Raphael Leneo is the Chairman of Entarara Community Forest Association (CFA)
WWF Kenya
Establishment of Entarara Community Forest Association (CFA)
The formation of the Entarara Community Forest Association (CFA) marked a critical step in managing and conserving the forest through community engagement. WWF facilitated discussions with the seven nearby villages on the benefits of creating a CFA to allow legal and organized community involvement in forest management. By 2023, the CFA was officially formed, with a governance structure and a participatory forest management plan (PFMP) developed in collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service and Kajiado County. The CFA serves as the primary organization responsible for implementing restoration, protection, and community-led activities in the forest. It plays an essential role in mobilizing community members, organizing user groups, and ensuring that forest resources are managed sustainably, offering an inclusive platform for local voices and promoting ownership.
- Legal Framework: Kenya’s forestry laws support the establishment of CFAs and participatory forest management.
- Community Buy-in: Engagement through village meetings built local trust and commitment.
- Capacity Building: WWF provided training on governance, financial management, and planning to empower the CFA
Forming a CFA requires time and structured engagement to ensure community trust and organizational effectiveness. Clear governance structures, with roles and responsibilities well-defined, facilitate efficient management. Empowering community members with leadership and management skills is crucial for the CFA’s sustainability. The project found that regular consultations and clear legal guidelines for community associations are essential to secure buy-in and align with national forestry policies.