Nairobi:The once-thriving tree cover that defined Lugari Sub-County’s landscape is steadily disappearing, leaving farms increasingly vulnerable to soil erosion, rising temperatures, and the effects of climate change. As forests shrink and weather patterns become more unpredictable, many farmers are rediscovering the value of integrating trees into their farms to restore soil fertility, protect water sources, and secure sustainable livelihoods.
According to Kenya News Agency, across Lumakanda, Lugari, Mautuma, Chekalini, and Likuyani wards, farmers are combining indigenous and commercial tree species with maize, beans, and vegetables. The approach is restoring degraded land while providing timber, livestock fodder, firewood, and an additional source of household income. For Peter Wekesa, a farmer in Mautuma Ward, the change has transformed his four-acre farm. ‘Five years ago, I removed almost all the trees to create more space for maize. At first, the harvests improved, but after a few seasons, the soil became weak and dry. Since planting grevillea, calliandra, and indigenous trees, the land retains more moisture, erosion has reduced, and my maize yields have improved,’ he said.
Besides improving his harvests, Wekesa said the trees provide timber, firewood, and fodder for his livestock, reducing household expenses while creating another source of income. County Director of Environment Anthony Munanga said Kakamega County has intensified efforts to restore tree cover through community tree-planting campaigns, environmental education, and protection of water catchment areas. ‘Conserving trees is no longer just about protecting the environment. It is about securing livelihoods, improving agricultural productivity, and building resilience to climate change. We are working with schools, community groups, and farmers to rehabilitate degraded areas while protecting wetlands and riverbanks,’ he said.
The director attributed much of the environmental degradation to indiscriminate tree felling, charcoal burning, cultivation along riverbanks, and encroachment on wetlands, warning that the practices continue to threaten biodiversity and water sources. Kakamega County Executive Committee Member for Environment Peninah Mukabane said the county government is distributing thousands of tree seedlings annually through schools, public institutions, and organised farmer groups, with emphasis on indigenous species that enhance biodiversity, conserve water catchments, and restore degraded landscapes.
Mukabane said the county’s environmental programmes are aligned with the Kakamega County Climate Change Action Plan, which prioritises restoration of degraded ecosystems, protection of wetlands and water catchment areas, increased tree cover, and promotion of climate-smart agriculture to strengthen communities against the effects of climate change. She said the county is working with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), community conservation groups, and development partners to rehabilitate degraded landscapes, restore riparian ecosystems, and promote sustainable land management practices across the county.
‘Environmental conservation and agricultural production must go hand in hand. Restoring our forests, wetlands, and water catchments is critical not only for biodiversity conservation but also for safeguarding agriculture, which is the backbone of our economy. We want every farmer to recognise that planting and protecting trees is an investment in the future of their land and their livelihoods,’ Mukabane said. For Rose Naliaka, a vegetable farmer in Lumakanda, the benefits are already evident. ‘The weather is no longer predictable, but the trees help keep the soil moist, shield crops from strong winds, and provide shade during prolonged dry spells. I also earn extra income by raising and selling tree seedlings,’ she said.
Agricultural officers say integrating trees with crops improves soil structure, conserves moisture, reduces erosion, enriches soil fertility through organic matter, and creates a favourable environment for pollinators, ultimately boosting farm productivity while reducing the effects of climate change. Environmentalists warn that continued loss of tree cover could expose Lugari to more severe flooding during heavy rains, prolonged dry spells, and declining agricultural output, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of households that depend on farming. Residents have welcomed the county government’s conservation initiatives but are calling for stricter enforcement against illegal logging, charcoal burning, and the destruction of wetlands and riverbanks. They also want more farmers to be supported with quality tree seedlings and training on sustainable land management.
