NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- The United Nations said it will support Kenya in its appeal for funds to restore the Mau Forest Complex, an area critical to its development.

"The Mau Complex is of critical importance for sustaining current and future ecological, social and economic development in Kenya," U.N. Environment Program Executive Director Achim Steiner said Wednesday.

Kenya's appeal for $81 million for the restoration effort comes at a time of drought throughout the country, causing electricity and water rationing.

The Mau closed canopy ecosystem covers approximately 988 acres.

The forest has lost approximately 264 acres of its canopy in the last 20 years because of various unfavorable uses of the land, UNEP said.

"The rehabilitation of the ecosystem will require substantial resources and political goodwill. UNEP is privileged to work in partnership with the government of Kenya towards the implementation of this vital project," said Steiner.