Grow Forests, Grow Communities In Mount Kenya

The Imenti Forest, located on the northeastern slopes of Mount Kenya, serves as a crucial link between the mountain's montane habitats and the surrounding lowlands. However, this unique ecosystem is currently facing severe pressure. Years of degradation, particularly during the 1990s, have weakened its biodiversity and resilience. One of the most pressing threats is the spread of Lantana camara, an invasive shrub that has overtaken native vegetation, significantly reducing food availability for wildlife, including elephants.

For over five years, Mount Kenya Trust (MKT) has been leading restoration efforts in Imenti with a dual mission: to restore forest cover and strengthen community-based forest management. Rangers and tree monitors patrol the restored areas, but challenges persist. Illegal activities continue, and elephants—although crucial to the ecosystem—put additional strain on the already degraded forest by feeding heavily in it. Imenti is essential for elephants, as it serves as a water source and a calving ground; however, its current state is putting stress on both the wildlife and their habitat.

Recent research has underscored the urgency of these restoration efforts. A peer-reviewed study published on August 12, 2025, titled "Physiological and Nutritional Stress Response of African Elephants within the Lantana-Dominated Lower Imenti Forest Reserve in Kenya," documented repeated juvenile elephant deaths since 2023 and highlighted declining health among surviving individuals. Co-authored by MKT’s Susie Weeks and Enock Ochieng, the study found that elephants relegated to lantana-dominated zones are suffering from poor nutrition, restricted movement, high stress levels, and severe tick infestations.

These findings have led to a coordinated response. MKT, in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forest Service, Save the Elephants, Rhino Ark, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Community Forest Associations, and academic partners, has confirmed the evidence and agreed on urgent interventions. Removing lantana and replanting indigenous species will enhance forage quality, reduce stress in elephants, and re-establish Imenti as a viable wildlife corridor.

During a stakeholder meeting with the Forest Manager on July 22, 2025, partners agreed to strengthen collaboration with local communities. Joint forums are planned to increase community ownership of the forest, accelerate restoration efforts, and improve protection against illegal activities.

The future of the Imenti Forest relies on finding a balance between ecological restoration and community engagement. With your support, we can restore this vital corridor, protect elephants and biodiversity, and ensure water access, livelihoods, and long-term resilience for the communities living alongside it.

Links:

• Journal article