Ksh61M GEF Cheques Handed to Boost Conservation in Baringo

Sixteen community groups across the Lake Bogoria–Baringo landscape have received a significant boost following the official handover of KES 61 million in grants under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme.

The cheques were presented recently during a ceremony held at the Kapicha Community Ecotourism Centre in Kisanana Ward.

The event was presided over by Environment Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno, and attended by Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi, Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek, UNDP Kenya officials, and local leaders.

The funding will support projects focused on ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate-resilient livelihoods.

The initiatives implemented in partnership with Farming Systems Kenya will also promote sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, apiculture, eco-tourism, and community empowerment.

Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek, who is also the area MP, lauded the programme, describing it as a timely intervention for the semi-arid region.

“As the area MP, I’m proud to witness this level of commitment to grassroots empowerment. I urge all beneficiaries to implement the projects with transparency and passion so that future generations benefit from the impact,” Kiborek stated.

PS Ngeno emphasized the importance of community-driven environmental efforts.

“This programme reflects our commitment to empowering communities as custodians of the environment. With the right support, these initiatives can transform both lives and landscapes.” Governor Cheboi reaffirmed the county government’s support for conservation and revealed that Baringo has formally applied to join the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.

“We are proud to support these grassroots projects and to position Baringo as a leader in conservation and heritage,” the Governor said.

The GEF Small Grants Programme, supported by UNDP, funds community-based solutions to critical environmental challenges in developing countries.