Uasin Gishu County farmers have raised questions over the transparency of carbon credit contracts signed by locals.
Farmers have voiced concerns about the clarity and fairness of agreements they entered into, agreements they now fear may have long-term implications on their land rights.
The farmers recently signed contracts to allow Earthtree Company Ltd to utilise their land in a bid to mop up carbon credits in the agriculture-rich county.
Earthtree, an environmental restoration firm that has been working with communities to champion sustainable land use through initiatives like tree planting, agroforestry, and beekeeping.
The company maintains that its role is purely collaborative.
"We signed papers without fully understanding what they meant for our land," Hillary Kimutai from Moiben said. "We just want to be sure we haven't unknowingly given away our rights."
In response, Earthtree issued a detailed statement reassuring farmers that the company does not acquire agricultural land nor place ownership restrictions on landholders.
Instead, the firm said it promotes regenerative practices that aim to restore ecosystems and support livelihoods while preserving full land ownership for farmers.
"We are proud to partner with farmers and communities to bring positive change to landscapes and contribute to making catchments more resilient to climate change," said Janet Jeruto, the company's Engagement and Compliance Manager.
The initiative forms part of Kenya's broader ambition to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, and Earthtree has publicly committed to using only indigenous and productive tree species, explicitly distancing itself from any genetically modified (GMO) varieties.
Earthtree's nursery in Kenmosa Village, Eldoret, employs nearly 70 locals and, according to the company, can grow millions of trees to support reforestation efforts across the region.
Ruth Kemboi, Chairperson of the County Kenyan Farmers Association and a farmer, defended the firm's work, citing real benefits for the local community.
"A lot of local jobs have already been created. We appreciate the support and encouragement the project has given us," she said.
The senior consultant in community engagement lauded the company's beekeeping project, which has offered farmers an alternative source of income. "We already have honey bees in the area. Encouraging landowners to adopt beehives is a win-win."
Still, the rift over contract clarity suggests a deeper issue, one not unique to Uasin Gishu. Across Kenya, carbon credit initiatives are attracting increased scrutiny, with stakeholders urging better safeguards, clearer communication, and more inclusive engagement.
In a bid to address these concerns, Earthtree has opened its nursery offices for consultations and is offering assistance to farmers whose trees failed to thrive in the 2024 planting season.
The firm has also raised the alarm over reports of individuals impersonating its staff and spreading misinformation online, warning the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to authorities.
