Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC) and Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a framework for co-operation to support innovative climate change solutions and sustainable development.
The MoU was signed by KCIC CEO, Dr. Edward Mungai and KEFRI Director General, Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo. The signing ceremony, which took place at KEFRI head offices in Muguga, was attended by officials from the two organisations.
The MoU aims to build strategic relations of cooperation, partnership and integration between the two sides to achieve objectives related to: forestry research and development; environmental conservation and natural resources management; capacity building; knowledge management, technology development and transfer.
In addition, it will provide an instrument for greater dialogue between the two organisations on areas for potential policy, legislation and standards, collaboration for the inclusive growth and environmental management.
Following the signing, Dr. Mungai said the MoU comes in line with the strong ties between KEFRI and KCIC based on interdependence, synergy and continuous coordination and consultation on all topics of common interest, emanating from their shared visions, goals and aspirations for providing sustainable solutions to pressing economic, social and environmental challenges across the region.
“Under the MoU, we will work jointly to promote research, development and smooth operations to establish commercial farm forestry innovations.
“KCIC will also provide incubation, capacity building services and financing to Kenyan entrepreneurs and new ventures that are developing innovative solutions to address challenges of Climate Change,” he added.
In partnership with Gatsby Africa, KCIC is presently 30 clients in their commercial forestry programme which aims at improving returns for commercial growers of all sizes, enhancing forest-based economic, social and developmental benefits, enhancing profitability and employment in wood processing and increasing investments in forest development.
On his part, Dr. Cheboiwo said the MoU stems from the deep-rooted brotherly and strategic relations between the two organisation.
“This agreement sets the course for a new era of joint action and constructive cooperation between two brotherly organisations in all domains, particularly in commercial forestry and environmental management.
“KEFRI shall conduct research in forestry and allied natural resources, disseminate research findings to stakeholders, build capacity of stakeholders; and establish partnerships and cooperate with other research organizations and institutions of higher learning,” he added.
Dr. Cheboiwo pointed out that drawing from KEFRI’s vast experience and strong relations with ecosystem management, as well as its skilled talents, it was well positioned to play a pivotal role in enabling the and boosting its contribution to the MoU’s sustainable development drive.
Innovations spelled out in the MoU will bridge the wood-gap through responsible forestry harvesting, afforestation and re-afforestation while reducing the felling of trees.
