14. agroforestry research in kenya: an overview

14.8 Other organizations involved in agroforestry research

A large number of other institutions conduct research or informal trials on agroforestry, often closely coupled with extension. Only a few of those organizations are mentioned here.

Ministry of Energy (KREDP, KWDP/KWAP)

The Ministry of Energy has been the parent ministry for both the KWDP/KWAP, which has already been described, and the Kenya Renewable Energy Development Project (KREDP). Both projects have contributed to agroforestry development, but research was a particular part of the agenda at KREDP. Agroforestry Energy Centres were established in the early 1980s. One of these centres is located at Mtwapa in the coastal zone. The main objective of the Centre is to address the problem of declining soil fertility and to find solutions to the shortages of firewood and poles in the coastal zone. Hedgerow intercropping trials with several tree species in combination with maize are continuing there. A large amount of data were collected from those trials, but unfortunately very little has been analysed.

International Livestock Centre for Africa

KARI and the International Livestock Centre for Africa (ILCA) also carry out collaborative research in the coastal zone. The main focus is on fodder and milk production, with special emphasis on how best to utilize available land and labour. Research is conducted both on station and on farm, with improved milk production as a main objective.

CARE

CARE and KEFRI have run a collaborative programme since 1985 in Siaya District. Activities include trials on hedgerow intercropping, soil-conservation measures, farm woodlots, boundary planting, intercropping and mulching of fruit trees, live fences and windbreaks.

Kenya Energy Non-Governmental Organizations (KENGO)

Although KENGO is not a research body, some of its activities have contributed significantly to knowledge and technology development. Of particular interest are KENGO's activities with regard to the development of fuel-saving stoves and documentation of indigenous tree species.

Universities

Egerton University, Moi University and the University of Nairobi are all conducting research on agroforestry or closely related issues.

Tea Research Foundation

The Tea Research Foundation is conducting research on trees in relation to tea growing.

Coffee Research Foundation

The Coffee Research Foundation is conducting research on trees in relation to coffee growing, and in particular on the effects of shade trees on coffee.

The National Museums of Kenya/Freedom from Hunger Council Indigenous Food Plants Project (IFPP)

The East Africa Herbarium is a valuable institution for agroforesters. The Herbarium can often assist in tree identification, and in addition they are carrying out research on rare tree species.

The Indigenous Food Plant Project (IFPP), which is run in collaboration with the Freedom from Hunger Council, has contributed in documenting indigenous species and their uses for food.