The Mount Kenya Tree Nursery is located among scattered smallholdings some 2,000 metres above sea level on the western slopes of Mount Kenya, halfway between the small town of Naro Moru and the entrance to Mount Kenya National Park. It lies 115 miles north of Nairobi.

Mount Kenya Forests provide a vital livelihood for millions of people throughout Africa and are at severe risk of destruction, owing to the demands of a growing population. Only 3% of Kenya is covered in forest, of which much is found on the slopes of Mount Kenya.

As the second highest mountain in Africa, it is of major significance, not only for its outstanding natural beauty, but its biodiversity and importance as a water catchment area. This was recognised in 1949 when 175 sq. miles above 3,000 metres were designated a National Park, whilst 275 square miles of the lower slopes became a forest reserve. In 1997 the area was granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Mt. Kenya plays a critical role in water catchment for the country. Two of its major rivers, the Tana and Ewaso Nyiro rise on its slopes, which provide drinking water, hydro-electric power and water for farms and irrigation schemes across a huge part of Kenya.