Environmental restoration firm Earthtree Company Limited has moved to reassure farmers in Uasin Gishu County following concerns over transparency in carbon credit contracts.
In a announcement issued Tuesday, the business enterprise clarified that it does not acquire land or area restrictions on landowners. Instead, Earthtree companions with farmers to sell regenerative land use practices along with tree planting, agroforestry, and beekeeping.
“We are proud to partner with farmers and communities in bringing high-quality trade to landscapes and make a contribution to creating catchments more resilient to climate exchange,” stated Janet Jeruto, Engagement and Compliance Manager.
Earthtree emphasised that its initiatives assist Kenya’s aim of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, and that it completely promotes indigenous and efficient timber.
The company also disassociated itself from genetically changed (GMO) tree types.
Operating a nursery in Kenmosa Village, Eldoret, the organisation employs almost 70 locals and claims the ability to develop tens of millions of trees for nearby healing efforts.
Ruth Kemboi, Chairperson of the County Kenyan Farmers Association and a farmer near the Earthtree nursery, welcomed the undertaking’s effect on the area people.
“We absolutely respect the aid and encouragement that their undertaking has given to us. A lot of nearby jobs have already been created, and we need to see those jobs stay in the region,” said Kemboi, who is also a senior consultant for network engagement.
She additionally praised the beekeeping initiative, calling it a feasible opportunity income supply for farmers.
“We just like the idea of the beehives because we already have honeybees, and we encourage landowners to get those beehives from the challenge.”
However, no longer all farmers are glad. Some claim they have been not nicely informed before signing contracts.
“We signed papers with out absolutely expertise what they meant for our land. We just want to ensure we aren’t giving up our rights,” said a Moiben farmer, who requested anonymity.
In reaction, Earthtree has invited worried farmers to its offices for consultations and clarification.
The business enterprise additionally pledged to help eligible farmers with replanting bushes that failed throughout the 2024 planting season.
Earthtree in addition alleged that impersonators posing as its officers have been spreading incorrect information on-line.
The firm urged the general public to record unverified communications and viable fraud to the authorities.
The situation highlights developing scrutiny over carbon credit score programmes in Kenya.
Stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and community engagement as environmental initiatives grow to be greater commercialised.
