Colonel (Rtd), Cyrus Oguna, Government Spokesman, has stressed the importance of conserving the environment to mitigate the prolonged dry spells in some parts of the country.
Oguna, who was presided over relief food distribution exercises at Olokurto Ward in Narok North sub-county, stated that the country’s ongoing drought is due to environmental degradation caused by the cutting of trees.
We are experiencing drought across most of this country due to the fact that we have cut down trees and made it impossible for the vegetation to retain water. He said that every person is responsible for planting trees to increase forest cover.
Oguna pointed out that Maasai Mau forest conservation was a priority of the government because it benefits millions.
Water is vital for life. This is why the government has banned all human activity in the forest, and is still committed to conserving the great water catchment area, he stated.
Isaac Masinde, Narok County Commissioner, agreed with his remarks. He stated that the forestland will not be encroached on again under his watch.
To warn residents about illegal entry to forests, the government has already erected an electrical fence of 30 kilometers at the forest border.
Even evictees camping near the forestland in the hope of returning to it will not be allowed back. He said that the government is committed in conserving the environment using all means.
Samuel Ole Karia, Olokurto Member County Assembly (MCA), thanked the government and for preserving the mega water catchment land which has seen more rainfall in the area.
He also urged residents to continue planting trees in their homes, churches, and government institutions to increase forest cover.
In 2018/2019, more than 5, 000 families lived in the forest land. The government took over several hectares of land and evicted them.
It has been planting trees since then. Over a million tree seedlings have been planted in an effort to rehabilitate forest land.
By Ann Salaton
