Kenya Reforestation Project
Site
Milihoi/Kichwa Cha Nyoka
Reforestation Conservation 785,36 ha
Milihoi/Kichwa Cha Nyoka

The name “Kichwa Cha Nyoka” directly translates to “head of the snake.” This site is
located within the greater Milihoi channel. The Milihoi channel has mangrove estuaries which are vital to the area’s ecologically diverse bird and marine life.

The Milihoi channel is within Lamu county. This area faces a number of challenges,
including insufficient social services, very little freshwater, underdeveloped
infrastructure, and food insecurity. The channel is near Lamu Town, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site that has an incredibly rich history. The surrounding areas (including this project site) have a history of trade with countries as far away as India, dating back to the 12th century. The local artisans still make dhows (traditional sailing vessels) by hand.

Historically, mangroves have been an important part of the local economy. They were harvested for dhow construction, export for the tanning industry (ash and bark), and building materials. Mangrove harvesting was banned in 1997, but harvesting continued despite the ban. Recently, legal harvesting has been reinstated (as of 2019).

Site Name: Milihoi/Kichwa Cha Nyoka
Population: 3,441
Type of Reforestation: Mangrove
Overall Site Size: 1,619 Hectares
Number of Trees per Hectare: 10,000/ha
Total Planting Capacity: 15,900,000
Land Ownership: Government
Year 1 Planting Commitment: 1,000,000
Total Annual Commitment: $150,000