years 140,000,000 Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of tree nurseries established • No. of seedlings in established tree nurseries 50 tree nurseries established Page 75 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Commercializatio n of bamboo as an alternative option for making furniture, tooth picks, incense sticks 7 years 110,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KEFRI, KFS, BAK, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Size of areas planted with bamboo for commercialization Bamboo farms established and production of bamboo products Establishment of tree nurseries according to species matching for this zone 3 years 90,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KEFRI, KWTA, KFS, University of Eldoret, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs, Private firms Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs No. of tree nurseries established Tree nurseries established Enhance livestock buybacks schemes encourage intensive livestock production (dairy) improved breeds 5 years 150,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, KWTA, KFS, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs, Private firms Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of buybacks schemes established • No. of improved breeds adopted at household level • Buybacks schemes established and implemented • Livestock improved breeds adopted Re-adjudication and mapping out ecologically sensitive areas 3 years 100,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs • Size of area re adjudicated • Size of area mapped Ecologically sensitive area re adjudicated and mapped SUB TOTAL KES 1.450 Billion Zone 3: Escarpment Promotion of agro-forestry and farm forestry 5 years 70,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KFS, KEFRI, KALRO, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs. Ministry of Interior • No. of seedlings planted on farmland • Acreage under agro-forestry/ farm forestry • Increased forest cover per household Page 76 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture, Private firms Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Rehabilitation of degraded areas through tree growing 5 years 130,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries, KEFRI, KFS, KWS, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs. Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Acreage reclaimed and rehabilitated • No. of seedlings planted • Encroached areas reclaimed • Degraded rehabilitated • Increased forest cover Promotion of soil conservation measures such as terracing 7 years 160,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KFS, KEFRI, University of Eldoret, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Area under terracing • No. of farmers benefited • Terracing adopted • Increased forest cover Promotion and adoption of conservation agriculture 6years 170,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Area under conservation agriculture practices • No. of farmers benefited • Sustainable agricultural practices adopted • Increased forest cover Page 77 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Addressing of historical land uses along the escarpment 5 years 150,000,000 County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, KVDA, KNCHR, Ministry of Lands, National Lands Commission, Ministry of Interior and National Coordination. • No. of historical land issues addressed • Report on resolution made Historical land uses addressed Re-demarcation of the “Spencer line” within the escarpment 3 years 60,000,000 County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs. Ministry of Lands, National Lands Commission, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Area under “spencer line” demarcated Spencer line demarcated Water harvesting technologies such as earth dams, water pans 5 years 180,000,000 MEF and relevant Ministries i.e Ministry of Water and Irrigation, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of water harvesting technologies implemented • No. of households benefited Water harvesting technologies implemented and adopted Promotion and implementation of benefit sharing schemes such as PES 10 years 110,000,000 MEF, KEFRI, KFS, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, University of Eldoret, KWTA, KVDA, NEMA, CFAs, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of benefit sharing schemes implemented • Amount of benefit derived from the scheme Benefit sharing implemented Page 78 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Commercializatio n of bamboo as an alternative livelihood program (for making furniture, tooth picks, incense sticks 5 years 90,000,000 MEF, KEFRI, KFS, BAK, Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Education (TVETs), KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs. Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Size of areas planted with bamboo for commercializati on Bamboo farms established and production of bamboo products Re-adjudication and mapping out ecologically sensitive areas 3 years 100,000,000 MEF, KEFRI, Ministry of Lands, KWTA, KFS, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot & Trans Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Size of area re adjudicated Size of area mapped Ecologically sensitive area re adjudicated and mapped SUB TOTAL KES 1.220 Billion Zone 4: Lowland areas Gulley rehabilitation 7 years 220,000,000 MEF, KALRO, KFS, KEFRI, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of gullies mapped and rehabilitated • Size of area with gullies rehabilitated Gullies rehabilitated Promotion and adoption of bee keeping (Apiary of beehives and honey processing units) 53 years 180,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KEFRI, KFS, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination • No. of apiaries and beehives established • No. of honey processing units developed Bee keeping initiative embraced Page 79 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Development and implementation of sustainable land grazing management 5 years 75,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, CBOs, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Gazing plan developed • No. of animals per acre of land • Report on implantation of the Plan Sustainable grazing plan implemented Promotion of fruit farming such as Mangoes, Passion, Pawpaw, Avocadoes, Tamarind 7years 180,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, MEF, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of farmers planted fruit trees • Size of area with fruit trees • Returns from sale of fruits • Plantation of fruit trees on farmlands as an alternative livelihood • Increased forest cover Promotion and adoption of aquaculture through establishment of ponds 5 years 110,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, University of Eldoret, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of ponds established; • Quantity of fingerlings farmed Harvesting of 10,000kg per Harvest per pond Promotion of sustainable land management practices 5 years 90,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, MEF, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, KEFRI, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West • No. of SLM practices implemented • Households benefited SLM implemented Page 80 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Development and implementation of Flood Management Plans 6 years 110,000,000 NDMA, KVDA, MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Plans developed and implemented Flood management plan developed and implemented Strengthening capacities to manage landslides 5 years 60,000,000 MEF, NDMA, KEFRI, KFS, KALRO, KWTA, KVDA, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of local based organization benefited • Reports Capacity of community-based organization strengthened Establishment of community tree nurseries according to species matching for this zone 4 years 80,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Gender and Social Services, KEFRI, University of Eldoret, KALRO, KFS, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs, Private firms Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of tree nurseries established Tree nurseries established Enhance livestock buybacks schemes Encourage intensive livestock 10 years 150,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KALRO, KWTA, KVDA, County No. of buybacks schemes established • No. of improved breeds adopted • Buybacks schemes implemented • Livestock improved Page 81 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem production (dairy) – improved breeds Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFA, WRUAs, Private firms breeds adopted Promotion of renewable energy such as biogas, briquettes and energy saving jikos 5 years 175,000,000 MEF, KWTA, KFS, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of alternative energy programs implemented • Adopted green energy technologies Promotion of peace building efforts 7 years 120,000,000 Ministry of Interior and Coordination, KNCHR, KWTA, KVDA, KWS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot & Trans Nzoia, CFAs, WRUAs, • No. of peace building programs • Reports and meetings Peace building initiatives implemented Protection of wildlife corridors and their habitats 5 years 90,000,000 KWS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot & Trans Nzoia Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Area for wildlife corridors protected Wildlife corridors and habitats protected SUB TOTAL KES 1.640 Billion Zone 5: Riparian areas Securing the riparian areas through marking, pegging and planting of bamboo/indigeno us trees 5 years 90,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KEFRI, KWTA, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, WRA, CFAs, WRUAs, Ministry of Interior and Coordination Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of river riparian secures • Size of area pegged and demarcated Riparian areas secured and demarcated Rehabilitation of riverine and riparian areas with bamboo 6 years 180,000,000 MEF, KFS, KEFRI, BAK, KWTA, KVDA, NEMA, CFAs, WRUAs, County Governments • Area of the riparian rehabilitated • Riparian areas restored • Increased vegetation cover Page 82 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of rivers and springs restored Replacement of Eucalyptus trees and area planted with indigenous trees and bamboo 4 years 70,000,000 MEF, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, KVDA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, NEMA, CFAs, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Size of area reclaimed • No. of indigenous tree planted • Eucalyptus trees phased out • Increase cover of indigenous and fruit trees Promotion and implementation of benefit sharing schemes 10 years 80,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KEFRI, KWTA, KVDA, KFS, NEMA, CFAs, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of benefit sharing scheme implemented • Returns from the scheme Benefit sharing implemented Spring protection of about 40 spring 5 years 220,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Water and Irrigation, KEFRI, KWTA, KFS, WRA, NEMA, CFAs, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • No. of springs protected 40 springs protected SUB TOTAL KES 640 m Cross-cutting interventions Gazettement of Elgeyo Hills Water Tower 2 year 60,000,000 MEF, KFS, KEFRI, KWTA, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, Ministry of Interior and Coordination • Report on gazettement status • Coordinates established Water Tower gazetted 10% tree cover of assorted tree species on all private farm lands with 30:30:20:20 5 years 270,000,000 MEF, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KEFRI, KWTA, KFS, • No. of tree seedlings planted 10% tree cover on private farms achieved Page 83 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem for Bamboo: Indigenous: Commercial and Fruit species respectively County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, WRA, KEFRI, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • The percentage of tree cover on farms Enhance sensitization and community awareness on conservation 8 years 70,000,000 MEF, KWTA, KFS, NEMA, CFAs, County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, WRA Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs • Sensitization meetings and minutes Enhanced level of awareness of conservation of the Water Tower. Mainstreaming climate change and adaptation in all interventions 8 years 105,000,000 MEF (CCD), CPM, KEFRI, NEMA, KMD, KWTA, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, WRA, KEFRI Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs Climate change programs adopted Mainstreamed climate change and adaptation programs Establishment of partnership and linkages 5 years 90,000,000 MEF, KWTA, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, CFAs, WRUAs, WRA, KEFRI Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs No. partnerships and linkages established Partnerships and linkages established Page 84 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Promote research and innovation 7 years 120,000,000 KEFRI, KALRO, University of Eldoret, Moi University, KWTA, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, KEFRI Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture No. of research and innovations undertaken Research and innovation promoted Provision of additional extension services 6 years 110,000,000 Ministry of Agriculture Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives, KWTA, KFS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, Relevant NGOs, CBOs, and FBOs No. additional extension services provided Extension services added Monitoring and surveillance on status of the ecosystem 5 years 350,000,000 MoE&F, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI, NEMA, KMD, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KEFRI Monitoring reports Implementation of monitoring system and conservation Address historical land tenure issues 5 years 120,000,000 KNHRC, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KWTA, KFS, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Local community No. of cases addressed and resolution made Historical land tenure issues addressed Multi-agency approach towards conservation 10 years 200,000,000 MoE&F, KWTA, KFS, KEFRI, NEMA, KWS, County Governments of Elgeyo-Marakwet, Uasin Gishu, West Pokot & Trans-Nzoia, KVDA, KEFRI Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Agriculture, Private firms, NGOs • Formation of multi agency team • Conservatio n efforts undertaken Various conservation efforts undertaken by multi-agency team Page 85 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 8.6 Monitoring and Evaluation Framework This Master Plan for rehabilitation and restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem will require the development of a framework to monitor and evaluate the implementation of proposed intervention measures. The framework will outline the steps required to seek information before and after interventions are made, and will be a source of lessons required for continuous improvement. Specific objectives of the framework will be to: i. Undertake systematic collection of data ii. Strengthen capacity of stakeholders to collect and analyze the collected data iii. Develop standard processes and procedures for monitoring and evaluation to guide stakeholders during implementation of the Plan iv. Ensure timely and accurate reporting. 8.7 Principles to Guide the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework The framework will be guided by the following principles: i. Its design will be participatory and result oriented ii. It will utilize and further develop stakeholder capacities iii. It will be flexible to allow for revisions. 8.8 Outline of the Monitoring and Evaluation Framework The framework will provide details on the following sections: i. Performance measurement ii. Data collection and reporting iii. Institutional arrangements (i) Under Performance Measurement Framework Various policies guide the manner in which the restoration and rehabilitation activities that have been defined in this Master Plan should be carried out. Guidelines from these policies will be relied SUB TOTAL KES 1.495 Billion TOTAL BUDGET KES 7.485 Billion Page 86 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem upon to identify relevant indicators to measure performance. The Master Plan will also respond to indicators from global, continental, regional, national and local and individual programmes. On the global scale, high level indicators will be derived from Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Aichi Biodiversity targets, Global Environmental Facility (GEF), Protocols core indicators and sub-targets among others. On the continental level, the African Union through the Forest Landscape Restoration will guide on identification of thematic specific indicators. Regionally, the East African Community Forest Policy and Protocol on Environment and Natural Resources Management have specified regional efforts aimed at restoration efforts to which the Master Plan will be aligned. At the national level, National Forest Policy and the National Strategy for Achievement and Maintenance of 10 percent forest cover as well as National Climate Change Action Plan be used as indicators. Further, Green Economy Strategy and Implementation Plan (GESIP) will play a role in guiding the greening processes and provide indicators specific to employment. Other Policies on land, agriculture and tourism will also be used to develop respective livelihood indicators. The Master Plan will also be aligned to different programmes and projects undertaking restorative activities in the landscapes. (ii) Under Data Collection and Reporting During the execution of the Plan, it will be necessary to collect data on results at various levels including inputs, outputs, outcomes and impacts. The Master Plan will guide the process of data collection, management, analysis and reporting. An assessment of data needs for the restoration efforts will be done at national and county levels; individual programme and project levels; wider ecosystem and individual thematic areas. In order to harmonize data collection, standard data tools will be used at all stages of all levels. (iii) Under Institutional Framework The framework for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) will follow the overall guideline proposed for the implementation of the Master Plan. Thematic M&E groups or hubs will also be created at all the levels including Joint Policy Steering Committee, Joint Technical Steering committee, Joint Programme Steering committee, County Programme Steering committees and Service Providers undertaking projects in the ecosystem. The thematic M&E groups will create vertical and horizontal linkages with each other to gather data and information and report on the same using data tools described above. Page 87 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem CHAPTER 9 : THE RESOURCE MOBILIZATION PLAN 9.1 Engagement of Stakeholders This chapter outlines the process of engaging stakeholders to finance the activities of the Master plan. Resources will be mobilised from National and County Governments, Development partners, private sector, individuals, and regional and international institutions. Resources will be used to facilitate implementation of the proposed inventions in the five zones and cross-cutting areas over a period of 10 years. 9.2 Engagement of Partnerships In order to successfully implement this Master Plan, both the National and the County Governments will explore opportunities for financing the proposed strategies. For this to be achieved, a sustainable relationship ought to be nurtured between the National and County Governments and strategic development partners, the private sector and communities in the area under focus. The needs and interests of each partner will be taken into account to explore possibilities of increasing their interest in and knowledge of the strategies highlighted in the Master Plan. Project proposals and concepts drawn from the Master Plan will also be prepared and will be used to secure part of the funding from various funding sources. 9.3 Financing Strategies Below are some proposed strategies through which this Master plan will be financed: i. Establishment of a joint coordination Committee for mobilization of Resources with participation of National and County Governments, NGOs, Development Partners and the private sector; ii. Seeking for enhanced funding from the National Treasury through a Cabinet Memorandum; iii. Mobilization of diversified revenue streams from eco-tourism and Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES), and through Kenya Forest Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service, including from sale of mature and over-mature trees in public forest plantations; iv. Establishment of viable public-private partnerships to enhance seedlings production and infrastructure development as potential targets under this arrangement; Page 88 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem v. Mobilization of additional resources from conservation levies, particularly water and tourism levies; vi. Establishment of benefit-sharing schemes modelled around a Trust Fund, and; vii. Supporting the development and implementation of a Water Fund Page 89 CHAPTER 10: CONCLUSION AND WAY FORWARD 10.1 Ensuring Implementation The chapter conclusively summarises why the Master Plan was necessary in the first place. It also proposes the way forward in order to ensure that what has been planned and documented herein is actually implemented. 10. 2 Summary Conclusion Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills is an important ecosystem in Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu counties. It is a critical water catchment area for the trans-boundary Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana. Besides providing water, it helps to regulate climate and also supports local culture, ecotourism activities and soil conservation, all key to the sustenance of community livelihoods. However, this ecosystem faces a myriad of threats and challenges that have led to reduction of forest cover, ballooning of cropland into the protected areas and degradation of critical water catchment areas, and settlement and cultivation along and on the steep slopes. This has led to increased levels of degradation resulting to increased landslides, reduced volumes of water in rivers and siltation. There is therefore an urgent need for initiatives and campaigns that foster rehabilitation and restoration of this ecosystem. This Master Plan has adopted the altitudinal zonation approach towards conservation of the gazetted forests, upland areas surrounding the gazetted forests, the escarpments, lowland areas and the riparian areas in the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem. A rehabilitation and restoration plan designed to suit the needs of each of these five zones has been proposed, its indicative budget amounting to KES 7.485 billion ($74 million). Funds to cover this budget will be drawn from development partners, National Government, County Governments, Civil Societies, Private Sectors, NGOs and the local communities. 10.3 Proposals for the Way Forward Based on preliminary assessment of the threats and challenges the ecosystem faces, the intervention measures proposed, and financing options, the recommended way forward for the implementation of the Master Plan are the following: i. Complete the validation processes for the Master Plan; ii. Follow Cabinet instructions relating to the Master Plan, particularly in securing Government funds; iii. Mobilise more stakeholders to implement various aspects of the Master Plan; Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Page 90 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem iv. Evaluate the Total Economic Value of the Elgeyo Hills as part of baseline statistics; v. Develop comprehensive workplans for the various initiatives proposed; vi. Establish a Multi-Agency Team to develop an integrated conservation and management plan for the established five zones; vii. Develop requisite guidelines for implementation; viii. Sign MoUs/MoAs with stakeholders including the County Governments of Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans-Nzoia and Uasin Gishu as a way of affirming commitment to the implementation of the Master Plan; ix. Carry out public and stakeholder participation on activities to be undertaken, to ensure successful implementation of recommended restoration efforts; x. Establish institutional arrangements necessary for driving the rest of the proposed initiatives, and; xi. Implement the recommendations of a report jointly developed by the County Commissioners and County Government of Elgeyo-Marakwet that addresses land tenure issues as a pre-requisite for meaningful development. Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Page 91 ANNEXES Annex 1: The Terms of Reference for Development of an Integrated Masterplan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Background Development of the Integrated Masterplan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem is to seek a lasting and inclusive solution to the perennial, interconnected environmental challenges in Embobut and the entire Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills landscape. It also responds to the 2019 directive by the National Development Implementation Communication and Coordination Committee (NDICCC) of the Cabinet for comprehensive remedial and anticipatory solutions to environmental hazards in the ecosystem. Challenges to the ecosystem include conflicts to land ownership and tenure, perennial landslides and claims of abuse to indigenous community. Further, there is encroachment in gazetted areas and wanton degradation of the landscape. Previous disciplinary interventions to these challenges have not resulted in tangible and lasting solutions thus lending credence to a strategy change for integrated, robust, trans-disciplinary and multi-agency approaches contained in this Master Plan. Objective of the Master Plan The overall goal of the Plan is to provide an integrated framework for the rehabilitation and restoration of the Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem. The specific objectives of the Master Plan are: 1. To provide an overview of the current status, threats and proposed intervention measures for the Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem; 2. To characterise and develop zonation for rehabilitation and restoration within Elgeyo Cherangany Hills ecosystem; 3. To outline the effort made in addressing identified threats and challenges; 4. To develop an implementation Master Plan for identified challenges and threats in the ecosystem 5. To develop an implementation and monitoring plan to guide the rehabilitation and restoration of Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem; 6. To develop an Integrated Master Plan for rehabilitation and restoration of Elgeyo Cherangany Hills ecosystem. Responsibilities of the task team in each specific objective Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Page 92 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem A. Overview of the current status, threats and proposed intervention measures for the Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem; Applicable Tasks 1. To describe the mandate of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry and the relevance thereof with the task at hand 2. To develop an appropriate criterion for delineating the boundaries of the intervention area with specific characterization of each zonation. 3. To relate the mandate of the Ministry with the context and urgency of making restorative actions in the landscape based on analysis of climate, biodiversity, socio-economic and demographic variables. B. To characterize and develop zonation for rehabilitation and restoration within Elgeyo Cherangany Hills ecosystem. Applicable Tasks 1. To profile the ecosystem services on productive sectors of the landscape including rainfed and irrigated agriculture, tourism and cultural activities as well as hydroelectric power generation. 2. To characterize degradation in the landscape based on applicable criteria 3. To establish including from secondary sources the baseline Total Economic Valuation the landscape. 4. To profile unique characteristics of the ecosystem and how these can be used to establish unique zones to guide in the profiling of threats and challenges and to design interventions 5. Identify key threats and challenges facing the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills ecosystem aggregated per distinctive zone identified C. To outline the effort made in addressing identified threats and challenges; Applicable tasks 1. To review both national and county level policy, legal, strategic and planning frameworks for restoration activities 2. To review relevant global and regional policy documents as a basis for the Integrated Master Plan. 3. Review baseline projects and initiatives that have been and are still continuing in the landscape, 4. Review lessons learnt from implementation of previous projects and initiatives. Page 93 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem D. To develop an implementation Master Plan for identified challenges and threats in the ecosystem Applicable tasks 1. To review and document expert and stakeholder views on solutions to the challenges and threats in the ecosystem and come up with recommendations for each of the zones identified 2. To develop a matrix indicating the recommendations and mandated organisations to intervene on them 3. To develop an institutional architecture for implementing the Master plan 4. To identify necessary guidelines required to implement the Master Plan 5. To develop an implementation and monitoring plan to guide the rehabilitation and restoration of Elgeyo-Cherangany Hills ecosystem. E. To develop an Integrated Master Plan for rehabilitation and restoration of Elgeyo Cherangany Hills ecosystem. Applicable tasks 1. To develop a final plan aggregating all the information from the other tasks 2. To undertake validation of the above Masterplan with different stakeholders 3. To edit and publish the Master Plan and subject to government approval 4. To establish the next steps for rolling out the Master Plan. Responsibilities of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry 1. To facilitate the task team in carrying out the identified tasks 2. To facilitate validation sessions for the Master Plan 3. To engage in partnerships for financing various aspects of the plan 4. To forward the Masterplan for requisite government approvals 5. To mainstream the Masterplan into national planning frameworks including bilateral resource mobilisation negotiations. Page 94 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Annex 2: The Costed Common Programme Framework for the Integrated Masterplan for Cherangany – Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Priority Programme 1: Increasing land production and productivity Indicative Budget MKES Component 1: Rehabilitation, Reclamation and Restoration of degraded areas 960 Project Area 1: Promotion of agro-forestry and farm forestry using indigenous, fodder, fruits, bamboo 320 Project Area 2: Promotion of soil conservation measures such as terracing, gulley rehabilitation, spring protection and 470 Project Area 3: Addressing of historical land use issues along the escarpment 270 Project Area 4: Development and implementation of Flood and landslide Management Plans 170 Component 2: Strengthening Conservation Agriculture and Innovative Water Harvesting Technologies 695 Project Area 1: Promotion and adoption of conservation agriculture 170 Project Area 2: Development of Water harvesting technologies such as earth dams, water pans 180 Project Area 3: Development and implementation of sustainable land grazing management 75 Priority Programme 2; Increasing Biodiversity Restoration and Ecosystem Conservation Component 1: Strengthening Security, Protection and Growth of Biodiversity 970 Project Area 1: Conversion of plantation forests to indigenous / bamboo forests 130 Page 95 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Project Area 2: Afforestation and re-afforestation initiatives 360 Project Area 3: Re-adjudication and mapping out ecologically sensitive areas 160 Project Area 4: Monitoring and surveillance on status of the ecosystem 200 Project Area 5: Promotion of research and innovation 120 Project Area 6: Protection of wildlife corridors and their habitats 90 Component 2: Strengthening conservation and restoration initiatives through boundary mapping, titling and management of the ecosystem 2430 Project Area 1: Implementation of titling program for forest blocks 100 Project Area 2: Boundary survey and re-alignment 280 Project Area 3: Mapping and addressing historical land issues 240 Project Area 4: Establishment of commercial community tree nurseries with indigenous species based on species matching for different zones 470 Project Area 5: Restoration and rehabilitation of critical water catchment areas through planting of bamboo and spring protection 360 Project Area 6: Research, develop and implement innovative and sustainable forest management technologies 80 Project Area 7: Securing and rehabilitation of the riparian areas through marking, pegging and planting of bamboo and other indigenous trees and removal of eucalyptus 340 Project Area 9: Enhance sensitization and community awareness on conservation 70 Project Area 10: Promotion and implementation of benefit sharing schemes such as PES and Water Fund 400 Page 96 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Priority Programme Area 3: Increasing ecosystem resilience to climate change Component 1: Promote Alternative Community Livelihoods 1040 Project Area 1: Enhance livestock buybacks schemes and encourage intensive livestock production 200 Project Area 2: Commercialization of bamboo as an alternative option for furniture, tooth picks, incense sticks making 110 Project Area 4: Promotion of value chains on honey and fruit trees including Mangoes, Passion, Pawpaw, Avocadoes, Tamarind and aquaculture; 180 Project Area 6: Provision of additional extension services including incentives for Private Extension Service providers 110 Component 2: Promote Mainstreaming of Climate Change Considerations in conservation interventions 450 Project Area 1: Promotion and adoption of alternative energy sources such energy jikos, solar, briquettes, biogas 345 Project Area 2: Mainstreaming climate change adaptation in all interventions 105 8.3.1 Priority Programme Area 4: Strengthen Institutional Capacities for Conservation and Restoration Component 1: Support Development and Roll Out of Milestones for Conversion and Gazettement of Elgeyo Hills Water Tower Component 2: Support capacity of community and organizations for conservation 50 890 Page 97 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Project Area 1: Strengthening local based conservation organizations such as the CFAs 50 Project Area 2: Support initiatives by regulatory Authorities to enforce laws to curb illegal activities through patrols, surveillance and prosecution 80 Project Area 3: Support development and implementation of fire management plan 60 Project Area 4: Support development and application of instruments for public private partnerships 130 Project Area 5: Support development and implementation of initiatives for the promotion of peace building efforts 120 Project Area 6: Support development and implementation of green policy instruments to guide stakeholders in post covid recovery Project Area 7: Monitoring and Implementation Framework for Master Plan projects 100 350 Total Budget 7.485B Page 98 Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of the Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem Annex 3: National Steering Committee Members for the Development of the Integrated Master Plan for Rehabilitation and Restoration of Cherangany-Elgeyo Hills Ecosystem 1. Dr. Chris Kiptoo, CBS, Principal Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forestry – Chairperson 2. Agnes Yobterik – Team Leader 3. Alfred Gichu – Team Leader 4. Kennedy Olwasi, MEF –Member 5. Dr. Winnie Musila, KWTA – Member 6. Abdi Noor Hassan, KFS – Member 7. Dr. Paul Ongugo, KEFRI – Member 8. Joyce Lagat, NECC – Member 9. Salome Machua, NEMA – Member 10. Chrispin Omondi, NETFUND – Member 11. Jackson Kiplagat, WWF Kenya – Member 12. Antony K. Musyoka, KFS – Member 13. Abraham Barsosio, CEC Elgeyo-Marakwet – Member 14. Meave Shatete, KWTA – Member 15. Stephen Kibet, KWTA –Member Government of Kenya, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, 2021 Ministry of Environment and Forestry