By Samson Wire
In line with the National Government’s Vision 2030, which requires all 47 county governments, including Siaya, to achieve 10% tree cover countrywide in line with Government and World Bank requirements, the County Government of Siaya through the Department of Water, Environment, Irrigation, Climate Change and Natural Resources joined the world in celebrating this year's World Environment Day at Ufinya Dam, Siaya Township Ward, Alego Usonga Sub-County.
Themed “Inspired by Nature for Climate Change for the Future,” the annual event, held every 5th of June seeks to address inefficiencies, inconsistencies, and challenges that continue to hinder environmental conservation efforts in society.
Representing the Nyalore administration at the event, Mr. Jared Abayo, Chief Officer for Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, spoke passionately about the inconsistencies that have led to missteps in conservation and outlined the steps the administration is taking to address them. The Nyalore administration has set strategic plans to be included into the next FY working with Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) to ensure funding for environmental sustainability for community based environmental conservation.
He thanked environmental partners for their continued support, which has resulted in successful conservation efforts and a healthier environment despite a few challenges.
Noting the potential of Ufinya Dam and its surroundings which feature spring water and rich biodiversity, Abayo highlighted the opportunities that could arise if the site is well harnessed.
“With proper utilisation, the dam could provide water for livestock and domestic use, becoming a lifesaving solution if well tapped,” said Mr. Abayo.
He also called for the rapid transformation of the dam to support fish farming for local fishers, the development of economically viable aquaculture, and ecotourism activities that would benefit the youth, women, men, and people with disabilities in the area and beyond. This, he said, could be achieved alongside the sustainable use of Lake Kanyaboli and Yala Swamp through strategic land-use plans that transform the biosphere site in accordance with existing regulations.
"The key pillars would be transformative agricultural production underpinned by sustained environmental conservation, " he added.
The event was also attended and supported by various environmental partners. Mr. Shem Omega, Kenya Forest Service Conservator, called on stakeholders and the community to plant more trees every day in line with Vision 2030.“Siaya’s tree cover is less than 2% according to the latest statistics from the Kenya Forest Service in 2020,” said the Conservator.
NEMA called for concerted action plans to ensure that environmental components such as land, atmosphere, and water are sustained for oxygen sufficiency and public health.
Other partners present included Muungano Youth Trust, DACCA, SOMO, the Kenya Forest Service, and NEMA, together with community members.