Residents of Busia have been urged to embark on agroforestry with a view to combating and mitigating climate change.
Speaking during the official launch of the six-month’ marathon tree planting exercise at Alupe Sub County Hospital on Tuesday, the Cabinet Secretary for East African Community and Regional Development, Beatrice Askul, said that agroforestry, especially through the planting of fruit trees, is a powerful tool for communities aiming to combat and mitigate climate change while achieving sustainability and increased tree cover for the county.
‘By integrating fruit trees into agricultural practices, communities can enhance carbon sequestration, improve soil fertility, and increase biodiversity,’ she said, adding that the initiative helps in increasing crop yields and diverse income streams but also fosters local food security.
Askul added that agroforestry systems can quickly reduce soil erosion and improve water management, adding that they also promote social and economic well-being.
She noted that the tree cover for Busia County stands at 8.3% against the National target of 30%, urging the local residents to put more individual and collective efforts into increasing the tree cover.
Busia County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga urged the residents to take advantage of rainy seasons and plant trees and improve the environment.
Busia County Forest Conservator, Brenice Wanyonyi, advised farmers to ensure that they plant trees on at least 10% of their farms.
Wanyonyi called for collaborative efforts from all the local residents in tree planting to ensure that the County increases its tree cover from the current 8.3%.
‘I want to remind all the residents to report all the tree seedlings planted in their homes so that we can upload them in the Jaza Miti app,’ she said.
A total of 5,000 tree seedlings were planted at Alupe Sub County hospital premises through the support of Kenya Forest Services, partners, and the local community.
By Salome Alwanda
