Busia:The State Department for Mining has initiated the planting of 10,000 tree seedlings at Alupe University in Busia County. This effort is part of a broader initiative to enhance forest cover and address climate change impacts.
According to Kenya News Agency, the department’s administrator, Raphael Okoth, stated that the initiative also aims to rehabilitate land affected by mining activities. He emphasized the department’s commitment to ensuring that mining contracts include land restoration clauses to return mined areas to their original state.
The tree planting took place on 10 acres within the university’s grounds, with the local community actively participating. Okoth underscored the importance of increasing tree planting across Busia County to counteract the harsh weather conditions attributed to low tree and forest cover.
Busia County Inspector of Mines, Rodi Persica, noted that the region currently hosts two active gold mining sites at Ojamii and Bumutiru. She highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure miner safety and address water shortages by recycling water for domestic use.
Jared Bitange, the County Forest Conservator, revealed plans to plant 180,000 trees during the upcoming Mazingira Day celebrations in Port Victoria, Bunyala Sub-County. While Busia’s tree cover has risen to 8.9%, Bitange called for increased public involvement to reach the national target of 30% tree cover by 2032.
Prof. Stephen Manya of Alupe University mentioned that the institution is planting various trees, including fruit trees, to enhance the environment and provide nutritional benefits. The university currently has over 300 mango trees, with plans to increase this number significantly by 2030.
