Following my post on 25th November about the new threat of charcoal burning in Shimoni Forest, and concerns that you shared with us about it, I am pleased to be able to update you with some very encouraging news already! Having started reporting what we observe in terms of clear felling and now the alarming number of charcoal ovens that have sprung up, to Kenya Forest Service, they are taking an active interest.

Above: The type of tree often targeted for timber, it’s height and canopy size mean that felling it can create a huge clearing as it takes down neighbouring trees

Just over a week ago a Forestry Officer came down to Shimoni to see for himself the scale of clear felling near Transect 1. Yesterday he sent four rangers down, to investigate the charcoal burning on Transect 6. They were dismayed not only by the charcoal burning which they confirmed was all illegal, but also the clear felling of land and the cutting of timber.

Above: Saw pit on Transect 6, where timber is cut in to planks before being carried out the forest

The four rangers dismantled five of the charcoal ovens and apprehended one of the charcoal burners they came across in the forest. At our request they took him to the village chairman to decide what action to take - an important process in ensuring that it is the local community taking the active role in managing their forest.

Above: The gap left by a used charcoal oven in Shimoni Forest

We are currently supporting the formation of a new community based organisation to spearhead community conservation and management of their forest and I look forward to introducing you to ‘Friends of Shimoni Forest’ very soon. Watch this space!

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