The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a nature reserve in northern Kenya. It is home to numerous endangered species and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Together with Zoo Zurich, TREECK® is helping to protect and restore this vital reserve while strengthening local communities.
The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy borders four major forest areas, including the Ngare Ndare and Mukogodo Forests. These ancient forests are a crucial source of life not only for wildlife but also for the local population. However, increasing population pressure, drought, and resource overuse are putting these valuable ecosystems at risk. TREECK®, in partnership with Zoo Zurich, is committed to the long-term protection and sustainable development of these forests.
Ngare Ndare Forest is a primeval forest at the foothills of Mount Kenya. It provides food, water, and shelter for numerous species, including birds, elephants, and the endangered black rhinoceros. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage, this forest plays a vital role as a wildlife corridor within the region's ecological network. To safeguard this area, the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust was established—a community-led organization formed by the neighboring villages. Thanks to TREECK®'s support, reforestation efforts are strengthening biodiversity and ensuring the long-term wellbeing of the entire region.
Mukogodo Forest is Kenya’s largest national forest reserve and one of the country’s last remaining dry forests. It is also the only forest managed exclusively by indigenous communities. In recent years, drought, overgrazing, and uncontrolled logging have severely impacted the area. With the help of TREECK®, the ILMAMUSI Community Forest Association is implementing restoration and reforestation projects. ILMAMUSI is an acronym derived from the names of the indigenous pastoralist groups Ilngwesi, Makurian, Mukogodo, and Sieku, who surround the Mukogodo Forest.
The communities living around the Ngare Ndare and Mukogodo Forests rely on forest resources such as honey, herbs, firewood, water, grazing land, and building materials. In addition to reforesting these forests, each TREECK® product supports the work of the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and the Kenya Forest Service, helping small-scale farmers and pastoralists sustainably manage their grazing lands.
The conservation areas in Ngare Ndare and Mukogodo are home to an incredible diversity of species. Alongside large mammals such as elephants, buffalo, and big cats, the region also supports a vast array of birds, reptiles, and insects. These areas serve as vital refuges for endangered species such as the black rhinoceros and Grevy’s zebra, which are threatened by poaching. Reforestation efforts help preserve the ecological balance of the region.
Together with Zoo Zurich, TREECK® supports the reforestation of the Ngare Ndare and Mukogodo Forests. Every TREECK® product sold contributes to the long-term regeneration of these unique landscapes.
For every TREECK® product sold, a tree is planted, and existing forests are protected. By empowering local communities in sustainable reforestation, TREECK® and Zoo Zurich contribute to preserving these valuable ecosystems.