Residents of Kanjeri in Emuhaya Sub-County have been urged to intensify tree planting and adopt sustainable farming practices to mitigate effects of climate change.
Speaking during an Mazingira week function held at Chanzeywe Polytechnic, the Vihiga County Crops Officer Tony Anduvate said trees play a critical role in absorbing greenhouse gases and enhancing climate resilience.
Anduvate said the department distributed assorted seedlings to farmers including oil palm, Hass avocado, indigenous tree species and traditional vegetable seeds such as Mito, Mrenda, Kunde, Mchicha, Managu and Malenge(pumpkin).
He noted that oil palm trees will not only beautify the environment, but also provide income within three years through fruit production, urging farmers to plant the seeds to improve nutrition and livelihoods instead of selling them.
Vihiga County Commissioner (CC) Jeremiah Gicheru, who graced the event, explained the scientific importance of reforestation, noting that through photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen essential for human life.
He added that trees contribute to rainfall formation through transpiration, terming reforestation a key defense against crop failure and harsh climatic conditions.
A representative from the County Forest Department Elphine Ndeda lauded Vihiga for ranking among top counties nationally in tree and forest cover, attributing the local cool microclimate to aggressive tree planting, unlike neighbouring lowland areas like Kiboswa and Kisumu.
Area resident Kefa Khamati welcomed the distribution of oil palm seedlings, saying the crop is highly beneficial.
“The oil palm is beneficial as it is used in production of cooking oil and soap and it is environmentally friendly. I urge residents to plant more trees to reduce deforestation and improve our ecosystem,” Khamati said.
On security, the CC warned against illicit brews transported via boda-bodas, citing a recent police raid at Majengo and called on Assistant Chiefs and residents to report offenders.
He also decried rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), child abuse and unregulated night events commonly known as Disco Matanga, which he linked to school dropouts, youth exploitation and insecurity.
Gicheru urged parents to prioritize children’s education and safety, especially as national examinations approach.
The event culminated in distribution of seedlings and a collective pledge by residents to support conservation and community safety initiatives.
by Victor Zedy and Maureen Imbayi
