Hundreds Join Forest Challenge 2024 To Save Kenya’s Forests

Kenya’s Forests Get A Boost As Participants Race For Conservation And Sustainable Development

Conservation and fitness enthusiasts gathered in Kereita Forest, Kiambu County, on November 30 for the 9th edition of the Forest Challenge. This physically demanding event, themed “Nurturing Nature for a Sustainable Tomorrow,” raised funds to restore Kenya’s degraded water towers, reinforcing a collective commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

The Forest Challenge is a collaborative initiative led by the East African Wild Life Society (EAWLS), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and the Kijabe Environment Volunteers (KENVO). Participants braved a series of grueling obstacles in the forest, combining adventure with purpose: to raise resources for conserving Kenya’s critical water catchment areas, which are under threat from deforestation and unsustainable practices. The event also aims to improve the livelihoods of forest-adjacent communities and build resilience against the impacts of climate change.

This year’s participants experienced a unique blend of outdoor adventure and environmental advocacy. Through their involvement, individuals and organisations demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting Kenya’s natural heritage while addressing the global challenge of climate change.

The Forest Challenge also provides a platform for corporate organisations to showcase their social responsibility efforts while benefiting from event branding. Sponsors and donors contribute directly to fostering a sustainable future through financial support, donations, or in-kind contributions.

The Forest Champions Awards

Kiambu Water & Sewerage Company emerged as the winner of the Forest Champions Awards, followed by Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club in second place, with Kevian Kenya Limited taking third position. Trophies were presented to companies whose sponsored teams achieved the top three positions in the Challenge.

Forest Conservation Award

The Forest Conservation Award was won by Milestone Games Limited (SportPesa). This trophy is given to the corporate organisation that provides the highest monetary sponsorship or brings the largest number of participants to the event.

Forest Stewardship Award

The Kimende Orthodox Mission Health Centre received the Forest Stewardship Award, which recognises outstanding in-kind contributions by corporate organisations. The value of these contributions is assessed against those of other sponsors.

School Category Winners

In the school category, pupils from Sunrise of Africa School in Kitengela received medals awarded to the top three teams of secondary school students aged 14 to 18.

Additionally, four-member teams representing the top three corporates—Kiambu Water & Sewerage Company, Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club, and Kevian Kenya Limited—were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, respectively.

All participants and volunteers received certificates in recognition of their efforts.

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