Restoring Hope in Parua: TerraFund for AFR100 Launches Major Reforestation Initiative in West Pokot

Parua, West Pokot County – Against the backdrop of Kenya’s rolling hills and fresh mountain air, the community of Parua in Baite Ward welcomed a new chapter in their environmental journey. On November 4th, just days before the National Tree Planting Day, the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) and the West Pokot County leadership launched the TerraFund for AFR100 project, a transformative initiative aimed at restoring degraded landscapes across Africa.

This launch event, attended by hundreds of enthusiastic community members, saw the planting of over 3,000 tree seedlings to revive Parua Forest. As part of the TerraFund for AFR100, PACJA aims to restore 100 hectares of land across natural forests and farmlands within West Pokot. The initiative is aligned with Kenya’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 and Africa’s broader target of restoring 100 million hectares by 2030.

A Commitment to Restoration and Resilience

PACJA’s Executive Director, Dr. Mithika Mwenda, emphasized the significance of this initiative not only for Parua but for the entire African continent. “Today, as we plant these trees, we are not merely restoring a forest; we are restoring hope, resilience, and a commitment to future generations,” Dr. Mwenda remarked. “Africa’s landscapes have the potential to contribute meaningfully to global climate solutions, and community-driven projects like this one are central to achieving sustainable restoration.”

Dr. Mwenda further highlighted the unique approach of TerraFund for AFR100, which integrates indigenous knowledge with regenerative and ecological practices. “Our communities have managed these landscapes for centuries. By incorporating their traditional wisdom and practices, we enhance the effectiveness of our efforts. We are not only planting trees but also cultivating a culture of ecological stewardship,” he added.

Local Leaders Unite in Support

The event was graced by West Pokot’s Deputy Governor, Mr. Komole, who underscored the county’s dedication to environmental preservation and sustainable development. “West Pokot is committed to supporting initiatives that bring both environmental and economic benefits to our people,” Mr. Komole said. “Today, as we plant trees, we plant seeds of economic opportunity and resilience. This initiative will not only green our landscapes but also create jobs, boost food security, and provide new sources of income through agroforestry.”

Reflecting on Kenya’s national tree-planting target, Mr. Komole expressed optimism that West Pokot County could play a leading role. “The Executive Order to plant 15 billion trees across Kenya is ambitious but achievable if we all work together. We hope that, through initiatives like TerraFund for AFR100, West Pokot can become a model for other counties on how local action can lead to national transformation.”

A Community-Led Movement

Hundreds of community members gathered to participate in the launch, many of whom have firsthand experience with the challenges posed by land degradation. Local farmer and community elder Mary Cheptoo shared her thoughts on the project’s impact on the community’s well-being. “For years, we’ve watched our forests disappear and our soil suffer,” Cheptoo said. “Today, I feel hope. This project gives us the tools and the knowledge to restore what we’ve lost. I look forward to teaching our young people how to care for the land, just as my parents taught me.”

The project also focuses on promoting agroforestry with fruit trees, bringing a valuable resource to the community. “These trees are not just for shade,” Cheptoo added. “They will feed our families and give us produce to sell. This project is truly a blessing for our community.”

Towards a Greener, More Resilient Africa

The TerraFund for AFR100 project is not only about reforesting land but also about fostering long-term environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and economic stability. By restoring soil health and enhancing agricultural productivity, the initiative promises to create lasting benefits for the local population. Through community involvement, the project ensures that environmental restoration goes hand-in-hand with improving livelihoods.

Dr. Mwenda concluded the event with an inspiring call to action: “The work we do here in Parua is part of a much larger vision. Each tree we plant today is a promise to future generations. Let us keep our promises, for Africa, for our planet, and for a sustainable tomorrow.”

Looking Forward

The launch of TerraFund for AFR100 in West Pokot marks a pivotal step in Africa’s journey toward ecosystem restoration. As the project progresses, it will continue to set an example of how community-driven initiatives can contribute to both local and global climate goals. With Kenya’s 15 billion trees goal and Africa’s 100 million hectares by 2030 in sight, the residents of Parua have taken a significant step toward a greener, more resilient future.

By focusing on local action and collective responsibility, the TerraFund for AFR100 project stands as a powerful testament to the potential of community-led environmental restoration in Africa.