Conservation Specialists Work Together to Safeguard South Nandi Forest While Improving Ecotourism Facilities
Momanyi stated that biodiversity protection in the county depends on two factors which include ongoing teamwork and continuous reforestation operations.
Conservation Secretary at the State Department for Wildlife, Dr. John Chumo. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Conservation stakeholders have stepped up initiatives aimed at safeguarding and restoring the ecologically significant South Nandi Forest as they recognize its vital role as a water catchment area and its potential to become an ecotourism site for the region.
The Conservation Secretary for the State Department for Wildlife Dr. John Chumo told participants about the forest’s role as a source of multiple streams that flow into River Yala during the tree planting event. The water sources sustain the livelihoods of people living in Nandi,
Vihiga, Kakamega, and Siaya counties according to his explanation.
Conservation Secretary at the State Department for Wildlife, Dr. John Chumo. Photo/Courtesy
Dr. Chumo emphasized that the presence of these streams underlines the forest’s importance to communities that rely on water originating from the upper catchment. The government will restore degraded forest areas through large-scale tree planting programs according to his statement which specified that indigenous tree species will receive priority for restoration purposes.
He also pointed out that South Nandi Forest is rich in biodiversity because it contains special and endangered species of birds, primates, reptiles, and butterflies which cannot be found in other locations. The forest holds natural resources which establish strong grounds for developing it into an ecotourism-based destination according to him.
Dr. Chumo further called for deliberate efforts to market the forest as part of a broader western Kenya tourism circuit. The tourist area needs to be promoted together with Bonchoke Game Reserve according to his statement because it would help increase visitor numbers and tourism revenue. According to his assessment tourism serves as a major force for economic growth in Kenya while the establishment of new tourist sites will enhance this economic benefit.
The tree planting event established a goal to plant 10,000 seedlings which has seen half of the total already planted. The tree planting for remaining trees will occur during the rainy season because this time frame ensures maximum survival success.
Nandi County Forest Conservator John Momanyi praised the initiative because it demonstrated strong cooperation among all participating government conservation agencies. He expressed appreciation for the collective effort in promoting environmental conservation through tree planting.
Momanyi stated that biodiversity protection in the county depends on two factors which include ongoing teamwork and continuous reforestation operations. He expressed confidence that such initiatives will help preserve the ecological integrity and economic value of South Nandi Forest for the benefit of current and future generations.
About Author
