KVDA boosts tree planting, water harvesting ahead of El Niño

The Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) has ramped up efforts to prepare for the upcoming El Niño rains in West Pokot County, with a focus on environmental conservation and water harvesting to minimize the impact of extreme weather. Cabinet Secretary for East African Community Affairs, ASALs and Regional Development Beatrice Askul toured a tree nursery hosting 350,000 seedlings at Chepsurur- Kishaunet in West Pokot Sub-County, one of sixteen such nurseries set up by KVDA in its jurisdiction.

The visit aimed to evaluate the region's readiness to capture the anticipated rains while minimizing risks related to flooding, soil erosion, and water scarcity. Askul's inspection followed countrywide meteorological reports indicating the likelihood of El Niño, emphasizing the importance of early preparation across the nation. KVDA's efforts are essential to safeguard the upper Kerio Valley, which provides vital resources such as rivers, dams, water pans, and boreholes to downstream communities, particularly those in arid and semi-arid regions reliant on these natural sources.

The government has allocated funds for the procurement and distribution of tree seedlings, with KVDA anticipated to contribute four million seedlings for planting during the expected El Niño rains. However, Askul cautioned communities to take precautions ahead of the rains, particularly residents and livestock near rivers, advising them to relocate to higher ground to prevent damage from excess runoff, given West Pokot's pastoralist nature and susceptibility to flooding.