The County Government of Vihiga has strengthened its efforts to promote environmental conservation and climate resilience after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Catholic Justice and Peace Department (CJPD) of the Catholic Diocese of Kakamega.
The agreement, signed through the County Department of Environment, Water, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change, builds on an existing partnership that has supported the establishment of community tree nurseries, reforestation of the Maragoli Hills, and increased participation of faith-based organisations in environmental conservation initiatives.
The renewed partnership seeks to empower communities through agroecological practices, school-based environmental programmes, community-led ecosystem restoration activities, and public awareness campaigns on responsible solid waste management.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Acting County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Environment, Water, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Meshack Mulongo, described the MoU as a demonstration of the strong and enduring collaboration between the county government and the church.
Mulongo said the partnership underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, community empowerment and sustainable development for the benefit of current and future generations in Vihiga County.
Under the agreement, the two institutions will collaborate in supporting the establishment and operationalisation of community and institutional tree nurseries, conducting environmental awareness campaigns, and restoring and protecting the Maragoli Hills Forest.
Other areas of cooperation include promoting tree-growing initiatives in schools and parishes across the county, supporting alternative income-generating activities to enhance community resilience against climate change, organising periodic environmental clean-up exercises, and rehabilitating ecologically sensitive areas such as wetlands, springs and former mining sites.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by County Secretary Vincent Chanzu and other county officials.
The CJPD delegation was led by its Coordinator, Rev. Fr Boniface Mmbwanga, who reaffirmed the church’s commitment to working closely with the county government to promote environmental sustainability and improve community livelihoods.
The partnership is expected to contribute significantly to the county’s environmental restoration agenda while strengthening community participation in climate action initiatives.
by Convivian Khasoha
