Nairobi: The County Government of Nakuru has initiated efforts to restore the degraded riparian land around River Njoro and River Ndarugu in partnership with state agencies, research institutions, educational bodies, and environmental conservation groups. This undertaking seeks to harness natural wetlands to mitigate climate change impacts and enhance resilience among citizens.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chief Officer for Environment Mr. Kennedy Mungai stated that the county is prioritizing the planting of indigenous trees, which have been felled in recent years by illegal loggers and small-scale farmers. The focus is on conserving the Njoro River riparian land, which spans 3.5 kilometers from Sigaon Village to Neissuit Center, and the 5-kilometer River Ndarugu riparian area from Kenyatta Bridge to Piave.
Mr. Mungai expressed concerns about the deliberate destruction of riparian land by individuals and businesses. After overseeing the distribution of indigenous and fruit tree seedlings, bamboo shoots, and grass tillers, he emphasized the importance of the River Njoro for supporting over one million people, recharging groundwater, and sustaining biodiversity. He called on the community to protect the river's source to safeguard Lake Nakuru, a significant source of foreign earnings for Kenya.
The initiative includes introducing indigenous fruit trees and bamboo to stabilize riverbanks, create carbon sinks, and offer alternative livelihoods for residents. The selected bamboo species are noted for their rapid growth and soil erosion prevention capabilities, while the fruit trees will enhance food security and agroforestry efforts.
Efforts are also underway to rehabilitate the riparian land around Lake Naivasha by planting acacia trees and papyrus. Mr. Mungai highlighted the need for sustainable wetlands management and the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with indigenous practices to inform policies and conservation strategies.
The restoration projects, led by the Department of Environment, aim to enhance biodiversity and promote sustainable land management. Governor Susan Kihika's administration is committed to environmental restoration, emphasizing the protection of river ecosystems to combat climate change and improve water quality.
Individuals encroaching on riparian land are urged to vacate voluntarily as the rehabilitation progresses. Mr. Mungai stressed the importance of identifying riparian boundaries to protect these areas and encouraged farmers to maintain a 30-meter distance between their farms and rivers.
The Chief Officer underscored the significance of riparian land for Kenyan households and the tourism and energy sectors. He noted the adverse effects of human activities on water levels and the need for buffer zones to protect the environment.
Dr. Charles Koech, Chief Officer for Public Service and Administration, emphasized the importance of riparian conservation for water flow, soil erosion prevention, and biodiversity. The projects aim to provide long-term environmental and economic benefits to local communities while aligning with Kenya's tree-growing initiatives and global climate change strategies.
Wetlands, described as "nature's kidneys," are vital for water retention, climate regulation, and biodiversity. Dr. Koech highlighted the urgent need for awareness and action to conserve and restore these ecosystems to mitigate climate change effects and ensure sustainable development in Kenya.