CIFOR-ICRAF Kenya

CIFOR-ICRAF, formed by merging the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF), is a global leader in sustainable landscape research. For over 75 years, the organization has focused on using trees, forests, and agroforestry to address challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity. CIFOR-ICRAF is part of the CGIAR network, with headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, and operations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Founded in 1978, ICRAF led agroforestry research. It showed how combining trees, crops, and livestock can improve livelihoods. It also helps restore degraded land and build climate resilience. CIFOR, established in 1993, contributed expertise in forest management, policy, and equity-focused research. Together, CIFOR-ICRAF turns science into action. It informs policies and supports practical solutions for communities and governments.

In Kenya, CIFOR-ICRAF works with farmers, county governments, universities, NGOs, and development agencies. Its research focuses on soil fertility, water management, climate adaptation, sustainable woodfuel production, and land restoration. Key achievements include supporting the National Agroforestry Strategy, Bioenergy Strategy, and the National Climate Change Action Plan. Programs such as protein-rich fodder development, fruit tree mapping, and soil tools have increased productivity and resilience to droughts and floods.

CIFOR-ICRAF also operates through partnership platforms, engagement landscapes, and flagship projects to address long-term challenges. Projects cover areas like Tsavo-Amboseli-Mara-Serengeti and refugee-hosting regions. These efforts strengthen food systems, conserve biodiversity, enhance carbon storage, and promote fair resource management.

With the vision of “thriving landscapes where people prosper and nature flourishes,” CIFOR-ICRAF Kenya combines science, innovation, and partnerships to improve livelihoods. It guides national policies and advances sustainable forest and agroforestry practices.