Trailblazing For Nature, Inside Kenya’s Epic Forest Challenge 2025

Forests, Fun & Impact, Highlights From The 10th Forest Challenge 2025

On November 29th, 2025, Kereita Forest in Aberdare, Kiambu County, came alive for the 10th edition of The Forest Challenge. The event united environmental advocates, corporate supporters, and nature enthusiasts for a day filled with adventure, learning, and celebration. From the early morning arrivals to the evening’s farewells, participants engaged in a memorable experience that combined outdoor endurance, ecological awareness, and cultural expression amidst the lush greenery of Kenya’s forests.

Organized by KENVO, the East African Wildlife Society (EAWLS), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and The Forest Challenge team, the day kicked off with vibrant entertainment by Gim Events and energizing warm-up exercises led by Bramwel Wangila. The National Anthem set a patriotic tone, followed by prayers from Reverend Julius Njoroge. Opening remarks from Mr. Benjamin Mundi and Ms. Nancy Ogonje energized the crowd, while participants received essential instructions from Mr. Jabes Okumu. The ceremonial flag-off, led by a representative of the Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, officially launched the day’s activities devoted to teamwork and environmental stewardship.

The main event—the Forest Challenge—tested participants’ endurance, strategic thinking, and collaboration. Teams navigated a variety of terrains, pausing to plant trees in a ceremonial activity led by Mr. Mundi, reinforcing the event’s commitment to conservation. Judges John Nyaga (EAWLS), Dr. George Njagi (WCK), and Joseph Macharia (KFS) assessed team performance, while entertainment, awards, and certificate presentations kept spirits high throughout the day.

In the afternoon, influential speakers including Mr. Nelson Muiru (KENVO), Ms. Nancy Ogonje (EAWLS), Mr. Kibet Boen (County Commissioner, Kiambu), Hon. David Kuria (CEC, Water, Environment & Natural Resources), and a representative of Mr. Alex Lemarkoko delivered messages highlighting the importance of sustainable practices, community involvement, and collaborative action in preserving Kenya’s forests for future generations.

The success of The Forest Challenge 2025 was made possible by the support of environmentally-conscious sponsors, including Safarilink, Madison Group, Kevian, Entumoto, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), PKF, Intrepid, Tradewinds, Hivos People’s Unlimited, RSA, RUPA’s, and others. Their contribution demonstrated the power of public-private partnerships in driving meaningful environmental impact and ensuring long-term forest conservation.

Go Places provided live media coverage of the event, capturing every memorable moment—from the intensity of the challenges to the joyful tree-planting ceremonies. As participants returned to Nairobi, the clear message resonated: Kenya’s forests are invaluable, and collective action today ensures their protection and prosperity for generations to come.