Taita taveta farmers embraces Melia Volkensii (Kirimbutu) Tree farming to improve farmers' livelihoods

oxfarmorganic@gmail.com Farming News January 16, 2025

Farmers in Taita-Taveta County attended a Farmer Field Day organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under the SFS-CORECC project at Oliver Mara’s farm in Rahasi Village, Sagalla Ward. The event focused on promoting the commercial growing of Melia Volkensii (Kirimbutu) as a sustainable solution to climate change and a pathway to improving farmers’ livelihoods.

The SFS-CORECC project, officially titled “Strengthening Forestry Sector Development and Community Resilience to Climate Change through Sustainable Forest Management and Landscape Restoration,” empowers farmers to adopt sustainable forestry practices.

Oliver Mara, who planted 162 Melia Volkensii trees in 2023, shared his success, noting that 152 trees survived due to the project’s technical support, tools, and a 50% subsidy on seedlings, which reduced financial barriers.

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Grantone Mwandawiro, the CECM for Water, Sanitation, Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, highlighted the program’s alignment with Governor H.E. Dr. Andrew Mwadime-Wakujaa’s goal of planting 360 million trees in the next decade. He praised the project for reducing costs for farmers, offering each seedling at half price (Ksh 35), and providing essential training and support to ensure success.

“This initiative is not just about combating climate change; it is also an economic opportunity for farmers for instance Melia Volkensii becomes fully mature in 11 years and yields timber worth approximately Ksh 9,000 per tree in the current market. By investing in Melia Volkensii, farmers can secure steady income while contributing to environmental sustainability,” he said.

Saito San, the Chief Technical Advisor for the SFS-CORECC project, commended the farmers’ efforts in adopting sustainable forestry. “This project is about restoring landscapes and improving lives. Melia Volkensii represents hope for resilience and sustainability in these communities,” he said.

The event also featured training on planting techniques and the benefits of intercropping Melia Volkensii with other crops, leaving farmers inspired to embrace commercial forestry. This initiative underscores the critical role of sustainable forestry in addressing climate change, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering economic development in Taita-Taveta County.