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Story Publication logo January 19, 2024

Video Series: Battle Against Deforestation and Droughts in Kenya

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dry land
English

A Kenyan community of herdsmen have been on the move for five years in search of pasture, they are...

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Step into the heart of Mount Kenya, where the delicate dance between nature and humanity reaches a critical juncture. In the past decade alone, 20% of the Mount Kenya ecosystem has succumbed to the relentless forces of deforestation, according to the United Nations Environment Programme. This not only paints a tragic picture of vanishing greenery but also spells a perilous fate for the purity and abundance of downstream water resources. Join us in this poignant short film that was produced with support from the Rainforest Journalism Fund in partnership with the Pulitzer Center as we navigate through the consequences of deforestation, unraveling a narrative of diminishing water quality and quantity. Witness the silent tragedy of sedimentation exacerbated by the disappearance of these ancient trees.


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Embark on a visual odyssey into the heart of Kenya's ecological treasure—the Mau Forest Complex. This cinematic journey unveils the awe-inspiring grandeur of the largest closed-canopy forest ecosystem in the country, a lush haven that cradles the largest Indigenous montane forest in East Africa. As the lifeblood of the Kenyan Rift Valley and Western Kenya, the Mau Forest Complex stands as the linchpin in our delicate ecosystem. Yet, the haunting reality echoes through the ancient trees—a staggering loss of 19% of Mau Forest's canopy cover, equivalent to approximately 533 sq km, between 2001 and 2022. In this evocative short film that was produced with support from the Rainforest Journalism Fund in partnership with the Pulitzer Center, witness the silent battle against deforestation that imperils this crucial water catchment. Join us as we delve into the profound connection between tree cover loss and the existential threat faced by the Mau Forest Complex.

Nestled majestically in the heart of Kenya, the Aberdares stands as a vital water catchment, weaving life through the veins of the nation. Its rivers and streams, flowing with pristine purity, bestow the gift of freshwater upon millions. However, the whispering winds through the Aberdares carry a tale of concern—a narrative of deforestation that echoes through the ancient trees. In this evocative short film that was produced with support from the Rainforest Journalism Fund in partnership with the Pulitzer Center, delve into the lush embrace of the Aberdares and witness the poignant struggle for preservation. Explore the delicate balance between human needs and the forest's invaluable resources, as we strive to safeguard this lifeline for generations to come.

In the heart of Kenya, the resilient Maasai herders embark on a poignant journey through diverse landscapes in search of pasture for their cherished livestock, the backbone of their livelihood. Battling prolonged droughts, their odyssey often leads them to the bustling cityscape of Nairobi, a stark contrast to their pastoral traditions. In this short yet powerful glimpse into their world, witness the profound impact of climate change on these nomadic communities. Struggling against the odds, the loss of precious cattle to the relentless forces of nature becomes a heartbreaking reality, pushing them further into the clutches of poverty. This film was produced with support from the Rainforest Journalism Fund in partnership with the Pulitzer Center.