LVBC Invests in Ecosystem Restoration in Siaya and Busia Counties

Siaya/Busia, Kenya – The Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) has allocated Sh12.8 million for ecosystem restoration initiatives in Siaya and Busia counties. The Commission’s efforts are part of the Adapting to Climate Change Project in the Lake Victoria Basin, which has led to the planting of over 90,000 trees across the two counties.

According to Kenya News Agency, this year has seen significant support for Busia County, particularly in restoring the Osipata degraded ecosystem. This included the planting of over 10,000 bamboo seedlings and the establishment of an indigenous tree nursery in Osipata Village, Teso South Sub County. Dr. Bwire, whose speech was delivered by Principle Administrative Officer Millicent Opiyo during the national tree planting day at Busia Prison, also mentioned the restoration efforts at Odiado Hills in Samia, involving the planting of over 5,000 bamboo and fruit trees.

The LVBC, contributing 1,500 tree seedlings for planting at the correctional facility, has embraced a unified regional approach to combat climate change. This approach combines immediate impact measures, such as planting indigenous and rapidly growing plant species, with long-term solutions. Dr. Bwire emphasized the effectiveness of this ecosystem-based adaptation approach in protecting communities from the adverse impacts of climate change, which is significantly affecting livelihoods in Siaya and Busia counties. “These are efforts to save our EAC region from the devastating effects of Climate Change,” he stated.