The Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP) is a landmark 10-year initiative launched by His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto, PhD, CGH, under the leadership of Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change. Valued at KES 21.5 billion, the programme targets over 317,000 hectares across the Eastern, Molo, Western, and South-West Mau forest blocks – making it one of the most ambitious landscape restoration efforts in East Africa.
The Mau Forest Complex, Kenya’s largest water tower, sustains 12 major rivers feeding Lake Victoria, Lake Nakuru, and the Maasai Mara -Serengeti. Years of deforestation, encroachment, and poor land use have degraded this vital ecosystem. The MFC-ICLIP brings together government, communities, and partners to restore the forest and safeguard Kenya’s natural heritage for future generations.
The programme’s design is guided by five strategic objectives: restoring degraded landscapes and ecosystem services; supporting nature-positive enterprises and agricultural value chains; promoting circular economy and green jobs; advancing environmental education, research, and youth innovation; and strengthening governance and institutional frameworks for sustainable forest management. These pillars ensure that conservation, innovation, and livelihoods move forward hand in hand.
MFC-ICLIP operates under a multi-stakeholder model, where collaboration drives success. National agencies, county governments, community forest associations, NGOs, academia, and the private sector all play vital roles in implementing activities such as reforestation, sustainable farming, renewable energy adoption, and youth-led environmental innovation. This inclusive approach enhances ownership, accountability, and shared responsibility for long-term success.
