The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry has postponed the launch of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP) to Monday, October 27, 2025.
Initially scheduled for Friday, October 24, the event will now begin at 9:00 a.m., with President William Ruto confirmed as the Chief Guest.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, the State Department for Environment and Climate Change stated that the decision to reschedule the event was made in collaboration with partners and stakeholders involved in the programme.
The ministry said the postponement aims to ensure comprehensive preparations ahead of the official launch and to enhance coordination among implementing agencies and participants.
According to the Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, who also serves as the patron of the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme, the rescheduling was a necessary measure to facilitate a successful event that underscores Kenya’s renewed commitment to environmental restoration and climate resilience.
Ng’eno emphasized that while the main launch has been postponed, the Mau Conservation Marathon will proceed as planned on Friday, October 24, 2025, starting at 6:30 a.m.
The marathon, a key part of the programme’s awareness and community engagement component, seeks to mobilize public participation and advocacy in forest conservation efforts.
Ahead of the official launch, the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, EGH, is scheduled to visit the site on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., to assess the level of preparedness.
His inspection visit will provide the final review of logistical and operational arrangements before President Ruto’s arrival on Monday.
The Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP) is a flagship government initiative designed to promote the sustainable restoration of the Mau ecosystem while supporting local livelihoods.
The programme brings together multiple stakeholders, including government departments, conservation partners, and local communities, to jointly manage and rehabilitate the forest complex, one of Kenya’s most vital water towers.
In his statement, Ng’eno conveyed the Ministry’s appreciation to stakeholders and the public for their understanding and continued support.
He assured that the postponement was purely logistical and not indicative of any disruptions in the programme’s implementation.
“MFC-ICLIP sincerely regrets any inconvenience this postponement may cause and appreciates the understanding and continued support as we work together towards the successful restoration and conservation of the Mau Forest Complex,” Ng’eno said.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to delivering tangible results in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The MFC-ICLIP initiative is expected to play a critical role in reversing deforestation trends, restoring biodiversity, and mitigating the effects of climate change within the Mau ecosystem.
It will also support livelihood improvement for local communities through sustainable resource management and conservation-linked economic activities.
Ng’eno concluded by inviting all stakeholders and members of the public to attend the rescheduled event on October 27 and participate actively in the conservation agenda.
“We look forward to your presence and active participation as we work together towards the successful restoration and conservation of the Mau Forest Complex,” he stated.
The postponement reflects the Ministry’s careful planning to ensure that the event aligns with national priorities on environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment.
The launch on October 27 will mark a significant milestone in Kenya’s ongoing journey toward ecological restoration and sustainable forest management.
