Makueni: Makueni County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Urban Planning and Environment Dr. Paul Musila has called on leaders, parents, and the community to encourage children to conserve the environment. Dr. Musila was speaking during the celebrations of World Environment Day (WED) at Kwa Kea Comprehensive School in Mukaa Sub County where he noted that it was important to educate children on practical ways of conserving the environment to inculcate a sense of responsibility in society.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Musila particularly lauded the students who presented songs, poems, and skits that reflected the theme of this year's 'A Global Call to Climate Action.' He emphasized the importance of educating children on practical ways of conserving the environment, which would enable them to become responsible citizens committed to preserving the environment and ensuring sustainability for future generations.
Dr. Musila highlighted the need for everyone to contribute to environmental conservation by planting tree seedlings and ensuring they grow to maturity to restore degraded areas. During the event, he launched the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) scaling strategy on a pilot basis in Kiangini and Kalie areas in Kathozweni Sub County, and in Makindu Sub County. He disclosed that the overused land would be fenced and left to regenerate naturally without any farming or livestock grazing for the next five years, partnering with World Vision on this initiative.
Speaking at the same event, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Makueni County Director Jimmy Owiti echoed similar sentiments, stressing the importance of enhancing education and awareness from the grassroots level, particularly in schools. He noted that when children understand the need for environmental conservation at an early age, it promotes sustainable ecosystem development.
Owiti emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change and moving beyond mere words to take practical actions for environmental conservation and restoration. Mukaa Sub County Deputy County Commissioner Charles Igiha also urged local residents to plant tree seedlings and ensure their growth to maturity, contributing to environmental improvement and conservation in the area.
Additionally, partners such as World Vision, Jumuisha, INADES, Kenya Red Cross, Anglican Development Services, and My Green Institution addressed the gathering, supporting the call to action for environmental conservation.