Conservation efforts boosted as government distributes water tanks to tree nurseries

The State Department for Wildlife has taken a significant step toward boosting environmental conservation efforts in Western Kenya by distributing water tanks to support tree nurseries across Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties.

The initiative, presided over by Conservation Secretary Dr. John Chumo at the Mt. Elgon National Park offices, is part of the national government's broader strategy to enhance forest cover and build climate resilience.

Representing Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, Dr. Chumo emphasised the importance of sustainable land use and community participation in achieving Kenya's ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

“This is more than just handing out tanks. It is about empowering communities and learning institutions to become stewards of their environment, especially during dry spells when seedling survival is low. These tanks will ensure our nurseries thrive year-round,” said Dr. Chumo

The distributed tanks will primarily serve community-based nurseries and schools situated near forested ecosystems, including those bordering Mt. Elgon National Park. Dr. Chumo underscored the initiative’s alignment with President William Ruto’s directive on nationwide reforestation and climate adaptation.

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But the conservation message extended beyond tree planting.

Dr. Chumo issued a stern warning against poaching and illegal charcoal production, labelling proceeds from such activities as "blood money."

“When someone kills an elephant or burns our forests for illegal charcoal, they are not just breaking the law, they are endangering the lives of wildlife and future generations,” he said.

According to the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Kenya currently receives approximately 2.5 million tourists annually.

Dr. Chumo revealed that the government is actively working to raise that number to 7 million in the coming years, leveraging the country's natural beauty, cultural diversity, and conservation efforts.

“Tourism remains one of our greatest foreign exchange earners. Preserving our parks and wildlife is not only an ecological responsibility, it’s an economic one,” said Dr Chumu.

Dr. Chumo challenged residents to invest in eco-tourism ventures like the creation of Kokwo Trading Centre, envisioned as a cultural hub showcasing traditional artifacts and cuisine.

“We want to see communities benefit directly from conservation. Host open days, educate visitors, and promote domestic tourism,” he urged.

In addition to supporting nurseries, he called upon schools to integrate tree planting into their environmental education programs.

Komen Cheruto, headteacher of Kaberwa Primary School in Bungoma County, located near the Mt. Elgon ecosystem, voiced safety concerns.

“We are committed to conservation, but we need help. Elephants and buffalo sometimes stray into school grounds. Strengthening the chain link fences will protect both learners and staff,” Cheruto appealed.

The issue of human-wildlife conflict remains a challenge for communities bordering protected areas. Senior Assistant Director of the Western Conservation Area, Mr. Josphat Erupe, echoed the call for co-existence and vigilance against wildlife crimes.

“Poaching is not just a threat to biodiversity, it’s a threat to our national identity. We urge residents to report any illegal activity,” said Erupe.

Mt. Elgon National Park Assistant Director Collins Omondi highlighted the park's ongoing community outreach efforts.

“We conduct regular sensitisation campaigns to educate communities about the importance of wildlife and environmental conservation,” said Omondi.