67-en-History_and_Current_Status_of_Afforestation_Projects_in_Nigeria_and_Kenya-2000-February-Environmental_Issues_Explained

67-en-History_and_Current_Status_of_Afforestation_Projects_in_Nigeria_and_Kenya-2000-February-Environmental_Issues_Explained

### 2000s: The Start and Early Development of Afforestation Projects

Afforestation projects in Nigeria and Kenya began in 2000 under the leadership of Norway, aiming to balance regional economic development with environmental conservation. At this stage, the project set a goal to reduce 5000 tons of CO2 annually and emphasized collaboration with local communities. In Nigeria's Edo and Kaduna states, reforestation was initiated as a countermeasure against floods and soil erosion, creating job opportunities for residents.

In Kenya, reforestation efforts were implemented around Nairobi National Park and in coastal areas to restore mangrove forests, aligning forest conservation with the promotion of ecotourism. Japanese company Ricoh provided irrigation systems, enabling successful seedling growth in arid regions through advanced technology.

### 2020s: Expansion and Achievements

The projects in Nigeria and Kenya have expanded significantly in the 2020s. In Nigeria, the World Bank-supported NEWMAP (Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project) has facilitated the restoration of approximately 100000 hectares of forest, improving agricultural productivity by 20 percent. Additionally, an investment of 90000000 USD has created 52000 new jobs.

In Kenya, approximately 5000 hectares of mangrove forests have been restored along the coast, enhancing local ecosystems. Reforestation around Nairobi National Park and the Maasai Mara Reserve has supported both tourism and forest conservation. Ricoh's low-energy irrigation systems have contributed to efficient seedling cultivation, expanding forested areas.

### Future Outlook: Expanding Sustainable Development

By 2030, the projects aim to increase total CO2 reductions to 100000 tons annually. Local communities are increasingly involved in forest management, supported by collaborations with agricultural cooperatives. Kenya's Forest Service plans to expand commercial forestry by 100000 hectares by 2025, with the expectation that these efforts will extend to other African countries.

These initiatives in Nigeria and Kenya are recognized as model cases for achieving both sustainable economic growth and greenhouse gas reductions.