Investment in private forestry in Bahati Constituency has become a profitable undertaking, a Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) official has said.
Edwin Mwangi says that most farmers have ventured into the forestry farming due to increased demand for fire wood and fuel.
“It is encouraging to see farmers engaging in tree planting. This way we can address deforestation and still satisfy the demand for wood,” said Mwangi.
He urged farmers who have invested in the commercial forestry to double their efforts to meet the growing demand of wood by industries and for firewood.
Speaking during a tour of Bahati Forest, Mwangi urged farmers to cooperate with his institution to gain useful information regarding forestry.
Jack Kamau, a farmer who has invested heavily in commercial forestry said the sector is recording huge profits as a result of high demand of wood products.
“Private forestry is heading north (making profit). We sell beams to local carpenters, timber yards, locally and nationally,” said Kamau.