Kakamega Forest — the only tropical rainforest remaining in Kenya — is a lifeline for biodiversity, local communities, and East Africa’s natural heritage. In February 2023, a major initiative was launched to secure this irreplaceable ecosystem: the Kakamega Forest Electric Fence Project.
What started as a bold conservation vision is now evident on the ground. The first 15 kilometres of fencing set the foundation, signalling strong commitment to protecting the forest from ongoing threats such as habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
Today, Phase Two is well underway. As of October 2025, 31.5 kilometres out of the planned 35 have been completed — a milestone made possible through the incredible partnership between the M-PESA Foundation, Rhino Ark, the County Governments of Kakamega and Vihiga, and our dedicated colleagues from the Kenya Wildlife Service and Kenya Forest Service.
When finished, the fence will stretch 117 kilometres around the forest, shielding one of East Africa’s last pockets of tropical rainforest. It’s more than just a fence — it’s a promise. A promise to protect wildlife and water catchments, to support sustainable livelihoods, and to ensure that future generations inherit a thriving Kakamega Forest.
