This campaign, initiated by Tracy Makheti, sought to prevent the Kenyan government from lifting the six-year ban on logging in public and community forests, a decision implemented in July 2023.

The ban had been critical in protecting Kenya’s vital ecosystems, home to endangered species like the mountain bongo and African forest elephant, while supporting millions of livelihoods. Lifting the ban threatened to reverse the hard-won progress in achieving the 10% tree cover target, exposing forests to rampant commercial and illegal logging. As Kenya grapples with the climate crisis, the importance of preserving mature forests outweighs planting new seedlings, making this issue a fight for climate resilience and biodiversity.

Although the ban was lifted on July 2nd, 2023, this campaign mobilised thousands of voices to challenge the decision. Greenpeace Africa has since taken up the mantle, amassing almost 30,000 signatures to demand the reinstatement of the ban. The fight continues to hold the Kenyan government accountable, ensuring forests remain protected for the environment, wildlife, and future generations.

Forests are our lifeline; together, we can ensure their survival.