Vihiga Governor Dr Wilber Ottichilo has commissioned the Gamurembe Tree Nursery and Apiculture Project in Muhudu Ward, Sabatia Sub-County, aimed at promoting environmental conservation, strengthening climate resilience and improving community livelihoods.
The project, implemented through the Directorate of Climate Change under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, combines indigenous tree seedling production with beekeeping to support ecosystem restoration and generate income for local communities.
The apiculture component comprises two apiaries equipped with 35 beehives each, bringing the total to 70. Each hive has the potential to produce up to 40 kilogrammes of honey annually, while the bees will also enhance pollination and support the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
Speaking during the commissioning, Dr. Ottichilo emphasised the need to protect indigenous trees and conserve forests, noting that environmental preservation requires active participation from local communities.
He observed that the area’s forest cover was an important natural resource that should be protected to safeguard water sources, improve air quality and preserve the environment for future generations.
The governor further urged the county government to prioritise purchasing tree seedlings from county-owned nurseries before sourcing them from private suppliers, saying the approach would strengthen local tree-growing initiatives.
The project includes the establishment of nursery structures, installation of security infrastructure, excavation and development of a water well and the supply of tree seeds, nursery materials and equipment.
However, the water component, including the well and storage tank, is yet to be completed, with the contractor expected to finalise the works.
The contractor is also expected to provide six months of training and support to equip the community with the skills needed to manage and sustain the project.
To further support the honey value chain, the county government is working to strengthen the South Maragoli Honey Factory, which is expected to provide opportunities for honey processing and marketing.
Dr Ottichilo also announced that his administration had committed Sh10 million towards completing the fence around Kibiri Forest as part of efforts to protect the county’s forest resources.
The Gamurembe Tree Nursery and Apiculture Project is part of the county’s broader efforts to advance locally led climate action by integrating environmental conservation, ecosystem restoration and sustainable economic activities at the community level.
By Victor Zedy and Rose Wasike
