Trans Nzoia County today joined the global community in marking the International Day of Forests, a crucial observance dedicated to highlighting the role of forests in sustaining life. The celebrations, held at Shimo la Tewa in Kiminini Sub County, centered on this year’s theme, “Forests and Foods.”

Speaking at the event, Dorothy Nyukuri, Chief Officer for Water, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, emphasized the essential role forests play in air purification, carbon storage, biodiversity conservation, and food security.

“Forests purify the air, store carbon, nurture biodiversity, and sustain livelihoods. Yet, they face constant threats from deforestation, climate change, and unsustainable land use,” she stated.

She further highlighted how forests serve as a crucial source of nutrition for billions of people, providing essential foods such as fruits, nuts, mushrooms, honey, and medicinal plants.

🌱 Restoring Shimo la Tewa River

The Trans Nzoia County Government, through its Department of Environment, is spearheading a major river restoration initiative in collaboration with the World Bank-funded FLLoCA project.

Ms. Nyukuri announced that Shimo la Tewa River, a vital water source for local communities, will undergo significant rehabilitation:

✅ Free tree seedlings will be distributed to residents.
✅ The riparian land will be demarcated to prevent further encroachment.
✅ Efforts will focus on replacing invasive eucalyptus trees with indigenous and fruit-bearing species.

“This is key to restoring the ecosystem and ensuring clean water for the people of Shimo la Tewa,” Ms. Nyukuri explained.

She urged residents to remove eucalyptus trees from riparian zones to allow for the natural regeneration of local plant species, which support better water retention and biodiversity.

🤝 Khetias Supermarket’s Role in Environmental Conservation

The County Government applauded Khetias Supermarket for its active participation in reforestation and donation of tree seedlings to support the initiative.

Ms. Nyukuri specifically recognized Khetias Director Mahindra and Sales & Marketing Manager Fredic Ochieng for their contribution:

“Khetias Supermarket has demonstrated exceptional commitment to our environmental conservation efforts. Their donation of tree seedlings and involvement in planting exercises is truly commendable.”

Fredic Ochieng emphasized that environmental sustainability is central to the supermarket’s philosophy:

“For any business to thrive, there must be a conducive environment—clean air, water, and a healthy ecosystem. Our director, Mr. Mahindra, strongly believes in supporting initiatives that safeguard our planet.”

This partnership aligns with Trans Nzoia County’s broader strategy to tackle climate change, deforestation, and ecosystem degradation while engaging private sector stakeholders.

🏡 Community Commitment & Sustainable Practices

Environmental leaders and stakeholders present at the event included:

✅ Stanley Ambasa, Director of NEMA in Trans Nzoia
✅ Godfrey Wekesa, County Director of Environment
✅ Caroline Wakuloba, Director of Kenya Forest Service

They called on residents to embrace sustainable tree-growing practices beyond just planting.

“It’s one thing to plant a tree but another to ensure it grows. We urge everyone to adopt the ‘Plant, Adopt, Grow’ (PAG) strategy to combat climate change,” they urged.

Local schools, civil society organizations, and environmental groups actively participated in discussions on the links between forests, food security, and sustainable agriculture.

🚀 A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future

As the event concluded, Ms. Nyukuri reaffirmed the county’s unwavering commitment to protecting and restoring forests:

“Together, we must act to preserve nature for future generations.”

Trans Nzoia’s observance of the International Day of Forests served as a powerful reminder that:

✔️ Forests are essential for food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity.
✔️ Community engagement is key to sustaining conservation efforts.
✔️ Government and private-sector partnerships can amplify environmental impact.

With these commitments in place, Shimo la Tewa River’s restoration is set to become a model for ecosystem recovery across the region. 🌍🌿