Egerton University and the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) have initiated a partnership to protect and restore wetlands in Nakuru County and curb further threats resulting from human activities.
The University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Kibwage, said they were planning to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with NEMA towards the restoration of key ecological assets, including the Keringet Forest area and Kenyatta Dam within Nakuru County.
While disclosing the university’s commitment to offer an acre of land within its Njoro main campus for NEMA’s tree planting initiatives, Prof. Kibwage explained that encroachment for agricultural activities, pollution, urbanisation, and climate change, among others, were the main threats to Kenya’s wetlands.
This, he added, has consequently led to the loss of key wetlands and associated products and services.
Speaking when he hosted a delegation led by NEMA Board Member Prof. Charles Ngome, the Vice Chancellor highlighted Egerton University’s contributions to wetland restoration, including rehabilitation and handover of the Njoro River, the launch of plastic waste burning at the university in 2017, hosting nine consecutive Editions of Run for the Mau Forest Conservation Marathon, and the creation of a botanical garden at the University.
“Egerton University’s Green Club activities and annual tree donations contribute to environmental conservation, while wetlands, crucial ecosystems, are often undervalued and unnoticed,” he stated.
Prof. Ngome was accompanied by the Rift Valley Regional Director of Environment, Njoki Mukiri, and Nakuru NEMA County Director, Joseph Kopejo.
They noted that Wetlands are waterlogged areas, which can include marshes, swamps, and bogs. They are critical habitats for countless plant and animal species.
According to Professor Kibwage, wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing and filtering excess nutrients, pollutants, and sediments from water bodies, which helps to purify water and prevent flooding.
Furthermore, wetlands are essential for biodiversity conservation. They provide critical habitat for migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife.
Wetlands are also important carbon sinks, with the ability to store large amounts of carbon in their soils and vegetation. He stated that by conserving and restoring wetlands, the country can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
The Vice Chancellor urged NEMA officers, to help in stopping eucalyptus growing alongside riparian lands, saying people should plant indigenous trees and stop ploughing 30 metres up, away from water bodies and wetlands.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, wetlands are among the world’s most productive ecosystems, providing a wide range of ecosystem services.
These include flood control, water purification, biodiversity conservation, and climate regulation.
By Esther Mwangi
