Bomet: Bomet County Governor Hillary Barchok has called upon members of local communities to uphold tree growing and protection of forests for the sake of environmental conservation and climate change resilience. Barchok emphasized the importance of proper forest conservation for maintaining ecological balance, providing habitats for wildlife, and ensuring sufficient rainfall for crop production, which is crucial for food security.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Governor was speaking at Chepalungu Forest in Bomet County during the celebrations to mark the 2025 International Day of Forests. The theme for this year was 'Forests and Food.' The event's highlight was an afforestation tree planting exercise at Chepalungu Forest Station (Kapchumbe Block) in Ndanai Abosi Ward of Sotik Sub County. The celebration was attended by the Principal Secretary of the State Department of Forestry, Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, representing the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Hon. Aden Duale.
The Chepalungu Forest, once a natural habitat, has recently been threatened by encroachment, deforestation, and general degradation. Governor Barchok reiterated the government's commitment to restoring the expansive forest in the South Rift region. He expressed gratitude to both state and non-state actors for their efforts in rejuvenating the forest.
Governor Barchok acknowledged several partners who have joined the cause to restore Chepalungu Forest to its past glory. These partners include the Kenya Forest Service, African Development Bank, Kenya Wildlife Service, Smach Foundation, Kengen, Bomet University College, Chepalungu Forest Association, Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI), among others.
He specifically thanked the Smach Foundation, an NGO that has offered to adopt up to 200 acres of the Kapchumbe Block of the forest for rehabilitation. The foundation also donated various equipment, including water tanks, wheelbarrows, jembes, and spades, to neighboring schools to support the nurturing of tree nurseries for reforestation. The initiative by the Smach Foundation aims to involve school children in tree growing and conservation for sustainability.
Governor Barchok appealed to the public to continue planting trees and caring for existing forests as part of the government's reforestation campaigns. He advised planting water-friendly tree varieties in water catchment and riparian areas.