I&M Foundation Injects KES 2 Million into Ngong Sanctuary Forest

The I&M Foundation has strengthened its commitment to environmental conservation and community empowerment by injecting an additional KES 2 million into the management of the Ngong Sanctuary Forest.The support, announced during a handover ceremony held in Nairobi on Thursday, is part of the Foundation’s ongoing Project Imarisha initiative, which focuses on sustainability, education, and community development.

According to the Foundation, the funds will be used to facilitate fence management, purchase 14 scout uniforms, and cater for one year’s salary support for the sanctuary’s rangers. The move is aimed at enhancing the protection of the forest, safeguarding its biodiversity, and ensuring continued safety for visitors.

Speaking during the ceremony, Sustainability Lead Dipna Shah said the latest support underscores the importance of investing in the people who are directly involved in conservation work.She noted that while infrastructure such as fences remains important, the long-term success of the sanctuary depends largely on the individuals tasked with protecting it.

Shah said the scouts and rangers are the heartbeat of the forest, adding that providing them with uniforms and salary support will enable them to perform their duties with dignity, confidence, and security.Under Project Imarisha, the Foundation has already made significant investments in the sanctuary’s infrastructure.

So far, the project has overseen the installation of 14.2 kilometres of fencing, including 5 kilometres of electrified perimeter fencing, to improve visitor safety and secure the forest boundaries.In addition, 35 kilometres of nature trails have been developed, positioning the Ngong Sanctuary Forest as an alternative eco-tourism and recreational destination comparable to Karura Forest.

The initiative has also supported the construction of rangers’ housing and an ablution block, improving the welfare and working conditions of those stationed at the sanctuary.The Foundation noted that the 14 scouts, many of whom have been recruited from neighbouring communities, continue to play a critical role as frontline guardians of the sanctuary.

Their responsibilities include protecting the forest’s biodiversity and ensuring that visitors enjoy a safe and welcoming environment.With the completion of its primary infrastructure phase, Project Imarisha is now transitioning into the long-term stewardship and maintenance phase, with community participation expected to remain central.

The Foundation expressed confidence that the Ngong Sanctuary Forest is now well-positioned to grow into one of Kenya’s leading destinations for conservation, environmental education, and nature-based recreation.