The second edition of the Mau Conservation Marathon was officially launched under the Mau Forest Complex Integrated Conservation and Livelihood Improvement Programme (MFC-ICLIP), in an event presided over by Festus Ng'eno, Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change. Held at a Nakuru hotel, the launch brought together key stakeholders in conservation, research, and policy.
The event was coordinated and emceed by Betty, a member of the Egerton University Alumni Association, whose role underscored the growing influence of alumni networks in national development initiatives.
Egerton University featured prominently, positioning itself as a critical knowledge partner in the national programme. Representing the Vice-Chancellor Isaac Kibwage, Principal Nakuru City Campus College Prof. George Ogendi delivered a message emphasizing the urgency of environmental restoration.
Prof Ogendi noted that safeguarding ecosystems such as the Mau Forest Complex is no longer optional but a national imperative.
Also present was Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization and a key member of the MFC-ICLIP committee. Drawing from her expertise in limnology and biological sciences, she highlighted the importance of science-driven approaches in ecosystem restoration. Prof. Julius Kipkemboi, Director of Income Generating Units, reinforced the university’s commitment through applied biological science and sustainable resource initiatives.
The MFC-ICLIP programme, a 10-year initiative launched by William Ruto in October 2025, seeks to restore the Mau Forest Complex while improving livelihoods of adjacent communities.
Egerton University has aligned its 2026 activities with this national agenda. Earlier efforts included the 11th Mau–Egerton Cross Country held in February, which promoted environmental awareness through sport.
The marathon launch on May 4 builds on this momentum, integrating athletics with conservation advocacy.
More than 20 students from the university participated in the launch activities alongside Athletics Kenya, reflecting strong youth engagement in environmental stewardship.
Beyond events, the university continues to implement restoration projects, including rehabilitation of the Njoro River source. It is also set to host an MFC-ICLIP summit at its Njoro campus, bringing together stakeholders to advance policy, research, and community-based conservation efforts.
The launch signals a sustained, multi-sector commitment to restoring one of Kenya’s most critical ecosystems.
By Musa Kurian, Communication Officer| Egerton University.
