Vihiga:Residents of Kanjeri in Emuhaya Sub-County have been encouraged to amplify their tree planting efforts and adopt sustainable farming practices as a strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change.
According to Kenya News Agency, during a Mazingira week event at Chanzeywe Polytechnic, Vihiga County Crops Officer Tony Anduvate emphasized the critical role of trees in absorbing greenhouse gases and enhancing climate resilience. The department provided farmers with various seedlings, including oil palm, Hass avocado, indigenous tree species, and seeds for traditional vegetables like Mito, Mrenda, Kunde, Mchicha, Managu, and Malenge (pumpkin).
Anduvate highlighted the benefits of oil palm trees, noting that they not only enhance the beauty of the environment but also offer an income source within three years through fruit production. He urged farmers to plant these seeds to improve nutrition and livelihoods rather than selling them.
Vihiga County Commissioner Jeremiah Gicheru, who attended the event, explained the scientific importance of reforestation. He noted that trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which is essential for human life, and contribute to rainfall formation through transpiration. He termed reforestation as a crucial defense against crop failure and harsh climatic conditions.
Elphine Ndeda, a representative from the County Forest Department, praised Vihiga for being among the top counties nationally in tree and forest cover. Ndeda attributed the local cool microclimate to the aggressive tree planting in Vihiga, contrasting it with neighboring lowland areas like Kiboswa and Kisumu.
Local resident Kefa Khamati expressed support for the distribution of oil palm seedlings, citing their environmental benefits and uses in cooking oil and soap production. Khamati urged fellow residents to plant more trees to combat deforestation and enhance the ecosystem.
On security matters, Commissioner Gicheru warned against illicit brews being transported via boda-bodas, referencing a recent police raid in Majengo. He called on Assistant Chiefs and residents to report offenders. Gicheru also expressed concern over rising cases of gender-based violence, child abuse, and unregulated night events known as Disco Matanga, linking them to school dropouts and youth exploitation.
He urged parents to prioritize their children’s education and safety, especially with national examinations approaching. The event concluded with the distribution of seedlings and a collective pledge by residents to support conservation and community safety initiatives.
