(Posted 27th September 2024)
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has selected Kajulu Forest as the prime location to launch the countrywide “One Tourist, One Tree” campaign, aimed at transforming the forest into a premier eco-tourism destination. Led by the Kenya Tourism Board, Kajulu Forest is poised to become the centrepiece of eco-tourism in Kenya’s Western Tourism Circuit, showcasing its rich biodiversity and ecological relevance of indigenous trees. This initiative encourages visitors to plant a tree, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The initiative takes place during UN’s World Tourism Week, an annual global event whose 2024 theme is “Tourism and Peace”. The Kajulu eco-tourism initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the County Government of Kisumu and the local community.
Speaking during the launch of the Sustainable Travel Initiative, “One Tourist, One Tree” campaign, Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtua emphasised that the tree-planting initiative aligns with the government’s ambitious target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. This effort, he noted, will not only enhance Kenya’s standing as a sustainable tourist destination but also positively impact local communities across the country. Stakeholders and members of the tourism value chain are encouraged to actively join and support the “One Tourist, One Tree” initiative, which aims to significantly enhance eco-tourism efforts in Kenya.
“We are providing tourism stakeholders with an opportunity to position Kenya as a leading destination for eco-conscious travellers through this initiative. This partnership will not only improve Kenya’s green cover but also reinforce the industry’s commitment to pursue sustainable practices that benefit local communities and ecosystems,” said June Chepkemei, the CEO, Kenya Tourism Board.
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability, KTB will allocate a portion of its marketing budget to promote eco-friendly facilities, including eco-lodges. In collaboration with Eco-Tourism Kenya, KTB will co-host a Sustainable Travel Awards Contest as part of the annual Eco Warrior Awards, recognising and rewarding excellence in sustainable tourism practices across the country.
The Story of Kajulu Forest
Kajulu Forest is more than a destination. It is a testament to nature’s resilience and a reason to embrace more dynamic environmental conservation. Once home to lost springs, this forest is now being revived, with indigenous trees preferred for the restoration of this unique ecosystem. The ongoing rehabilitation efforts hold the promise of enhanced wildlife habitats and more scenic views for hikers, birdwatchers, campers, and potential zip-line boardwalks.
With the “One Tourist, One Tree” initiative and continuous efforts to restore this exquisite ecosphere, Kajulu Forest is set to become a leading eco-tourism destination that will engross and fascinate travellers while transforming the fortunes of the local community for generations to come.
