Karatina University had the honor of hosting Dr. David Kenfack, the African Coordinator for ForestGEO and a Staff Scientist at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, based at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Dr. Kenfack paid a courtesy visit to the University, where discussions centered on strengthening the existing partnership between Karatina University and ForestGEO.
ForestGEO is a globally recognized network of forest research sites and scientists dedicated to studying the function and diversity of tropical and temperate forests. With 78 forest research sites across multiple continents, the network monitors the growth and survival of approximately seven million trees, representing nearly 13,000 species. Additionally, ForestGEO conducts critical scientific research on carbon fluxes, climate change impacts on biodiversity, and forest ecosystem dynamics.
Karatina University has an active Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ForestGEO, fostering collaboration in research, capacity building, and knowledge exchange. The visit by Dr. Kenfack provided an opportunity to explore ways to further enhance this partnership.
Representing Karatina University during the discussions were the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic, Research, and Student Affairs, Prof. Franklin Wabwoba; the Dean, School of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, Dr. Flora Namu; and the School Coordinator for Research, Innovations, and Extension, Dr. Duncan Kimuyu, a beneficiary of the Smithsonian Postdoctoral Fellowship.
Dr. Kenfack was accompanied by Dr. Paul Musili, a Senior Research Scientist and Plant Systematics expert at the National Museums of Kenya.
From Left: Dr. Paul Musili, Dr. David Kenfack, DVC ARSA Prof. Franklin Wabwoba, Dr. Flora Namu, Dr. Duncan Kimuyu during the visit at the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Office.