KEFRI Seeds Price List in Kenya (2026): Full Catalogue, Prices & How to Buy

By the end of this section you will have learnt

1.)What Is KEFRI and the Kenya Forestry Seed Centre

2.)KEFRI Seeds Price List in Kenya (2026 Updated)

3.)Most Searched KEFRI Tree Seeds

 4.)KEFRI Seed Prices for Export (USD Rates Explained)

5.)KEFRI Seed Collection Periods (Best Time to Order)

6.)How to Buy Seeds from KEFRI Seed Centre

7.)KEFRI Seeds vs Private Tree Seed Suppliers in Kenya****

8.)Tree Planting Procedure By KEFRI

9.)KEFRI Locations and Regional Centers

10.)KEFRI seed price List

11.)KEFRI contacts

12.)KEFRI’s Goals

13.) Key Functions of KEFRI

14.) KEFRI’s Management Structure

15.) KEFRI Tenders and Procurement

16.) KEFRI’s key partners

17.)FAQs About KEFRI Seeds in Kenya

What Is KEFRI and the Kenya Forestry Seed Centre

Image of Sesbania Sesban

The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) is a national public research institution mandated to conduct forestry research, support sustainable forest management, and guide tree-based development in Kenya.

established in the year 1986 with a mission to advance the sustainable management, conservation, and utilization of Kenya's forest resources.

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Image of a section of KEFRI managed forests in kenya

KEFRI operates under the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, focusing on innovative research, development, and outreach programs that support both Kenya’s forestry sector and broader environmental goals.

Under KEFRI operates the Kenya Forestry Seed Centre (KFSC), established to supply certified, high-quality tree seeds for reforestation, agroforestry, conservation, and commercial forestry.

Save Indigenous Tree Seeds Before They Are Lost Forever

 Support the Seed Recovery Program

Kei Apple Seeds 30Grams

KES 100.00

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Save Indigenous Tree Seeds Before They Are Lost Forever

 Support the Seed Recovery Program

Image of Kigelia africana also known as sausage tree by Thompson safaris

The Seed Centre collects seeds from selected seed stands across different ecological zones, conducts quality testing for germination and purity, and provides planting guidance to buyers, ensuring reliable and region-appropriate tree establishment across Kenya.

Need KEFRI Tree Seeds but You’re Far from Nairobi?

We help farmers, schools, NGOs, and tree growers source KEFRI-certified seeds and deliver them to your location—at a small facilitation fee.

👉 Request KEFRI Seeds Click Here >>> (Fast Response)

Image of Senna spectabilis is a plant species of the legume family native to South and Central America.

KEFRI Seeds Price List in Kenya (2026 Updated)

Mexican Cypress Seeds 30 grams

KES 100.00

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Demand peaks during national planting seasons, and buyers are encouraged to plan early to secure availability, as some high-value or seasonal seeds can sell out quickly.

KEFRI seeds are among the most widely bought tree seeds in Kenya, trusted by farmers, nurseries, NGOs, and county governments for quality and reliability. Some of the most purchased seeds include Eucalyptus species (for timber, poles, and fuelwood), Grevillea robusta (for shade and timber), Melia volkensii (for drought-tolerant wood), and Indigenous hardwoods like African mahogany and Prunus africana. Prices are typically listed per kilogram, with common species priced affordably for commercial and smallholder use.

 Don’t Travel—Let Us Source KEFRI Seeds for You

Tell us the species, quantity, and location. We’ll handle the rest.

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Most Searched KEFRI Tree Seeds

Save Indigenous Tree Seeds Before They Are Lost Forever

 Support the Seed Recovery Program

Eucalyptus seeds rank at the top due to their fast growth, multiple uses (timber, poles, fuelwood), and adaptability. Grevillea robusta seeds are commonly sought for shade trees and timber, while Melia volkensii seeds are popular in dryland forestry because of drought tolerance. Indigenous hardwood seeds like Prunus africana and African mahogany also show strong search demand, driven by conservation and high-value timber markets.

KEFRI Seed Prices for Export (USD Rates Explained)

KEFRI offers select tree seeds for export with prices quoted in USD per kilogram, reflecting global demand and higher processing costs. Export pricing typically applies to high-value indigenous species and large orders for reforestation or commercial forestry projects. Buyers must consider shipping, phytosanitary certification, and export regulations. Understanding USD pricing helps international buyers budget accurately and compare costs with local suppliers.

KEFRI Seed Collection Periods (Best Time to Order)

Planning purchases around collection periods ensures higher germination rates, better seed quality, and timely delivery for planting seasons across different ecological zones in Kenya.

Some seeds are available year-round from cold storage, while others—especially indigenous and recalcitrant species—can only be collected during specific months. Ordering early is critical, as KEFRI often requires advance notice (up to one month) for seasonal seeds.

How to Buy Seeds from KEFRI Seed Centre

KEFRI Seed Sourcing & Delivery Assistance (Nationwide)

Buying seeds directly from KEFRI Seed Centres can be difficult for farmers, schools, NGOs, and tree-planting projects located far from Nairobi or other KEFRI stations. Many buyers struggle with identifying the right species, confirming availability, understanding seasonal collection periods, and arranging transport.

BeyondForest offers a seed sourcing and facilitation service to help you access KEFRI-certified tree seeds remotely—without the need to travel.

What We Help You With

• Identifying the right tree species for your location and purpose

• Confirming seed availability, prices, and collection periods

• Placing orders and purchasing seeds on your behalf

• Coordinating pickup, packaging, and delivery to your location

• Advising on seed handling and planting readiness

We are not KEFRI agents or resellers. We act as an independent facilitator to save you time, travel costs, and costly mistakes.

Who This Service Is For

• Farmers and private tree growers

• NGOs and donor-funded tree planting projects

• Schools and institutions

• County governments and community groups

• Nurseries sourcing certified parent seed

Service Fee

A transparent facilitation fee applies depending on order size, distance, and complexity. All KEFRI seed costs are shared openly with clients before purchase.

KEFRI Tree Planting Procedure

Planning a tree planting project?

Avoid wrong species, missed seasons, and unnecessary travel.

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We’ll source the right KEFRI seeds for you.

step 1.)

Weed Clearing

Prepare planting site by clearing the weeds

Image of a markhamia lutea tree also known as the Nile tulip

2.)Planting Objective

Understand the planting objective.whether for Timber,Fuelwood,Rehabilitation,Urban Forestry or boundary planting

Image of Araucaria cunninghamii seedlings by Mumbi Liz

3.)Right Species at the correct site

Image of Syzygium guineense an evergreen leafy forest tree found in many parts of Africa

Plant the right species at the correct site as advised by technical experts by using the jaza miti app

4.)Seedling Handling

Handle the seedling carefully to the planting site to ensure roots and stems are intact

Image of a Hibiscus Tree whose Scientific name is Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

5.)Determine spacing

Timber Spacing 2.5 m by 2.5 m for Cypress and Pines

Image of Senna siamea, also known as Siamese cassia often used as shade tree in cocoa, coffee and tea plantations.

6.)Dig Holes

Dig holes double the size of potting tube in terms of depth and width .This ensures tree planted leave space at the bottom and then plant tree at the level root collar .Do not bury the tree plant it

Image of Terminalia mentalis some call it Umbrella tree though not

7.)Planting and Recording on Jazamiti app

Image of Australian flame by Pwani farms

Put the seedling at the middle of planting at an upright position where applicable support the seedling

Put quarter of top soil back in the planting hole then place the seedling and cover it with soil ,then firm up the seedling

Water the seedling

Report on species and number of trees planted in Jazamiti app

Image of a Kei apple fruit

KEFRI seedling price list

Image of a candle nut tree also known as Aleurites Moluccana the state tree of Hawai'i, traditionally a source of dye

Kei Apple	10Ksh
Warbugia ugandensis	50Khs
Acacia xanthopholea	30Ksh
Acokanthera schimperi	50Ksh
Acrocarpus fraxinifolia	10Ksh
Araucaria cannighamii	50Ksh
Australian flame	50Ksh
Avocados	50Ksh
Bambusa Dentrocalamus	200Ksh
Bambusa Striata	150Ksh
Bambusa Vulgaris	150Ksh
Brachyleana huillensis	50Ksh
Cupressus Lusitanica	10Ksh
Candle Nut	50Ksh
Caesalpinia spinosa	10Ksh
Calistemon citrinus	10Ksh
Calistemon lanceolatus	10Ksh
Calondendrum capense	50Ksh
Casuarina equisetifolia	10Ksh
Casuarina jughuniana	10Ksh
Combretum schumanii	10Ksh
Cordia abyssinica	10Ksh
Cordia Africana	50Ksh
Croton macrostachyus	10Ksh
Croton Megalocarpus	30Ksh
Dovyalis caffra	10Ksh
Elacondendron buchananii	50Ksh
Eucalyptus globulus	10Ksh
Eucalyptus Grandis	10Ksh
Eucalyptus maculata	10Ksh
Eucalyptus saligna	10Ksh
Gmelina arborea	10Ksh
Gravillea Robusta	10Ksh
Hibiscus	10Ksh
Juniperus Procera	30Ksh
Kigelia Africana	50Ksh
Markhamia Lutea	30Ksh
Melia Azedarach	10Ksh
Nandi Flame	50Ksh
Olea Africana	10Ksh
Passion Fruit	10Ksh
Pinus Patula	10Ksh
Podocarpus gracillior	50Ksh
Polysias Kikuyensis	10Ksh
Premna maxima	10Ksh
Prunus Africana	10Ksh
Royal Palm	50Ksh
Schinus Molle	30Ksh
Strychnos henningsii	50Ksh
Syzygium guineense	100Ksh
Teclea nobilis	50Ksh
Thika Palm	50Ksh
Thuya orintiaris	50Ksh
Tree tomato	10Ksh
Trichilia emetica	50Ksh
Vitex keniensis	50Ksh
Warbugia ugandensis	50Ksh
Yushania Albina	50Ksh
Acacia melifera	20Ksh
Acacia senegal	10Ksh
Aloe vera spp	100Ksh
Azadirachta indica	20Ksh
Banalite aegyptica	20Ksh
Carica papaya	10Ksh
Cordia sinensis	10Ksh
Delonix regia	10Ksh
Dobera glabra	20Ksh
Luecaena leucocephala	50Ksh
Melia volkensii	20Ksh
Moringa oloifera	20Ksh
Salvadora persica	20Ksh
Senna siamea	20Ksh
Syzygium cuminii	20Ksh
Terminalia mentalis	20Ksh
Afzuelia quansensis	20Ksh
Brachystegia speciformis	20Ksh
Eucalyptus Camaldulensis	10Ksh
Eucalyptus europhyla	10Ksh
Ficus sycomorus	20Ksh
Hymenia verucosa	20Ksh
Lecanoides fraxinifolius	20Ksh
Majidea zanguebarica	20Ksh
Mimusops fruiticosa	20Ksh
Pleustrolyia africana	20Ksh
Polysphaeria multiflora	20Ksh
Terminalia cattapa	20Ksh
Terminalia spinosa	20Ksh
Bischovia javonica	10Ksh
Jacaranda mimosifolia	20Ksh
Senna spectabillis	10Ksh
Sesbania Sesban	10Ksh

KEFRI Locations and Regional Centers

Image of KEFRI National forest product research programme centre

KEFRI operates a network of research centers and regional offices across Kenya. These centers facilitate forestry research, community outreach, and conservation initiatives, each tailored to address the specific environmental conditions of the region.

Each of these centers conducts region-specific research, providing technologies and strategies for forestry and conservation that align with the unique ecological conditions of their respective areas. .

This decentralized approach helps KEFRI effectively reach diverse communities, allowing it to tackle region-specific challenges such as drought in drylands or soil erosion in highlands

KEFRI Headquarters

KEFRI Headquarters is located in Muguga Kiambu county and the function is for administration, major research programs, partnerships, and seed production 23 km north-west of Nairobi, off Nairobi - Nakuru highway

KEFRI Regional Research Centers

1. Coast Eco-Region Research Centre (CERC) - Based in Gede, Kilifi County

   • Focuses on coastal forests, mangrove ecosystems, and agroforestry suitable for coastal climates.

2. Central Highlands Eco-Region Research Centre (CHERC) - Based in Karura, Nairobi

   • Addresses highland forests, community forestry, and conservation in central Kenya.

3. Drylands Eco-Region Research Centre (DERC) - Based in Kibwezi, Makueni County

   • Focuses on dryland afforestation, desertification control, and water-efficient agriculture for arid and semi-arid areas.

4. Lake Victoria Basin Eco-Region Research Centre (LVBRC) - Based in Maseno, Kisumu County

   • Conducts research on lake basin ecosystems, agroforestry, and the conservation of indigenous species.

5. North Rift Eco-Region Research Centre (NRERC) - Based in Londiani, Kericho County

   • Covers research in forested highlands and rift valley ecosystems.

6. Western Eco-Region Research Centre (WERC) - Based in Kakamega, Kakamega County

   • Works on biodiversity conservation, particularly in indigenous forests like Kakamega Forest.

KEFRI Contacts

KEFRI

20412-00200 ,Nairobi, Kenya.

+254 722 157 414

+254 (0) 724 259781/2

complaintsdesk@kefri.org

KEFRI seed price List

Image of Dobera glabra an evergreen shrub native to Somalia, Djibouti, and Ethiopia.

Diospyros cornii	1500Ksh
Diospyros mespiliformis	2000Ksh
Diospyros scabra	1500Ksh
Dobera glabra	1000Ksh
Dodonea viscosa	8000Ksh
Dombeya torrida	5000Ksh
Dovyalis abyssinica	4000Ksh
Dovyalis caffra	2000Ksh
Drypetes gerradii	1500Ksh
Ehretia cymosa	3500Ksh
Entada abyssinica	800Ksh
Erythrina burttii	3000Ksh
Erythrophloeum guineese	1500Ksh
Eucalyptus camaldulensis)	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus ficifolia	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus globulus	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus grandis	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus maculata	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus paniculata	4000Ksh
Eucalyptus regnans	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus saligna	5000Ksh
Eucalyptus urophylla	4000Ksh
Faidhebia albida	3500Ksh
Faurea saligna	4000Ksh
Flacourtia indica	2500Ksh
Fraxinus pennsylvanica	1000Ksh
Gardenia volkensii	1000Ksh
Gmelina arborea	2000Ksh
Grevillea robusta	5000Ksh
Grewia discolor	1000Ksh
Grewia villosa	1000Ksh
Gliricidia sepium	4000Ksh
Gyrocarpus americanus	1200Ksh
Hagenia abyssinica	2500Ksh
Hakea saligna	5000Ksh
Harungana madagascariensis	2000Ksh
Hymenaea verrucosa	1000Ksh
Hyphaene compressa	500Ksh
Hyphaene coriacea	500Ksh
Jacaranda mimosifolia	4000Ksh
Jatropha curcas	1000Ksh
Juniperus procera	2000Ksh
Khaya anthotheca	1500Ksh
Kigelia africana	2000Ksh
Lannea elata	1500Ksh
Lawsonia inermis	1500Ksh
Leucaena diversifolia	2000Ksh
Leucaena leucocephala	1500Ksh
Leucaena pallida	2000Ksh
Leucaena trichandra	2500Ksh
Allophylus abyssinicus	1200Ksh
Araucaria angustifolia	1500Ksh
Araucaria cunninghamii	2000Ksh
Atriplex numularia	600Ksh
Azanza garckeana	1500Ksh
Balanites aegyptiaca	1000Ksh
Balanites orbicularis	1000Ksh
Balanites wilsoniana	600Ksh
Berchemia discolor	2000Ksh
Acokanthera schimperi	1500Ksh
Acrocarpus fraxinifolius	2500Ksh
Adansonia digitata	1000Ksh
Adenanthera pavonina	3500Ksh
Afzelia quanzensis	2000Ksh
Albizia coriaria	3000Ksh
Albizia grandibracteata	3500Ksh
Albizia gummifera	3500Ksh
Albizia lebbeck	3000Ksh
Albizia lophantha	2000Ksh
Albizia procera	2000Ksh
Acacia kirkii	1500Ksh
Acacia lahai	1000Ksh
Acacia mangium	4000Ksh
Acacia mearnsii	1000Ksh
Acacia melanoxolyn	1000Ksh
Acacia mellifera	2000Ksh
Acacia nilotica	1000Ksh
Acacia nubica	800Ksh
Acacia polyacantha	2000Ksh
Acacia reficiens	800Ksh
Acacia Senegal	2000Ksh
Acacia seyal	2000Ksh
Acacia sieberiana	1500Ksh
Acacia tortilis	2000Ksh
Acacia xanthopholea	3500Ksh
Acacia zanzibarica	800Ksh
Ziziphus mauritiana	1000Ksh
Ziziphus mucronata	1000Ksh
Acacia abyssinica	1200Ksh
Acacia brevispica	1000Ksh
Acacia drepanolobium	1500Ksh
Acacia elatior	2000Ksh
Acacia gerrardii	1500Ksh
Acacia horrida	1000Ksh
Tecoma stans	5000Ksh
Tectona grandis	1000Ksh
Terminali mentalis	1200Ksh
Terminalia brownii (Extracted)	3000Ksh
Terminalia brownii (fruits)	800Ksh
Terminalia prunoides	800Ksh
Terminalia spinosa	1500Ksh
Thevetia peruviana	800Ksh
Tipuana tipu	1000Ksh
Tristinia conferta	3500Ksh
Vangueria madagascariensis	2500Ksh
Vitex keniensis	1500Ksh
Vitex payos	1500Ksh
Ximenia americana	1000Ksh
Zanthoxylum gilletii	1200Ksh
Ziziphus abyssinica	1000Ksh
Senna spectabilis	1500Ksh
Sesbania grandiflora	1500Ksh
Sesbania sesban	1500Ksh
Spathodea campanulata	3500Ksh
Strychnos henningsii	2000Ksh
Syncarpia laurifolia	3000Ksh
Tamarindus indica	2000Ksh
Teclea nobilis	3000Ksh
Paramacrolobium coeruleum	1000Ksh
Parkinsonia aculeata	1000Ksh
Phoenix reclinata	1000Ksh
Piliostigma thonningii	800Ksh
Pinus caribaea	5000Ksh
Pinus patula	7000Ksh
Pinus radiata	5000Ksh
Pithecellobium dulce	1000Ksh
Podocarpus falcatus	1500Ksh
Polyscias fulva	4000Ksh
Polyscias kikuyuensis	4000Ksh
Premna maxima	3500Ksh
Pyracantha angustifolia	4000Ksh
Schinus molle	1500Ksh
Sclerocarya birrea	600Ksh
Senna siamea	2000Ksh
Maesopsis eminii	1000Ksh
Markhamia lutea	2000Ksh
Melia azedarach	2500Ksh
Melia Volkensii	6000Ksh
Melia Volkensii nuts	800Ksh
Milicia excelsa	5000Ksh
Milletia dura	2000Ksh
Mimusops kummel	1000Ksh
Moringa oleifera	1500Ksh
Moringa stenopetala	3000Ksh
Myrianthus holstii	4000Ksh
Mystroxylon aethiopicum	1500Ksh
Newtonia buchananii	3500Ksh
Newtonia hildebrandtii	3500Ksh
Newtonia paucijuga	1000Ksh
Ocotea usambarensis	5000Ksh
Olea capensis ssp .hochstetteri	3000Ksh
Olea capensis ssp .welwitchii	3500Ksh
Olea europaea ssp. africana	3000Ksh
Bischovia javonica	2500Ksh
Brachychiton acerifolium	3000Ksh
Brachylaena huillensis	5000Ksh
Brachystegia speciformis	1000Ksh
Caesalpinia volkensii	3500Ksh
Calliandra calothyrsus	3000Ksh
Dichostachys cinerea	2000Ksh
Diospyros abyssinica	1500Ksh
Cupressus lusitanica	5000Ksh
Cupressus pyramidalis	5000Ksh
Dalbergia melanoxylon	1000Ksh
Delonix elata	4000Ksh
Delonix regia	1000Ksh
Dialium orientale	1500Ksh
Dialium orientale	1500Ksh
Callistemon citrinus	4000Ksh
Callistemon lanceolatus	4000Ksh
Callistemon viminalis	4000Ksh
Callitris robusta	1000Ksh
Calodendrum capense	1500Ksh
Casearia battiscombe	3500Ksh
Casuarina equisetifolia	5000Ksh
Casuarina jughuniana	5000Ksh
Celtis africana	3500Ksh
Chorisia speciosa	2000Ksh
Chorisia ventricosa	2000Ksh
Combretum schumannii	800Ksh
Combretum zeyheri	800Ksh
Commiphora baluensis	4000Ksh
Conocorpus lancifolius	1000Ksh
Cordeuxia edulis	3000Ksh
Cordia africana	2000Ksh
Cordia monoica	2500Ksh
Cordia sinensis	2000Ksh
Craibia brownii	1000Ksh
Croton macrostachyus	2000Ksh
Cryptomeria japonica	2000Ksh
Croton megalocarpus	1000Ksh

KEFRI’s Mission, Vision, and Objectives

KEFRI’s mission is to conduct research, innovate, and provide information and technology to support sustainable forestry and environmental management. Its vision is to be a world-class center of excellence in forestry and allied natural resources research, contributing to environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and national development.

KEFRI's core objectives include:

• Conducting research in forestry, agroforestry, and related natural resources.

• Developing and disseminating technologies to promote sustainable forest management.

• Contributing to forest policy formulation through research-based evidence.

• Enhancing Kenya’s forest cover and promoting biodiversity conservation.

• Supporting climate adaptation and mitigation through tree planting and agroforestry.

Key Functions of KEFRI

KEFRI’s work spans various programs and activities, with each function tailored to address specific challenges in the forestry and environmental sectors

Forestry Research

KEFRI conducts applied and adaptive research to solve challenges related to sustainable forest management. Research areas include afforestation, reforestation, forest ecology, conservation, biodiversity, and forest-based livelihoods.

Agroforestry

Recognizing the importance of integrating trees into farming systems, KEFRI promotes agroforestry practices that improve soil quality, reduce erosion, and increase farm productivity. Agroforestry helps smallholder farmers create sustainable land-use systems.

Forest Conservation

Through research and community engagement, KEFRI develops strategies for conserving natural forests and endangered species. Conservation efforts are directed at promoting ecosystem restoration, reforestation, and natural resource management.

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

KEFRI contributes to climate action by promoting practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation, enhance carbon sequestration, and adapt forest ecosystems to climate impacts.

Capacity Building and Community Outreach

KEFRI provides training for forest management professionals, community groups, and extension officers, offering them tools and knowledge to implement sustainable forestry practices. The organization is involved in public awareness initiatives, promoting tree planting, forest conservation, and agroforestry practices.

Tree Seed Production and Distribution

KEFRI’s certified tree seed center produces high-quality seeds of both indigenous and exotic species. By ensuring the availability of quality planting material, KEFRI supports reforestation efforts, biodiversity conservation, and Kenya’s ambitious reforestation goals.

3. KEFRI’s Management Structure

KEFRI is governed by a Board of Directors appointed by the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry. The board provides policy direction, ensures resource allocation aligns with the institute's objectives, and oversees strategic decision-making. The Director of KEFRI is the head of the institution, managing the institute’s day-to-day operations and ensuring the implementation of research projects, programs, and outreach activities.

KEFRI’s management structure includes several directorates, each focusing on a specific aspect of the organization’s mandate:

• Research and Development: This department conducts research, develops technologies, and ensures that new innovations are in line with Kenya’s environmental and developmental goals.

• Partnerships and Business Development: KEFRI collaborates with international organizations, government bodies, NGOs, and communities to advance sustainable forestry practices and promote technology transfer.

• Finance and Administration: This department manages KEFRI’s financial resources, procurement, and human resources, ensuring compliance with government regulations and standards.

• Monitoring and Evaluation: To measure the effectiveness of KEFRI’s projects, this department tracks progress, assesses impacts, and identifies areas for improvement.

KEFRI Tenders and Procurement

As a public institution, KEFRI follows Kenya’s Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, ensuring transparency and fairness in procurement and tendering processes. KEFRI regularly issues tenders for services, supplies, and project-specific requirements, including research equipment, office supplies, transportation services, infrastructure development, and more.

Types of KEFRI Tenders

• Supply Tenders: KEFRI often issues tenders for the supply of laboratory equipment, seeds, chemicals, IT equipment, and office supplies.

• Service Tenders: These include services such as transportation, maintenance, consulting, training, and project-specific tasks.

• Construction Tenders: These are for infrastructure-related projects, including the development of research facilities, conservation infrastructure, and staff housing.

• Research Project Tenders: KEFRI collaborates with local and international partners on joint research projects, often requiring specific supplies or services.

KEFRI publishes tender notices in national newspapers and on its official website. Suppliers and contractors can download tender documents, submit proposals, and participate in the transparent bidding process. Successful bidders are selected based on the quality of service, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with KEFRI’s requirements.

5. KEFRI Suppliers and Partnerships

KEFRI’s suppliers play a crucial role in supporting its research and outreach programs. Suppliers are required to register with KEFRI and meet quality standards, ensuring they can provide reliable products and services that support the institute’s objectives. KEFRI's supplier categories include:

• Equipment and Laboratory Supplies: Suppliers provide essential research equipment, laboratory chemicals, and other scientific materials used in forestry research.

• Seed Suppliers: These suppliers contribute to KEFRI’s mandate by providing certified seeds for reforestation and biodiversity conservation programs.

• Technical Services: These include services for equipment maintenance, transportation, IT, training, and other areas supporting KEFRI’s operations.

• Construction and Civil Works: Contractors involved in building and maintaining KEFRI’s infrastructure, research centers, and facilities.

KEFRI’s key partners

KEFRI also partners with international organizations, universities, NGOs, and governmental bodies to promote forestry research, conservation, and climate change initiatives.

1. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)

2. The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF)

3. Kenya Forest Service (KFS)

4. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

5. Local universities and research institutes

   
   

7. KEFRI’s Impact on Forestry and Environmental Conservation

KEFRI has significantly contributed to Kenya’s environmental conservation efforts. Some of its notable impacts include:

• Increased Forest Cover: KEFRI has supported Kenya’s goal of increasing forest cover by providing quality tree seedlings, research-based forestry management practices, and reforestation initiatives.

• Climate Resilience and Adaptation: Through research on resilient tree species, agroforestry practices, and conservation efforts, KEFRI has helped communities adapt to climate change.

• Community Empowerment: KEFRI’s training programs have equipped local communities with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable land management practices, promoting self-sufficiency and enhancing livelihoods.

• Biodiversity Conservation: By preserving and restoring indigenous species, KEFRI has contributed to the conservation of Kenya's unique biodiversity.

FAQs About KEFRI Seeds in Kenya

What does KEFRI do?

KEFRI (Kenya Forestry Research Institute) is a government research institution responsible for forestry research, conservation, and sustainable forest management in Kenya. Through its Kenya Forestry Seed Centre (KFSC), KEFRI supplies certified, high-quality tree seeds for reforestation, agroforestry, conservation, and commercial forestry projects.

Does KEFRI sell seeds or seedlings?

KEFRI primarily sells tree seeds, not seedlings. Seedlings are usually raised by private nurseries, NGOs, county governments, or individual farmers using KEFRI-certified seeds. However, KEFRI provides guidance on seed handling, pretreatment, and nursery establishment.

How much do KEFRI seeds cost in Kenya?

KEFRI seed prices vary by species and are typically quoted per kilogram. Prices depend on factors such as seed availability, demand, and whether the seed is indigenous or exotic. Some common species cost a few hundred shillings per kilogram, while rare or high-value indigenous species can cost several thousand shillings per kilogram.

Why are KEFRI seed prices quoted per kilogram?

Tree seeds differ significantly in size and weight. Quoting prices per kilogram allows buyers to plan large-scale planting projects accurately. Some species have thousands of seeds per kilogram, while others have far fewer, so buyers should always check germination rates and recommended planting densities.

Are KEFRI seeds certified?

Yes. KEFRI seeds are certified and quality-tested under strict standards. Seed quality testing includes germination rate, moisture content, and purity, and follows International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) guidelines. KEFRI is also registered with KEPHIS as a licensed seed merchant.

Can individuals buy seeds directly from KEFRI?

Yes. Individuals, farmers, NGOs, schools, county governments, and private companies can all purchase seeds directly from KEFRI Seed Centres. Availability may vary depending on season and species.

Where can I buy KEFRI seeds in Kenya?

KEFRI seeds are sold through official KEFRI Seed Centres, including the main centre at Muguga near Nairobi. Orders can be made by visiting the seed centre, calling, or emailing KEFRI directly. Some seeds must be ordered in advance due to limited availability.

Why are some KEFRI seeds supplied “on demand only”?

Some tree species produce recalcitrant or desiccation-sensitive seeds, meaning they cannot be stored for long periods. These seeds must be collected and supplied within a specific season, so buyers are required to place orders at least one month before the expected collection period.

Does KEFRI sell seeds for export?

Yes. KEFRI supplies seeds for export and provides export prices in USD. Export orders are commonly made by NGOs, international research institutions, and large-scale forestry or conservation projects, subject to phytosanitary and export regulations.

How do I know which KEFRI tree seeds are best for my area?

Choosing the right tree species depends on altitude, rainfall, soil type, and intended use (timber, fodder, fruit, conservation, or fuelwood). KEFRI provides planting zone recommendations, and many buyers also consult forestry experts or agroforestry specialists before purchasing seeds.

Are KEFRI seeds cheaper than private seed suppliers?

KEFRI seeds are often competitively priced and trusted for quality, but private suppliers may offer smaller quantities, seedlings, or faster access. Many farmers use KEFRI seeds for quality assurance and private nurseries for convenience.

How long do KEFRI seeds last before planting?

Seed viability varies by species. Some seeds remain viable for years when properly stored, while others must be planted within weeks or months. KEFRI provides seed handling and storage instructions with each purchase to maximize germination success.

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