Dr. Jane Njuguna, KEFRI's Chief Executive Officer
By: John Kariuki
The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation by distributing two tonnes of assorted tree seeds to the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). The handover took place at the Centre for Human Ecology and Reforestation Programme (CHERP) in Muguga, marking a significant step in advancing Kenya’s reforestation agenda.
KFS will use the seeds to raise seedlings for large-scale planting across degraded and deforested areas, as part of the Kenya National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign. The campaign seeks to increase forest cover, restore ecosystems, and build climate resilience — goals that have become increasingly urgent as Kenya faces erratic weather patterns and shrinking forest resources.
KEFRI’s role goes beyond seed supply. As Kenya’s premier forestry research institution, KEFRI ensures all seeds distributed are high quality, ecologically appropriate, and suited to diverse growing conditions — improving germination rates, seedling survival, and long-term reforestation outcomes.

Central to this initiative is the leadership of Dr. Jane Njuguna, KEFRI’s Chief Executive Officer. Under her stewardship, KEFRI has strengthened its partnerships with institutions like KFS, streamlining the transition from research to on-the-ground implementation. Her ability to align institutional priorities with national goals — particularly around climate resilience and sustainable land management — has sharpened KEFRI’s policy influence and operational impact.
The seed distribution also reflects KEFRI’s direct contribution to the government’s tree cover targets. The seeds will grow into millions of trees, supporting carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration — all critical in the fight against climate change.
This initiative is ultimately a demonstration of what strong leadership and institutional collaboration can achieve. It reflects a research-driven strategy with real, measurable outcomes — and underscores Dr. Jane Njuguna’s role in positioning KEFRI as a cornerstone of Kenya’s environmental sustainability agenda.