Earthtree moves to calm fears over carbon credit contracts in Uasin Gishu

PHOTO: COURTESY/EARTHTREE COMPANY LIMITED

Environmental restoration firm Earthtree Company Limited has moved to reassure farmers in Uasin Gishu County following concerns over transparency in carbon credit contracts.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the company clarified that it does not acquire land or place restrictions on landowners. Instead, Earthtree partners with farmers to promote 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.

Earthtree emphasized that its projects support Kenya’s goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, and that it exclusively promotes indigenous and productive trees.

The firm also disassociated itself from genetically modified (GMO) tree varieties.

Operating a nursery in Kenmosa Village, Eldoret, the company employs nearly 70 locals and claims the capacity to grow millions of trees for regional restoration efforts.

Ruth Kemboi, Chairperson of the County Kenyan Farmers Association and a farmer near the Earthtree nursery, welcomed the project’s impact on the local 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,” said Kemboi, who is also a senior consultant for community engagement.

She also praised the beekeeping initiative, calling it a viable alternative income source for farmers.

“We like the idea of the beehives because we already have honeybees, and we encourage landowners to get those beehives from the project.”

However, not all farmers are satisfied. Some claim they were not properly informed before signing contracts.

“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 Moiben farmer, who requested anonymity.

In response, Earthtree has invited concerned farmers to its offices for consultations and clarification.

The company also pledged to assist eligible farmers with replanting trees that failed during the 2024 planting season.

Earthtree further alleged that impersonators posing as its officials have been spreading misinformation online.

The firm urged the public to report unverified communications and possible fraud to the authorities.

The situation highlights growing scrutiny over carbon credit programmes in Kenya.

Stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and community engagement as environmental projects become more commercialised.