A delegation from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), led by Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (Advisory and County Liaison) Dr. Thomas Kiptoo, held a follow-up meeting with officials from the Machakos County Department of Environment and Natural Resources to assess progress on the Transition Implementation Plans (TIPs).

Dr. Kiptoo was joined by Mr. Oscar Simanto, Head of Extension Services, and Ms. Millcah Mutua, the County Forest Conservator. The delegation met with Chief Officer Mr. Benson Metho and other senior county officials to evaluate the implementation process following the TIPs’ signing.

Strengthening Devolved Forestry Functions

Key outcomes of the meeting included the need to establish tailored county forestry programmes and a County Operational Plan to support sustainable forest management. Officials also stressed the importance of creating Community Forest Associations (CFAs) and forest management plans to enhance community involvement in conservation efforts.

Alignment with National Forestry Standards

The delegation emphasized boosting human resource capacity and formulating local legislation that aligns with national forestry policies.

KFS reaffirmed its commitment to offering technical guidance and advisory services to support the county’s forestry objectives and the broader environmental agenda under the devolved framework.