Kitale: The process leading to formation of Saiwa Integrated Management Plan has reached a critical stage. This comes as technical working groups from Trans Nzoia and West Pokot Counties met in Kitale to iron out the final and finer details of the plan. Formulation of the plan is perceived to be crucial towards the conservation efforts of the wetland ecosystem.
According to Kenya News Agency, Trans Nzoia County Director for Physical Planning, Beatrice Wangila, stated that the plan will protect biodiversity, regulate land use, and involve communities in sustainable practices. “This plan is key as it will act as our roadmap to balance human activity with nature’s survival. Without it, the wetland risks degradation from farming, settlement, and pollution,” she reiterated.
Wangila emphasized that if major conservation objectives are achieved following the implementation of the plan, endangered species such as the Sitatunga antelope and grey crowned cranes will be protected for posterity. Caroline Muriuki from the National Environment Management Authority headquarters highlighted the wetland’s significance as a critical water catchment and biodiversity hotspot, warning that unchecked encroachment could lead to flooding, species loss, and reduced water quality downstream.
She called for continued collaboration between counties, national agencies, and local residents, noting that regular monitoring, restoration of degraded areas, and education campaigns are among the strategies the plan outlined. “By anchoring conservation in policy and practice, the Saiwa Integrated Management Plan is expected to secure the wetland’s future and strengthen resilience against climate change,” she said.
Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) regional representative Linda Achieng stressed that the plan aims at improving security of tenure and equitable access to land and natural resources, enhancing livelihoods, and promoting sustainable socio-economic development. She noted that FAO’s objective is to support conflict resolution mechanisms on land and natural resources, ensuring communities benefit from conservation.
