Wote: Makueni County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Urban Planning, Environment, and Climate Change Dr. Paul Musila has called upon his staff and other stakeholders to set clear targets to guide efforts in conserving the environment. Dr. Musila emphasized that with specific and measurable goals, the county can better direct its actions toward restoring and protecting the degraded environment.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Musila stressed the importance of clear targets during the official opening of a workshop for County Environment Committee members and officers at a Wote hotel. The two-day workshop aimed to validate the Makueni County Forest and Landscape Restoration Plan (FOLAREP) and operationalize its implementation.
Dr. Musila drew a connection between rising cases of illnesses in communities and poor environmental management, urging residents to take personal responsibility in their daily actions that impact nature. He specifically warned against charcoal burning, which has severely contributed to environmental degradation in the county. He highlighted the positive impact of fencing off Chyulu National Park, noting that springs have started to flow again as a result.
The CECM revealed that implementing the restoration plan would require Sh30.1 billion up to 2033 and called for collective responsibility in resource mobilization and environmental protection. During the session, participants were informed about the policy brief, concept note, and resource mobilization strategy of FOLAREP, which aims for coordinated implementation across sectors.
Makueni County Director of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Jimmy Owiti, emphasized the need for proactive environmental conservation to protect the ecosystem from the worsening effects of climate change. He stressed the importance of having a clear strategy to address these issues and preserve the environment.
The workshop was also attended by the Chief Officer for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Geoffrey Ngovi, and other county officials, who highlighted the importance of collaboration in promoting sustainable environmental practices.
