CER-K
The Centre for Ecosystem Restoration Kenya (CER-K) is dedicated to restoring thriving and resilient ecosystems in Kenya with the people of Kenya. They actively reverse degradation and repair ecosystems through action-oriented research and evidence-based restoration at their growing research and restoration hubs. They collaborate with small and large restoration projects, research organisations, funding bodies, institutions, and local communities, to achieve the highest biodiversity standards. They work in three main ecosystems, savannah, highlands and the coast, by researching, reconnecting with people, providing resources, and restoring. They offer training and education on environmental restoration and conservation to local communities, schools, and organisations. Their hubs ignite passion and curiosity for ecosystem restoration through demonstration sites and creative communications. The CER-K Highland Hub is located at the Brackenhurst Conference and Retreat Centre. It is one of the few remaining green spaces near Nairobi and Kenya’s only accredited botanic garden.
Some of CER-K work at Brackenhurst includes:
Forest restoration. The 27.5 hectares of Brackenhurst forest has undergone a remarkable transformation from a monoculture eucalyptus plantation into a vibrant habitat that sustains a rich diversity of birds and mammals. This work was started by Mark Nicholson in 2000 with Plants for Life. Notably, the colobus monkeys, a flagship species, have returned to the forests after an 80-year absence. There has been a significant increase in the number of bird species, now totalling 180. The upper and lower forests harbour has an impressive array of flora, including 353 indigenous trees, 47 indigenous shrubs, and 16 lianas. Among them, over 30 are rare and endangered.
Seed bank and nurseries. The CER-K nurseries and seed bank are a safe haven for conserving and propagating rare, endangered, and indigenous tree species. These vital resources support restoration efforts across Kenya by providing high-quality indigenous plant material to CER-K hubs and partners. A community seed collection network works alongside the seed bank and nurseries to ensure that the plant material used in restoration projects is of the highest quality.
Botanic Garden. Brackenhurst’s highland botanic garden has been a member of Botanic Garden Conservation International (BGCI) since 2006 and was accredited with Level 3 status by ArbNet in 2016. The Botanic Garden is home to over 100 species of East African flowers, providing a haven for crucial pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and small birds.
For anyone interested in getting involved in the innovative work of CER-K, a great place to start is by arranging a visit. Tours are offered from 9 am to 5 pm from Monday to Saturday and are available for up to 50 people. Three types of tours are available: standard, commercial and a tree planting package. More information is available here.
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Limuru-Banana Road, Limuru – Kiambu, Kenya
+254 736 424 242
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+254 748 199 552Email: bookings@brackenhurst.com
