On Friday, August 2, 2024, the Deputy Director of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN paid a visit to Laikipia Wildlife Forum’s (LWF) project sites in Il Ngwesi Community Land, where FAO has been supporting the “Restoration of Degraded Areas and Improvement in Water Accessibility” project. The visit began with a warm reception from the local community, who welcomed the Deputy Director with traditional Maasai songs and dances.
The visit was preceded by a meeting with ILMAMUSI Community Forest Association (CFA), which provided an in-depth overview of the Mukogodo Forest. The manager of ILMAMUSI CFA informed the Director about the critical value of the dryland forest, which they co-manage with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). She was told that the forest is not only a water catchment area but also a source of livelihood for Indigenous communities, particularly the Maasai.
Following the briefing, the Deputy Director proceeded to the hay farm establishments covering 60 acres (24.49 hectares) in the Il Ngwesi community. The project aimed at providing reliable fodder supply during drought seasons and enhancing the economic well-being of community members through hay sales. The initiative is also a key intervention to reduce pressure on the adjacent Mukogodo Forest, which has been under threat from livestock encroachment during dry seasons.
During her tour of the project, the Deputy Director interacted with several community members involved in the restoration efforts, including 15 women from the Indigenous Maasai community who played a critical role in the hay farming initiative. She was impressed by the women’s active participation in the project, noting that their involvement is essential in ensuring sustainability of the initiative.
She enquired about the seed-sourcing process for the hay farm. She was happy that the planted variety, i.e., Boma Rhodes grass seeds, was doing very well. The Programs Officer explained how they mixed the seeds with sawdust to prevent wind dispersal during planting.
In conversations with LWF’s Program Officer, Peter Mathenge, the Deputy Director was briefed on the next steps for the project, which include developing a business plan for the commercialization of hay farming. In addition, there were plans to train community members on best practices for harvesting, packaging, and storing the hay to maximize its market value. The Deputy Director expressed her support for the next project steps and encouraged continued community engagement to ensure long-term success.
The area chief, Mr. Kisio, informed her that the availability of hay not only benefits domestic livestock but also serves the two Black Rhinos within the conservancy.
Her visit concluded with confirmation of FAO’s commitment to supporting sustainable land restoration efforts in the region, particularly in areas where there are community led restoration efforts.
