Programs
Transformation & Support.
Community Livelihoods
NTZDC was established not only to combat forest encroachment but also to provide sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on forest resources. Over the years, the government recognized that previous conservation strategies were inadequate, leading to a decline in forest cover to below 10%. To address this, NTZDC introduced tea buffer zones, which serve as both a cash crop and a sustainable source of income for local communities.
Tea Buffers as Livelihood Support
The organization has successfully established tea farms as buffers in its operational areas, utilizing local labor for land preparation, planting, and maintenance. This approach has engaged communities and enabled them to earn a living through tea farming. Currently, NTZDC directly supports the livelihoods of approximately 10,000 to 12,000 individuals involved in daily tea farming activities.
Key Statistics
Community Engagement
1. Education
Education is crucial for equipping youth with the knowledge and skills necessary for a prosperous future. In Kenya, the government aims for a 70% transition rate from primary to secondary school, a target still unmet due to various socioeconomic factors. NTZDC has intervened to improve educational opportunities in peri-forest communities through
Infrastructure Support
Over 30 schools have received support for infrastructure development.
Seedling Donations
Over 1.5 million tree and tea seedlings have been distributed to schools,farmers, and community-based organizations (CBOs)
Environmental Awareness
More than 100 primary and secondary schools have engaged in conservation awareness programs.
2. Employment Support
NTZDC recognizes the potential of young people as drivers of economic growth. The agency works to support local youth through various employment initiatives, including:
Paid Internships
Offering internships and short-term contracts to college students, helping them earn an income while gaining work experience.
Job Creation
Directly employing over 12,000 casual workers in tea plantations and factory operations, with 100+ permanent staff at the Gatitu factory and additional permanent positions at the HQ and regional levels.
Capacity Development
Sustainable Farming Practices
Recognizing the impacts of climate change on tea cultivation, NTZDC has implemented capacity-building programs for farmers.
- Over 3,500 farmers have been trained on sustainable practices, including:
- Crop diversification in low-production areas.
- Efficient management of soil and water resources.
- Adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques.
Through these initiatives, farmers have achieved higher yields and obtained certifications from Rainforest Alliance and Fairtrade.
AWARENESS RISING
Sustainable Farming Practices
NTZDC prioritizes environmental education, having reached over 100,000 students and teachers through eco-school initiatives. The organization promotes environmental consciousness in schools and local communities by:
- Planting Initiatives: Supporting the planting of over 1 million trees and providing 1.5 million seedlings to various stakeholders.
- Community Involvement: Encouraging local communities to participate in biodiversity preservation and climate change adaptation efforts.
SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
Climate Change Adaptation
NTZDC has established 939 kilometers of tea and tree buffer zones, which have effectively protected over 975,582 hectares of gazetted forests. These buffers play a crucial role in mitigating climate change impacts by:
- Preventing illegal logging and halting encroachment.
- Facilitating the natural regeneration of protected forests.
- Supporting the conservation of biodiversity and critical water towers essential for agriculture.
Ecosystem
Management
Tea cultivation serves as both a conservation tool and a source of sustenance for local communities. By involving these communities in the management and maintenance of buffer zones, NTZDC fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility toward environmental conservation.