Homa Bay County has intensified its efforts to combat climate change, with Governor Gladys Wanga disbursing Ksh. 12.3 million to 82 community groups across its 40 wards. The funds, allocated through the Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme, aim to promote environmental conservation while providing economic opportunities for residents.
The FLLoCA Programme, a collaborative initiative between the National Government, County Government, the World Bank, and other donors, seeks to address climate change challenges through grassroots participation. Each group received a grant of Ksh. 150,000, which will be utilized for planting 100,000 tree seedlings in their localities.
Speaking during the cheque distribution event in Homa Bay Town on Saturday, Governor Wanga emphasized the critical role of tree planting in mitigating climate change and reversing environmental degradation. She pledged her administration’s support for the groups’ initiatives by purchasing seedlings directly from them when needed.
“Whenever my government requires seedlings, we will prioritize purchasing from these groups. The same will apply to the National Government whenever there is a need,” said Wanga.
Reviving Degraded Water Towers
Governor Wanga highlighted the dire state of Homa Bay’s forests, including Gwassi, Kodera, Lambwe, and Gembe, which have suffered significant degradation due to deforestation. She expressed optimism that the programme would not only restore these critical water towers but also address adverse climate effects such as prolonged droughts and recurrent flooding.
“These forests, which play a vital role in attracting rainfall, have been degraded excessively. The droughts and floods we experience in Homa Bay are a direct result of this environmental damage. Through this programme, we aim to plant more than eight million seedlings to reverse this trend,” she said.
The Governor underscored the dual benefits of the initiative: conserving the environment and enhancing food security. By improving tree cover and addressing climate variability, the county can mitigate extreme weather conditions that negatively impact agriculture and livelihoods.
Economic Opportunities for Residents
Beyond environmental benefits, the tree-planting initiative is designed as a source of income for participating groups. The seedlings, grown in nursery beds within local villages, will be sold to governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as individuals.
Wanga assured the groups of a ready market for their seedlings, reinforcing her government’s commitment to supporting community-driven climate action.
“This project is not just about planting trees; it is also about creating livelihoods. We are empowering our communities to take ownership of their environment while earning a living,” she said.
Caution Against Misuse of Funds
Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga urged the groups to ensure the funds are utilized for their intended purpose. He encouraged them to focus on planting tree species that are both marketable and suited to local climatic conditions.
“Let every group use these funds wisely. Plant trees that are adaptable to your area’s climate and have a ready market,” said Magwanga.
Expanding Climate Resilience
Environment County Executive Committee Member Dr. Joash Aloo outlined plans to integrate water projects into the FLLoCA Programme to further enhance climate resilience.
“Water projects will be a key component of this programme. By addressing water scarcity, we can complement the reforestation efforts and ensure sustainable environmental conservation,” Dr. Aloo said.
A Collaborative Effort
The disbursement of funds marks a significant milestone in Homa Bay’s climate action agenda. With a clear focus on restoring degraded ecosystems, combating climate change, and empowering communities economically, the county is setting an example for locally-led environmental conservation.
As the programme progresses, the active involvement of local groups and the continued support from county and national governments will be crucial in achieving its ambitious goals.
