International Tree Foundation (ITF)

International Tree Foundation (ITF) is a Kenyan NGO with seven years of experience in restoration, dedicated to planting, protecting, and promoting trees in partnership with local communities. ITF’s mission centers on transforming landscapes and improving livelihoods through ecological restoration, nature-based enterprises, and community empowerment, with a strong focus on women and vulnerable groups. The organization has successfully planted over 10 million trees across multiple counties, restored critical habitats, and fostered collaborations with grassroots organizations, government agencies, and local authorities. ITF’s approach integrates indigenous knowledge, sustainable resource management, and capacity building, earning national recognition for its impact and leadership in conservation.

The proposed project aims to restore 394 hectares of degraded forest and biodiversity-rich habitats in the South Marmanet Forest in Laikipia, Kenya, through a community-led tree-planting initiative. The project will rehabilitate forest and riparian areas by planting 120,000 trees of diverse species, including endangered ones, and improve farm productivity by establishing 130,000 agroforestry trees across 700 smallholder farms in Leshau Pondo and Mahianyu. It will enhance the livelihoods of 4,000 rural households by supporting nature-based enterprises, clean cooking solutions, and environmental education, while building the capacity of local partners Makamia and Nyalana CBOs for sustainable restoration and livelihood activities. Activities include establishing community nurseries, training community members, implementing tree maintenance and monitoring protocols, and developing organizational development plans to ensure partner self-sufficiency. The project is designed to create jobs, support local economies, protect wildlife, and promote long-term resilience for both people and the environment in the South Marmanet area.