Paul Arithi 
Simon Ng’ang’a, Secretary of the Ngong Road Forest Association (left), Dipna Shah, Sustainability Lead at I&M Bank (second left), and Christine Sidi from the bank’s Sustainability team (right) hand over a uniform kit to Salome Wambui, a scout at the Ngong Road Forest Association Sanctuary during the Project Imaarisha uniform handover by the I&M Foundation.
- I&M Foundation Strengthens Conservation Efforts with Additional Support to Ngong Sanctuary Forest;
I&M Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation and community empowerment by contributing an additional KES 2 million to support the fence management of the Ngong Sanctuary Forest as part of its ongoing Project Imarisha initiative.
This contribution will facilitate the purchase of 14 scout uniforms and provide one year’s salary support for the sanctuary’s rangers, ensuring continued protection of the forest and its biodiversity.
Speaking during the handover ceremony,Sustainability Lead,Dipna Shah,emphasized the importance of supporting the people behind conservation efforts.
“As we reach this final handover milestone, our focus is on ensuring sufficient, sustained support to help this forest transition successfully into its next chapter.
While infrastructure and fences are important, the true heartbeat of this forest is its people.
By providing uniforms and salary support, we are ensuring that these scouts can perform their duties with dignity and security,laying a strong foundation for the long-term stewardship of this sanctuary.”
Project Imarisha, launched by I&M Foundation, focuses on environmental sustainability, education, and community upliftment.
The Ngong Sanctuary Forest partnership exemplifies the Foundation’s long-term vision of creating resilient ecosystems and empowering local guardians of nature.
To date, the project has the following;
· Installed 14.2km of fencing (including 5km of electrified perimeter) to ensure visitor safety.
· Developed 35km of nature trails, positioning the sanctuary as an alternative to the Karura Forest.
· Supported the construction of Rangers Housing and Ablution block
Sustainability Lead at I&M Bank (second left), and Christine Sidi from the bank’s
Sustainability team (right) hand over a uniform kit to Salome Wambui, a scout at the Ngong Road Forest Association Sanctuary during the Project Imaarisha uniform handover by the I&M Foundation.
“Through Project Imarisha, we are committed to safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage while empowering the communities that protect it.
Our support to Ngong Sanctuary Forest reflects our belief that conservation and community well-being go hand in hand.” She added.
The 14 scouts, many drawn from the surrounding communities, serve as the frontline guardians of the sanctuary-protecting its biodiversity while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.
As Project Imarisha concludes its primary infrastructure phase,Ngong Sanctuary Forest is now positioned to grow into a premier destination for conservation, environmental education, and nature-based recreation in Kenya.
