NFPRP, has a national mandate to undertake forestry research in harvesting, handling, processing and value addition of both wood and non-wood forest products. The Programme develops forestry technologies on: bio-fuels mainly charcoal and briquettes; timber engineering on various species including bamboo; and non wood forest products such as indigenous fruits, gums, resins, and aloe. The Programme implements its research and development activities in two thematic areas; Forest Products Development and Technical Support Services.
NFPRP – Karura Centre is situated in Karura Forest 6 km from Nairobi next to the Kenya Forest Service Headquarters, off the Kiambu Road.
The Programme covers the whole country.
Efficient utilization of wood resources
Promotion of non-wood forest products through development of commercially viable products
Pest and disease management
Developed and promoted technologies for efficient timber sawing on-farm
Developed technologies for utilizing waste timber through lamination
Developed technologies for making bamboo beams for construction through lamination
Developed technologies for efficient charcoal production
Developed technologies on briquetting using different binders
Developed products from various indigenous fruits
Promoted efficient harvesting and handling of gums and resins
Disseminated various technologies and information on forest products through open and field days, agricultural shows, conferences and workshops, print and electronic media
Trained stakeholders on use of bamboo, making various products from aloe and indigenous fruit trees, and efficient and safe use of chain saw on-farm
Training in: tree seed; tree nursery management; and tree establishment, management and marketing
students on various forest technologies
Advisory services on forestry and allied natural resources
Student attachment and internship
Consultancy services in forestry and allied natural resources