Kisii, Kenya: The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has embarked on a unique initiative by incorporating Gusii elders into their environmental conservation efforts. This move is part of NEMA’s broader corporate social responsibility activities focused on preserving and safeguarding the environment.

According to Kenya News Agency, the NEMA Director General Representative, speaking at a hotel in Gucha Sub County, the Gusii elders play a pivotal role in environmental matters as custodians of the Abagusii culture. He emphasized the importance of promoting the cultivation of indigenous trees and the integration of cultural values that contribute to the community’s development. Dr. Ondimu also urged tree nursery growers in Kisii and Nyamira counties to focus on planting eco-friendly indigenous tree species while reducing the nurseries for eucalyptus trees.

Dr. Ondimu highlighted the environmental benefits of indigenous trees, such as providing firewood and maintaining biodiversity, which helps protect crops from birds. He also raised concerns about the future water supply in Kisii County, noting the encroachment of human activities into wetlands and swamps, including settlements, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

NEMA Board Member Amos Andama called for a collaborative approach to environmental conservation, stating that it should not be the sole responsibility of the government. Andama reported that the Gusii elders had agreed to prioritize environmental protection and conservation in their mandate and would partner with NEMA as champions in these efforts.

James Matundura, Chairman of the Gusii Council of Elders, stressed the importance of community collaboration with environmental stakeholders. He emphasized the need to educate the community on the importance of removing eucalyptus trees from wetlands, acknowledging the crucial role elders play in environmental conservation and in protecting the county’s wetlands.

Following the training session, NEMA officials, Gusii elders, and local leaders participated in a tree-planting exercise at Riamo Technical Institute grounds in the same sub-county, demonstrating their commitment to practical environmental actions.