Regeneration of tree species is one of the key processes for the sustainability of the last remnant rain forests in Eastern Africa, which underlie high pressure since decades and are reduced to small areas. However, they are important for the local and regional climatic conditions and for the preservation of biodiversity.

We concentrate in an individual based approach on the long term effects of abiotic and biotic processes which predict the fate of seedlings and mature trees. The centre of our investigation is the spatial heterogeneity and temporal variability of important factors like stand structure (including competition), canopy structure, light availability, water and nutrient supply from canopy to soil and of soil properties. These factors may complete and explain the studies of the other subprojects.

Building up a tree nursery with local initiatives like KEEP (Kakamega Environmental Education Programme) in the Northern part of the Kakamega forest will provide seedlings and saplings for the starting of on-farm-forestry projects which may help to preserve the rest of the forest. Only a close co-operation, as already established with KEEP, can help to get the socio-economic acceptance and discernment and will be embedded with the improvement of a nature trail for educating children and students, which was built up together with KEEP and KWS (Kenya Wildlife Service).

• Understanding geo-statistical processes
• The incremental growth of selected tree species: a contribution to measure growth rates of stands and as a contribution how trees react to the change of global climate.
• The regeneration of selected tree species: a contribution to the usage and to the preservation of valuable trees.
• The root-soil interface will be studied concerning the distribution of trees along the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties.