Environmental restoration firm Earthtree Company Ltd has moved to reassure farmers in Uasin Gishu County after a section of them raised concerns over alleged lack of transparency in carbon credit contracts.
In a detailed statement issued on Tuesday, the firm clarified that it neither acquires agricultural land nor imposes restrictions on landowners. Instead, it partners with farmers to implement regenerative land use practices such as tree planting, agroforestry and beekeeping.
“We are proud to partner with farmers and communities in bringing positive change to landscapes and contribute to making catchments more resilient to climate change,” said Janet Jeruto- Engagement and Compliance Manager.
The company said its initiatives are aligned with Kenya’s national goal to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 and insisted that it only supports the use of indigenous and productive trees. It also disassociated itself from genetically modified (GMO) tree varieties.
Earthtree, which operates a nursery in Kenmosa Village, Eldoret, employs close to 70 locals and claims it has the capacity to grow millions of trees to support environmental restoration across the region.
Ruth Kemboi, Chairperson of the County Kenyan Farmers Association and a farmer near the Earthtree nursery, welcomed the initiative, saying it had already benefited the community.
“We really appreciate the support and encouragement that their project has given to us. A lot of local jobs have already been created, and we want to see those jobs stay in the region,” she said.
Mrs Kemboi, who is a Senior Consultant, Community Engagement also backed the company’s beekeeping initiative, noting that it offered farmers a viable alternative source of income.
“We like the idea of the bee hives because we already have honey bees, and we encourage landowners to get those bee hives from the project,” she added.
However, not all farmers are convinced. Some have raised concerns about contracts they claim were signed without adequate consultation or explanation.
“We signed papers without fully understanding what they meant for our land. We just want to make sure we are not giving up our rights,” said a farmer from Moiben who requested anonymity.
In response, Earthtree has invited farmers to its nursery offices for clarification and consultations. The company says it is also planning to assist eligible farmers with replanting trees that did not survive the 2024 planting season.
The company further alleged that individuals impersonating Earthtree officials have been spreading misinformation online. It warned the public to disregard unverified communication and to report any impersonation to the authorities.
The latest developments reflect growing tension around carbon credit initiatives in Kenya, with stakeholders calling for more transparency and community engagement in environmental projects involving private actors.
