Narok – Narok County’s commitment to protecting wetlands and enhancing ecosystem functionality was the focal point of the World Wetlands Day commemoration in Narok County. The event, led by County Governor Patrick Ntutu, took place at Enenyeei Swamp in Trans Mara West Sub County.
According to Kenya News Agency, the county administration is actively involved in ecosystem restoration, in line with the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration objectives. He highlighted the county’s progress in tree planting, with over 250,000 trees planted in January 2024 alone, as part of the broader Presidential directive to plant over 15 billion trees by 2032 to combat climate change.
Ntutu emphasized Narok County’s dedication to sustainable practices and natural heritage preservation, urging residents to commit to environmental conservation and wise use of wetlands. He also mentioned the Narok Climate Change Fund Act of 2021 and its regulations, which govern climate finance in the county. The county government dedicates 3 percent of its development budget to climate finance, amounting to about Sh. 150 million, demonstrating its commitment to tackling climate change challenges.
The Governor revealed the establishment of a Climate Change Planning Committee in every ward, playing a crucial role in strategic decision-making and policy direction. To further conserve wetlands, the county will collaborate with the Department of Forestry and Environment to determine the best trees for wetland areas.
Echoing the Governor’s sentiments, Trans Mara West Sub County Assistant County Commissioner Brian Wafula called on residents to actively participate in wetland conservation by planting suitable trees. The event saw attendance from Narok County Ecosystem Conservator Daniel Mkung, the Narok National Environment and Management Authority (NEMA) coordinator Fanuel Mosango, Members of County Assembly, top County Government officials, and numerous residents.