Kiambu County officials and environmental partners have launched Mazingira Week to raise public awareness and encourage residents to take an active role in conserving the environment and protecting natural resources.
The week-long programme was launched on Monday at the Kiambu National Polytechnic. It brought together representatives from the national and county governments, the Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Red Cross, local administrators and other partners.
Activities planned during the week include public sensitization campaigns, clean-up exercises and tree planting. A roadside tree-planting exercise will be held on October 9 in partnership with the Ministry of Roads and the Kenya National Highways Authority.
Speaking during the launch, Kiambu Deputy County Commissioner Titus Macharia said clean-up exercises had already begun in parts of the county. He called on young people, government officers and other residents to continue educating communities about environmental conservation.
Macharia said climate change had affected agriculture and businesses and contributed to human-wildlife conflict as animals travel farther in search of food and water.
“We have seen devastating effects of climate change where even Animals have to go far to look for water and food, invading people’s homesteads, let’s plant and take good care of trees” he said.
He urged residents to plant and nurture trees, noting that the benefits may be enjoyed by future generations rather than immediately.
Kiambu County Forest Conservator Andrew Matindi said Mazingira Week was not only about planting trees but also ensuring that planted seedlings survive.
“It is not entirely about planting trees, but maintaining and taking care of them. The most important part is awareness,” Matindi said.
He said the roadside planting exercise planned for October 9 would help create shaded routes for pedestrians and improve the local environment.
“We are at times burned by strong sunlight while walking. We want to ensure that our people are comfortable even while trekking,” he said.
Kiambu National Polytechnic Chief Principal Sammy K. Waititu thanked the county administration for choosing the institution to host the launch.
Waititu said the polytechnic had invested in rainwater harvesting and waste segregation as part of its environmental programme. He added that the institution’s Green Army was helping to keep the school premises clean.
He urged participants to use the week to learn more about greening and adopt practices that would make their surroundings cleaner, healthier and safer.
The event gave stakeholders an opportunity to renew their commitment to environmental conservation and mobilize the public to participate in Mazingira Week activities.
by Mitchelle Ayuma and Grace Naishoo
