In partnership with Muguga Ecosystem Restoration Community Forest Association (CFA) and other key stakeholders, Ecotourism Kenya held a two-day community engagement workshop at KEFRI Headquarters, Muguga forest, Kiambu County, from the 14th to the 15th of August 2025. The event, under the theme Sustainable Practices for a Thriving Community, brought together community members, stakeholders and experts. The workshop aimed to equip residents with knowledge and skills on sustainable practices and strategies to promote environmental conservation and enhance sustainable development. Capacity building and sensitisation are two of the strategies to tackle the pressing issue of inorganic waste disposal, such as diapers. The workshop was officially opened by Angela Njehia, Chairperson Executive Board and Lynnet Kamonde, Chief Executive Officer, Ecotourism Kenya. Simon Kamonde, the chairperson of Muguga CFA, provided an overview of the association and its history. He welcomed the partners present, the Kenya Forest Service and KEFRI representatives.
DAY 1: Community Training
The first day of the workshop, moderated by Mary Kimeu, Communications Officer, focused on equipping the community members with practical knowledge and tools to incorporate and champion sustainability within their daily lives and livelihoods. Thirty-three participants underwent a series of engaging training sessions on;
- Sustainable waste management led by Mr. George Ireri,
- Community-based tourism principles led by Ms. Angela Njehia,
- Financial literacy and management led by Ms. Lynnet Kamonde and
- Community partnership and engagement led by Ms. Sheila Kutto.
The energy was dynamic all day long, participants asked questions, role-played scenarios, held group discussions and explored potential community-led projects. Trainers emphasised simple replicable steps so momentum could translate into long-term change.
In the Sustainable Waste Management session, it was noted that rapid urbanisation and high rates of population growth have led to increased amounts of waste being produced by urban activities. Led by Mr. George Ireri, participants were equipped with knowledge on proper waste management and its impact on the environment. Stressing the need for collective efforts to develop and implement effective waste management strategies. The CFA members were urged to develop a comprehensive waste management plan that ensures regular monitoring and evaluation of waste disposal practices to ensure compliance.
From community-based tourism principles, participants understood that involvement of the local people in the planning, development and management of ecotourism initiatives is paramount. This will guarantee that ecotourism projects are culturally sensitive and respect the traditions and customs of the community. It would aid in building trust and support among the local population, ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared among local community members and also make certain that implemented practices are sustainable, hence reducing negative impacts of tourism on the environment.
Recognising that financial stability underpins successful community initiatives, the training offered practical lessons on savings, budgeting, and small business management. This session empowered the CFA members to better manage incomes and tap into opportunities arising from sustainable enterprises. Through the technical skills covered, participants understood how to manage finances, budget and access simple financial services essential for turning conservation activities into sustainable livelihoods.
Acknowledging that every voice matters in shaping the future of the community and the forest, participants were reminded that collective responsibility, leadership and inclusivity are the only way to build a stronger community. From this interactive discussion, participants understood that through partnerships and collaborations, they could share ownership, where everyone would have responsibilities, empower each other through various innovative solutions and diverse perspectives and make informed decisions, hence encouraging more successful and sustainable outcomes.
The training sessions, delivered in a mix of Kikuyu, Swahili and English, not only sparked interactive discussions but also built confidence among participants to take charge of community-led initiatives. The training served as an entry point to sustainable forest management, providing a platform to share ideas, identify areas for improvement and inspire collective action. To mark the occasion and the knowledge acquired, and the exchange, certificates of participation were issued to the thirty-three CFA members who attended the sessions.
Some Insights From Muguga CFA Members
“Leo imekua siku njema sana, tumeelimishwa na tukahelimika. Tumejifunza mengi kama jinsi ya kuondoa taka kwa njia salama, kutambua na kuendeleza Utalii unaotegemea jamii, ustadi wa kifedha na umuhimu wa ushirikiano kwenye jamii zetu. Ni wajibu wetu sisi kama wakazi wa Muguga kuhakikisha kuwa yale tuliyofundishwa tunatekeleza ili tuunde taratibu za kudhibiti uharibifu wa msitu. Nawahimiza wenzangu tuwe walinzi wa mazingira yetu wenyewe, katika vitendo na tufuatilie utekelezaji wa hatua tulizo zipanga kwa manufaa makubwa ya mazingira na jamii kwa ujumla”.
“Masomo ya leo yametupa nyenzo na tumaini. Tunaamini kuwa tukishirikiana, tunaweza kuunda jamii endelevu inayostawi”.
DAY 2: Community Sensitisation, Forest Cleanup and Tree Planting
The second day of the workshop was a perfect blend of education, action and appreciation for the natural world around us. The morning began with waste management sensitisation, tailored to the urgent problem Muguga Forest faces: disposal of inorganic waste. The awareness session highlighted the environmental harm of plastics and other non-biodegradable items, and gave clear guidance on safe disposal and recycling options. The community members were encouraged to make cleanup days a regular effort, recognising that protecting the forest from waste requires ongoing commitment. They were urged to monitor the forested area and work with neighbouring residents to implement effective waste management practices, helping to prevent waste from entering the forest and ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.
This session, which set the tone for the day, challenged participants to rethink their everyday habits and consider how small changes can make a difference. To enable proper waste management, the workshop partners presented the community with a waste bin intended to collect waste, courtesy of SawaSawa Africa. It would be placed near the forest at an accessible point to the neighbouring community. This followed a forest clean-up activity, armed with bags and gloves, we worked together to remove inorganic litter from a section of the forest. The transformation was remarkable, and it was inspiring to see the impact we could make in such a short time.
Following the cleanup, a tree planting component followed, which included a carefully selected mix of 100 indigenous species chosen for the local area suitability, ecological benefits and value to the community. We were joined by some students from Pleasant Hope Academy. The species include;
- Olea Africana – African Olive
- Croton Megalocarpus – Mukinduri
- Warbugia Ugandensis – Greenheart Tree
- Markhamia Lutea – Nile Tulip
- Podocarpus Falcatus – Podo
- Prunus Africana – Muiri
We also went on a guided forest walk, immersing ourselves in the beauty of Muguga Forest. The tranquil sound of the forest, the fresh scent of the trees and the sight of sunlight filtering through the branches and leaves provided a much-needed sense of peace and serenity. It was a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural spaces and the value of reconnecting with our natural world.
Through all the activities carried out, we were able to deepen our understanding of environmental issues affecting Muguga Forest beyond diaper waste. We discussed possible steps that would create positive and long-lasting change, such as putting up signage to discourage waste dumping, intensified community outreach on proper waste management, regular cleanups, etc.
We sincerely appreciate the support of our partners: The county government of Kiambu, Tourism Promotion Fund (TPF), Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO), Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Real Africa, Hemingways Collection, SawaSawa Africa, Masikio Safaris, Peaks Safaris, Pleasant Hope Academy and lastly the general community of Muguga, whose contributions played a pivotal role in the success of this workshop. Their contribution, through funding, provision of seedlings and a waste bin, logistical assistance and technical resource,s was vital for the success of the workshop. This collaboration is a testament to the power of partnerships in creating positive change, and we look forward to walking this journey together toward a thriving, sustainable community.
