The County Government of Siaya joined the Kokise and Aduoyo communities for a tree-growing exercise along the Ogun River in East Asembo Ward.
Held under the theme "Forests and Food," today's activity celebrates the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition, and livelihoods globally. The exercise that was led by CECM for Environment, Water, Climate Change and Natural Resources Prof. Hon. Jacqueline Oduol is part of Gov. James Orengo's efforts to improve tree cover in Siaya County to achieve the annual target of 500,000 trees with a focus on both indigenous species and fruit trees that directly contribute to food.
Prof. Oduol emphasized that the Nyalore administration has implemented several measures to boost both tree cover and food security. These include expanding tree-planting campaigns to restore degraded lands, prevent soil erosion, and provide local communities with additional sources of food and income. She noted that, through the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program, the County Government has launched a Tree Nursery Per Ward Program. This initiative supports land restoration projects aimed at reforesting severely degraded areas, improving soil health, enhancing water retention, and boosting agricultural productivity—all critical for long-term food security.
“We have completed the restoration of the Ogun River in partnership with FLLoCA, and when the rains begin, this seasonal river will no longer overflow,” Prof. Oduol stated.
The Chief Officer for Environment, Water, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, Mr. Oliech, expressed gratitude to FLLoCA for its role in the Ogun River restoration. “We have placed significant emphasis on bamboo, which has excellent water retention capabilities,” he said, noting that over 1,000 trees were planted along the riverbank during the event. He urged the county to be deliberate in protecting its forest cover and to avoid planting environmentally harmful species, such as blue gum trees.
Mr. Rop Kipkoech, County Director of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), observed, “agroforestry will enhance soil fertility and water retention, mitigating the long-term effects of climate change.”The community praised the Nyalore administration for its conservation efforts, particularly as riverbank areas have faced flooding and adverse climate change impacts. Through their representatives, they urged the County Government to extend similar projects to other areas for the benefit of the wider community.
The event was graced by County Government officials, including Mr. Lameck Okeyo (Environment Officer), Mr. Mielcazadeck Odhiambo (County Climate Change Coordinator), and SIBOWASCO Managing Director CPA Isaiah Adipo. Partners such as the Kenya Forest Service led by County Forest Conservator Mr. William Ojijo, and community-based organizations like Siaya Muungano Network, Anchor Bora, and Dala Rieko also participated.
