Kenya Forestry Research Institute will promote the planting of Mukau tree in drylands across the Coast region. Kefri's Coast deputy director Linus Wekesa said the Mukau tree (Melia volkensii) can adapt to climate change in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands.

"We have been developing and promoting Mukau in the region as a high value dry land tree species for environmental conservation and for meeting wood biomass demands," said Wekesa.

He said that through Kefri's research and development initiatives, Mukau tree has been developed to suit dry lands. "Technology for faster propagation of the species, methodologies and approaches for its establishment and management has been advanced to enhance its potential in benefiting producers and greening the environment," he said.

The director said the farmers have been encouraged to grow the species in the Coast region. Wekesa said that the project has succeeded in Kibwezi, Kitui and Mbeere districts.

"Most farmers in these areas have integrated Mukau into their farming systems and there is a big difference in their lives now. We are optimistic that it will be successful in the Coast region too," said Wekesa.