Alex Lemarkoko is the new Chief Conservator of Forests following his appointment by the Board of Kenya Forest Service.
In a statement on Monday August 7, KFS confirmed his appointment effective August after serving on acting capacity.
Lemarkoko was appointed in an acting capacity as the Chief Conservator of Forests in February 2023.
“Mr Alex Lemarkoko has a wealth of experience since joining the former Forest Department in 1991. He has served in various capacities, starting as an Assistant District Forest Officer and later he was promoted to District Forest Officer and served in about ten Counties,” read the statement.
Moreover, the new Chief Conservator of Forests is a graduate of the National Defence College of Kenya.
“Mr Lemarkoko has also undertaken several short courses and he has a wealth of experience representing KFS in various local and international Forestry Forums,” further read the statement.
Also Read: Court Stops Implementation of President Ruto’s Directive on Logging
Other Affiliations
In addition, Lemarkoko is also a member of the Forestry Society of Kenya.
Further, he is also a focal point for Africa Cross border timber trade and Forest Management Forum.
The Kenya Forest Service is an agency of the Government of Kenya designated by the Forest Act of 2005 as the replacement for the old Forest Department.
Functions of the Chief Forest Conservator
To provide a strategic leadership on day to-day Operations and Management of Kenya Forest Service.
Providing leadership, command, control, and superintendence of the uniformed and disciplined cadre of the Service.
Leading and coordinating conservation, management, and development of forest resources in all public, private and community lands.
Overseeing and participate in developing, reviewing, and implementing Kenya Forest Service policies, strategies and programmes.
As secretary and member to Board, oversees and ensures the preparation and implementation of the Board decisions.
Preparing and implementing the Board’s work plans, budgets and performance contracts.
Also Read: Govt Responds After Uproar Over Viral Logging Video
Formulating and compliance to Policies
Responsible for formulation implementation and achievement of the Service’ Mandate, Mission, Vision, and Strategic goals.
Participate in the review and formulation of Forest legislation, Policy, and Regulations.
Provide policy direction on Forest Management Plans and licensing for forest products.
Ensure that the Service complies with the Constitution, Statutory legislations, and regulations in Governing KFS.
Lastly, ensures compliance with forestry related international agreements, protocols, treaties, and conventions that impact on forestry.
