Langata Extension – August 2025

The Extended Langata Bund ite is a powerful example of how degraded landscapes in Africa can be brought back to life. Over the course of nearly two months (September-October 2024), all bunds were dug, seeded, and covered. This not only restored vegetation in a severely degraded area, but also provided temporary income for over 100 local community members who contributed to the work. In total, around 100 people from the Kuku Group Ranch benefited from the intervention, showing how restoration efforts can strengthen entire communities. Moreover, the community members used the grass seeds from the seed bank close by! 

The ecological impact is already becoming visible. Where heavy rainfall used to cause persistent flooding, the bunds have helped slow and retain water. As the dry season begins, the difference between the restored area and its surroundings is clear. Vegetation is thriving, and wildlife is returning. Giraffes, zebras, lions, gazelles, and elephants have all been spotted in the area.

The local grazing committee continues to play a key role in protecting the site and raising awareness. The grazing committee members engage herders near the sites and explain the importance of protecting the site until it is well restored and to utilise the restored sites sustainably. Their commitment helps ensure the long-term success of the project. What has happened in Extended Langata truly demonstrates the power of community-led restoration. Why? The grazing committee members from this site are always present when we are visiting the sites and they use their motorbikes to patrol the area. In the field, they passionately carry out informal dialogues with herders to prevent grazing. Regreening is done together!

Figure 1: Langata bund site after light showers in April this year

Figure 2 Bunds digging at the Langata bund site before the rains in October, 2024.