Highland Hub

From a monoculture eucalyptus plantation to a thrivingresilientbiodiversefunctionalregenerative sub-Afromontane forest

Our Highland Hub is located at the Brackenhurst Botanic Garden & Forest. It is one of the few remaining green spaces near Nairobi and the only accredited botanic garden in Kenya.

Location:

Elevation range:

Ecosystem:

Average temp:

Average rainfall:

Tigoni, Limuru 

 1800 – 2150 meters

Afromontain forest

17°c

900mm per year

FORESTS

hectares
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indigenous tree species
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indigenous shrub species
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bird species
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seed bank

indigenous seeds stored
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indigenous species stored
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Botanic garden

indigenous flower species
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why the ecosystem is important

Biodiversity Hotspot

High Plant Diversity: The Afromontane region is known for its high plant diversity, with numerous endemic and rare species. This makes it a valuable area for conservation and study.

Unique Flora: The ecosystem supports unique flora that are not found in other parts of Kenya or even the world. This includes a variety of tree species, shrubs, and herbs adapted to the montane climate.

Ecological Functions

Water Catchment: The dense forests in the Tigoni Limuru area play a crucial role in water catchment and regulation. They help in maintaining the water cycle, which is vital for both the local environment and human populations.

Soil Protection: The vegetation cover helps prevent soil erosion, maintaining soil fertility and structure. This is essential for agriculture and sustaining local communities.

Climate Regulation

Carbon Sequestration: Trees and plants in this ecosystem act as significant carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This helps mitigate the effects of climate change.

Microclimate Stabilization: The dense forest cover contributes to stabilizing the local microclimate, affecting temperature and precipitation patterns beneficially.

 

Habitat for Wildlife

Support for Fauna: The plants and trees provide habitat and food for a wide range of animal species, including birds, insects, and mammals. This biodiversity is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.

Pollination and Seed Dispersal: The flora supports various pollinators, which are essential for the reproduction of many plant species. Trees also offer seed dispersal mechanisms that sustain plant diversity.

Socio-Economic Importance

Medicinal Plants: Many plants in the Tigoni Limuru Afromontane ecosystem have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine. This is an important resource for local communities.

Timber and Non Timber Forest Products: The forest provides timber and non-timber forest products, contributing to the local economy and livelihoods. This includes fruits, nuts, and materials for crafts and construction.

Objectives

01

To restore Kenya's degraded afromontane habitats

02

To establish a botanic garden and an arboretum

03

To engage in partnerships with other organisations

04

To conduct research on highland ecosystems to inform best restoration practices

Activities

  • Research: Upkeep and continued restoration of the Indigenous forest
  • Seedbank: Collecting, processing, testing indigenous tree seeds for propagation and sale.
  • Implementing a biodiversity focus garden plan: Propagation of indigenous herbaceous plants, garden project plans
  • Education of ecosystem restoration champions through education seed to forest program.
  • Training of seed collectors for a seed collection network, and indigenous tree propagation.

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