Baringo County has launched a KSh 61 million environmental initiative under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and supporting climate-resilient livelihoods across the Lake Baringo–Lake Bogoria ecosystem.
The launch event, held at the Kapicha Community Ecotourism and Conservation Centre in Kapnosgei Location, Kisanana Ward, marked the beginning of Phase 7 of the GEF programme.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi discolesd that the initiative is supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and implemented in partnership with Farming Systems Kenya and local communities.
The programme will fund 16 community-driven projects focused on land restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation.
These efforts target the fragile Lake Bogoria–Lake Baringo landscapes, which have faced years of environmental degradation due to climate change, overgrazing, and unsustainable land use.
Governor Cheboi, Principal Secretary for Environment Dr. Eng. Festus Ngeno, and Mogotio MP Reuben Kiborek presided over the event alongside the UNDP Kenya Resident Representative and other senior officials.
The county boss emphasized the strategic importance of the programme in enhancing community livelihoods while safeguarding Baringo’s ecological integrity.
He also announced that the county has submitted an application to UNESCO seeking recognition under the Global Geoparks Network to highlight the region’s unique geological and cultural heritage.
MP Reuben Kiborek reaffirmed his support for environmental conservation and sustainable development, noting that the new projects will empower grassroots communities and promote ecosystem resilience.
Kiborek pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to ensure lasting impact across Mogotio and Baringo.