Melia volkensii has been identified as a favorable drought-resistant tree species being promoted in Kenya as a solution for Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL). The fast-growing tree, which is a good source of hardwood timber, is capable of withstanding harsh weather, including resistance to pests such as termites, hence making it viable for dryland forestry.

Additionally, the project is building capacity within Kenya’s forestry sector through research, best practice demonstrations and tree nursery support to expand the growing of the species.

The technical project, funded by the Japanese Government, seamlessly augments Kenya’s national forestry goals targeting the attainment of 30% tree cover by 2032, which will be achieved through the planting of 15 billion trees. ASAL areas are seen as significant contributors to this goal due to the vast expanses of land that require reforestation.

So far, the project has benefited 84 farmers across the counties of Taita Taveta, Kilifi, Kwale, Nyeri, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Makueni, and Kitui. The project has already put in motion plans to recruit and support another 189 farmers for the upcoming October/November rainy season.

SFS-CORECC is also collaborating with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) on a commercial forestry planting initiative involving establishing Melia volkensii demonstration woodlots and supporting the establishment of a total of 17 private and institutional tree nurseries. These efforts are supported through the provision of improved tree species sourced from the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), which leads the third component of the project focused on tree breeding.