Stakeholders have called for a stronger partnership between the National and County Governments to ensure the restoration of the Mt Elgon ecosystem.
They were led by Bungoma deputy governor Jennifer Mbatian during a tree planting exercise at Banantega in Mt Elgon constituency which was also graced by Economic Planning Principal Secretary Dr Bonface Makokha.
Mbatiany emphasized the need for collaborative efforts, particularly in mobilizing funds and supplying quality seedlings to drive the reforestation of Mt Elgon forest.
She noted that Mt Elgon ecosystem was not about the Sabaot community but for other communities depending on it and the future generations.
“Environmental conservation requires a serious united effort for now and next generation.” She noted
The deputy governor confirmed that Bungoma County’s forest cover currently stands at 22.04%.
Mbatiany stated that it surpasses the national average of 8.83% and the constitutional minimum of 10%.
“With the county aiming at increasing its forest cover to 30% by 2032 aligning with Kenya’s broader target of achieving 30% tree cover by the same year, she said
The deputy governor lauded the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) for conducting a critical one-week training session aimed at building the capacity of Bungoma County staff on public policy formation, which will enhance effectiveness of the workforce.
The deputy governor further applauded the move of KIPPRA for planting over 20,000 tree seedlings to restore Mt Elgon forest after their training both in Banantega and Cheptais all in Mt Elgon forest within the ecosystem.
By Douglas Mudambo
