Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa has stressed the need to strengthen agricultural reforms that will help mitigate effects of climate change.
Speaking at Maridadi Primary school in Kwanza Sub-County, Trans Nzoia County during a climate action and improved livelihood sensitization program, Dr. Barasa said climate change mitigation measures require an integrated multi-sectoral approach if tangible results were to be achieved.
“We have seen what is happening with our climate and our agricultural sector. We need to ensure that farmers and the public at large prepare and understand the need to fully join climate change mitigation measures,’ she stated.
Stating the progress made in the tree planting campaign, Dr. Barasa said 1.9 billion trees have so far been planted countrywide and encouraged Kenyans to continue with the exercise as it will go a long way in environmental protection and conservation.
“I urge all Kenyans to prepare to plant more trees during the upcoming rainy season. We have planted 90 million mangrove trees already, a far number from the previous 4 million. We are growing green and receiving global recognition,” she encouraged.
During the exercise, the CS donated 10 computers to Maridadi Primary school and handed over assistive devices to the persons with disabilities, including wheelchairs, all in a bid to ensure inclusivity.
Under the theme ‘Building Climate Resilience, Restoring Nature, Empowering Communities, the program sought among others to strengthen partnerships for climate action, sustainable livelihoods and inclusive community development brought together stakeholders from Kenya Sugar Board, Government Delivery Unit, Agricultural Food Authority, Kenya Seed Company, Teachers Service Commission, National Council for Persons With Disabilities, Kenya Institute of Mass Communication and Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
“We have chosen Kenya Kwanza to propel the government agenda in coordination with the majority of state agencies, so that people can know what the government is doing and bring services to the grassroots,” said Leonidah Shiundu, a Commissioner at the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC).
Shiundu noted that SRC is partnering with various Ministries for similar programs countrywide.
By Isaiah Nayika and Sandra Omondi
