Kisii County Leads the Fight Against Climate Change

By Orenge Wycliff

Kisii County Leads the Fight Against Climate Change

In the face of a growing global climate crisis, Kisii County has emerged as a frontrunner in Kenya’s efforts to combat climate change. Widely referred to as the “green county,” Kisii boasts a 15% tree cover and a 19% forest cover. Despite challenges such as population pressure and land fragmentation, the county has demonstrated a strong commitment to implementing sustainable environmental practices and achieving the ambitious national climate targets.

A National Call to Action

The urgency of addressing climate change is evident globally, and Kenya is no exception. President William Ruto’s directive to plant 15 billion trees nationwide by 2032 underscores the country’s dedication to reversing the effects of environmental degradation. Each of Kenya’s 47 counties has been tasked with planting 14 million trees annually to contribute to this goal. Kisii County has embraced this challenge wholeheartedly, having planted over four million trees in the past two years alone. This effort places the county on a steady path toward achieving its targets and making significant contributions to the national grid.

Land Use and Vegetation Cover in Kisii

Kisii County’s landscape presents unique opportunities and challenges in the fight against climate change. According to recent statistics:

• Forest Cover: 19% (10.9 kha)
• Grassland: 0.74% (423 ha)
• Settlement: 73% (42.0 kha)
• Wetland: <0.1% (2 ha)
• Cropland: 6.9% (3.94 kha)
• Other: <0.1%

The high settlement rate highlights the county’s dense population, leaving limited land for forestry and agricultural activities. Informal settlements are common, posing additional challenges such as land degradation and soil erosion. However, Kisii County’s leadership has taken proactive steps to address these challenges through policies, programs, and public awareness campaigns.

Proactive Measures by Kisii County

The Kisii County Department of Water, Environment, and Climate Change has been at the forefront of implementing strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. The county allocates 2-3% of its development budget toward climate change initiatives, focusing on tree planting, environmental restoration, and community engagement. Key measures include:

1. Tree Planting Drives

The county’s tree-planting campaigns have been instrumental in increasing forest and tree cover. October has been designated as the official tree-planting month, during which county officials, including Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries, oversee large-scale planting activities. These initiatives have restored degraded areas, expanded wetlands, and strengthened the county’s resilience to climate change.

^{Kisii county Governor Simba Arati pouring water to a newly planted tree during a tree planting activity at Nsaria Hill Bonchari Constituency. _{Photo| Curtesy.}}

2. Forest Conservation and Restoration

Although Kisii County lacks gazetted forests, it is home to several unprotected forests, including Nyangweta, Ritumbe, and Sameta Hills. These forests cover a total of 228.4 hectares and are critical for biodiversity, water catchment, and soil conservation. Efforts to protect and restore these forests include:

• Replanting degraded areas, such as the Nyangweta Hills, which were recently burned.
• Sensitizing communities on sustainable forest management.
• Advocating for the gazettement of forests to ensure legal protection and proper management.

3. Agroforestry and Green Economy Promotion

To address the county’s limited land availability, Kisii has embraced agroforestry—integrating trees with crop and livestock farming. This approach enhances income generation while providing environmental benefits. Community tree nurseries have been established across the county, enabling residents to grow indigenous and exotic tree species for:

• Soil conservation and fertility improvement.
• Firewood and construction materials.
• Fruit production to enhance nutrition and generate surplus for markets.

Additionally, the county is exploring opportunities in medicinal plant cultivation and animal feed production, both of which have high economic potential.

4. Water Catchment Protection

Kisii County has prioritized the protection of its water catchment areas to ensure sustainable water supply and reduce soil erosion. Key activities include:

• Planting trees along riverbanks and hilltops.
• Removing water-draining blue gum trees from wetlands.
• Encouraging community participation in maintaining clean and healthy waterways.

5. Soil Conservation

Uncontrolled grazing and cultivation on hilltops have led to severe soil erosion in areas like Nyangweta Hills. To counter this, the county has implemented community training programs on soil conservation methods, supported by both government and non-governmental organizations. Farmers are being equipped with knowledge and resources to adopt sustainable farming practices.

Industry and Renewable Energy

Kisii County’s industries, particularly tea factories, rely heavily on wood fuel for energy. Factories like Eberege, Tendere, and Kiamokama have been encouraged to establish their own tree plantations and explore alternative energy sources. The county’s emphasis on renewable energy aims to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring the sustainability of key industries.

Community Sensitization and Engagement

Community involvement is a cornerstone of Kisii’s climate action strategy. The county has formed committees at the sub-county level to educate residents on climate change and mobilize them to participate in mitigation efforts. Activities include:

• Workshops on soil protection and water conservation.
• Training on environmentally friendly crop selection.
• Awareness campaigns to discourage practices that harm ecosystems, such as planting invasive species.

Leadership in Action

Leah Bwari Ogega, the County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, and Climate Change, has been instrumental in driving these initiatives. Her hands-on approach includes participating in tree-planting activities and advocating for renewable energy adoption. “As a county, we are determined to ensure that Kisii is safe and ready to combat climate change by educating farmers on tree planting and renewable energy,” she said.

The Road Ahead

Kisii County’s efforts align with Kenya’s broader climate goals and reflect a commitment to sustainable development. By combining government policies, community participation, and innovative approaches, Kisii is paving the way for a greener, more resilient future. However, challenges remain, including the need for increased funding, better land-use planning, and greater public awareness.

As the world grapples with the effects of global warming, Kisii County’s proactive measures serve as a model for other regions. Residents are encouraged to support these initiatives and contribute to creating a safer, healthier planet for future generations.