It says fencing the forest is for economic and conservation gains.
Community Forest Association national coordinator Joseline Nthambu said fencing of forests has shown economic improvement for surrounding communities.
She said the government through KFS has facilitated more than 100 farmers from Kaptagat blocks to benchmark success stories.
The residents, from Benon, Kipkabus, Sabor, Kessup and Kaptagat under the Kaptagat Intergrated and Livelyhood Programme have visited KFS projects in Kericho, Bomet, Kiambu, Karura Forest, Embu and Meru.
She said fencing has enhanced controlled access, better grazing measures and helped resolve human - wildlife conflict.
Boniface Mulwa, an official from KFS said for a very long time there has been misconception that fencing of forests locks out surrounding communities.
He said revenue has instead gone up and farmers are benefitting more.
"For instance, in Eburu forest station alone, revenue went up by 600 per cent and farmers are enjoying a lot through bee keeping, cut and carry and dairy projects," Mulwa said.
He said this has also improved the income of farmers.
Morris Anyanga, a small scale dairy farmer in Molo, Kuresoi South, said his dairy farm has benefited from bio gas produced from the forest, which is as a result of reduced deforestation.
Forestry PS Githonga Mugambi said the ministry has taken a significant step to strengthen community engagement and capacity building ahead of the upcoming forest fencing initiative.
The programme has been organised by KFS as part of its ongoing commitment to support local communities in sustainable forest management.
A comprehensive benchmarking exercise has been arranged for Community Forest Association members from several key regions, including Kessup, Benon, Kaptagat, Kipkabus and Sabor forest stations, which represent adjacent community partners.
Representatives from the Ministry of Interior also participated in the bench marking as they play a critical role in the success of the programme.
The benchmarking, which started on July 28, is designed to expose CFA members to best practices in sustainable forest management, community participation and ecosystem protection as demonstrated in other parts of the country.
The tour started at Chepalungu Forest Station – Siongiroi Block in Bomet county, proceeded to Londiani Forest in Kericho county, and then to the renowned Karura Urban Forest in Nairobi county. Today, the delegation continues its learning journey in Meru Forest Station in Meru county.
