Kiambu County Government has embarked on an ambitious environmental restoration program in an effort to prevent landslides during rainy seasons.
County Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, Energy, Natural Resources and Climate Change, David Kuria, said this initiative has seen the department distribute six hundred Grevillea seedlings to farmers in Kiahuria, Kabete Municipality this week.
Kuria said the Grevillea species had been chosen for their deep root system, rapid growth and compatibility with food crops in agroforestry systems.
Kuria noted that the trees help strengthen soil structure, provide shade and offer long-term economic value through timber and firewood.
The initiative is aimed at increasing forest cover and promoting sustainable land use. Authorities expect the new plantings to curb soil erosion, improve soil fertility and enhance carbon absorption on smallholder farms, particularly in areas prone to flooding and soil instability.
Kuria said the distribution exercise reflected the county administration’s commitment to climate resilience and farmer support. “Our priority is to safeguard our communities by restoring our environment and promoting sustainable farming practices,” he said.
“Every tree we plant is a step toward preventing soil instability and building a greener, healthier Kiambu,” he added.
Farmers in Kiahuria have welcomed the project amid increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns. Beneficiary Samuel Njoroge said the seedlings would help stabilize his sloping farmland. “These seedlings will help hold the soil together and protect my crops. With the rains becoming heavier, this support is very important for us farmers,” he said.
The Directorate of Natural Resources and Forestry has also intensified conservation work in fragile ecosystems with more than 3000 seedlings recently planted at the Roromo wetland through a partnership with the Community Sustainable Development Empowerment Program.
Officials said the restoration would improve water retention, boost biodiversity and strengthen long-term climate resilience.
Meanwhile a parallel community greening campaign involving churches and schools is progressing across the county with ACK Kibiku Church being among the latest beneficiaries.
This is after the church received 500 free seedlings, with the department urging institutions to join the program by committing to nurture the trees to maturity.
The heightened focus on prevention follows a deadly incident in Elgeyo Marakwet County, where more than 30 people were killed in a landslide early this month’ highlighting the increasing vulnerability of hillside communities during intense rainfall.
by Grace Naishoo
