Vihiga: Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Dr. Deborah Mulongo, has pledged to work closely with the Vihiga County Government and local communities to address the contentious issue of human settlement in Maragoli and Kibiri forests. Her assurance came during a joint dialogue with Vihiga Governor, Dr. Wilber Ottichilo, who raised alarm over the growing challenge of illegal settlements within the two forests.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Mulongo emphasized the need to balance human habitation with environmental conservation, expressing confidence that strategies could be developed to protect the forests while meeting community needs. Governor Ottichilo highlighted the ongoing problem of unauthorized encroachment, which hampers tree planting and rehabilitation initiatives.
Governor Ottichilo pointed out that Maragoli Hills has become a hotspot for settlements, with residents constructing structures that undermine conservation efforts. Despite the County Government's efforts to fence off Kibiri Forest, illegal encroachments persist, complicating conservation efforts. Dr. Ottichilo stressed the importance of a coordinated approach, noting that addressing land issues decisively is crucial for effective reforestation and rehabilitation.
He suggested that negotiating with communities living in the forests and providing alternative settlement solutions would be key to achieving conservation goals. The dialogue underscored a shared commitment between the National and County governments to restore Vihiga's forests while ensuring a sustainable future for its residents.