Machakos:Communities in Machakos County undertook a significant clean-up and greening initiative along the Machakos-Wote Road as part of efforts to promote environmental conservation in anticipation of World Environment Day and El Niño readiness.
According to Kenya News Agency, the event carried the national theme of Citizen Centric Tree Growing and Environmental Stewardship. It involved activities such as clearing garbage, unclogging drainages, and restoring the roadside ecosystem.
Machakos Deputy County Commissioner Machira Gathungu, who officially launched the exercise, highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in environmental management. He stressed the need for community involvement in keeping the environment clean, planting trees, and exercising caution around traffic.
The initiative showcased the cooperation among various entities, including the Kenya National Highways Authority, Kenya Rural Roads Authority, Kenya Forest Service, Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority, the County Government of Machakos, national administration officers, and volunteers. TARDA Regional Coordinator Gibson Mwakideu affirmed his team’s commitment to the joint effort, emphasizing collective action for environmental conservation.
County Forest Conservator Milka Mutua remarked that the Machakos initiative is part of a broader national conservation strategy, contributing to World Environment Day celebrations at NYS Yatta and throughout the sub-counties. The drive aims to beautify roads, mitigate climate change effects, and prepare for El Niño by ensuring clear waterways.
Participants and volunteers, equipped with brooms, rakes, and garbage bags, worked diligently along the dual carriageway, transforming the highway by removing debris, silt, and plastics. Students from Machakos University and community youth groups participated by collecting waste, while learners at Katumani Primary School engaged in tree planting and environmental education, underscoring the campaign’s citizen-centric approach.
