**7. Conclusion**

This study has demonstrated that inhabitants of western highlands of Kenya perceive most indigenous plant species as resourceful. For this reason, the inventory generated by this study ought to be printed and used to educate the younger generation about the varied types of plant resources and their uses. Such knowledge will empower local people to avoid unwanted destruction of resourceful resources out of ignorance. Indigenous institutions are evidently strong and effective in sustaining plant resources in the region. In order for the indigenous traditional knowledge to be better appreciated by the youth, the curriculum should be revised to integrate TEK. The possibility of being examined on indigenous plant resources will motivate the youth to be keen and even plant some of the species during agriculture lessons to better familiarize themselves with indigenous plant resources. Additionally, the study has shown that integrating new scientific knowledge with TEK can yield greater results in terms of sustainable development. A case in point is the *Jatropha curcus* (*amabono*) and *Aloe kedongensis* (*amakakha*) species that are now being conserved by some people in western highlands of Kenya for economic benefits. To this end, participatory research needs to be encouraged because it enables local people to benefit from their indigenous plant resources. Current trends of modernization of agriculture, land use and resource management systems have interfered with TEK through weakening the role of intergenerational experiences related to traditional SLM practices. The government has put a policy in place prohibiting cutting of trees. For this reason, someone needs authorization from the government prior to cutting down his/her trees. According to the permit, two trees should be planted to replace the one that is cut down. Although the policy is good, the government does not provide free seedlings to replenish the trees that are cut down. It is important for the government to provide necessary support in terms of seedlings to encourage sustainable utilization of plant resources. If seedlings are provided free of charge, many people will plant indigenous plant resources for use by future generations. Otherwise, there are many cases whereby the policy that requires replenishing of cut trees is not implemented due to lack of resources. Availability of seedlings could lead to a greener environment and conservation of indigenous plant resources in people's homes for future use. This practice will reduce the current pressure on forests to provide all required indigenous plant species. Government of Kenya also needs to address legal issues related to use of indigenous plant resources. As mentioned earlier, the government needs to enforce laws that protect indigenous plant species in western highlands of Kenya to prevent overexploitation of indigenous plant resources for economic gains at the expense of conservation.
