NETFUND Spearheads Restoration of the Gitwe Wetlands, Kibiko Forest

In a momentous environmental endeavor, Mr. Samson Toniok, the CEO of NETFUND, led a multisectoral delegation comprising representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry, the Kenya Defense Forces, Kajiado and Kiambu counties, community forest associations, and the local community to restore the Gitwe Wetlands in Kibiko Forest.

The initiative is part of the National Ecosystem and Wetlands Restoration campaign that kicked off in the country following the inauguration of the National Tree Planting Day with a keen focus on attaining 30% tree cover in the country.

During the event, NETFUND donated over 2,000 assorted indigenous tree seedlings and bamboos to restore and rejuvenate the critical wetland that forms the source of various rivers including Mbagathi and Athi as well as promoting biodiversity. Going beyond, NETFUND made a profound commitment to adopt the Kibiko wetland for restoration and protection.

The adoption of the Gitwe wetland signifies a sustained dedication to sustainable management practices. NETFUND recognizes the significance of preserving and rehabilitating critical ecosystems to ensure their resilience and functionality. By assuming responsibility for the Gitwe wetland, NETFUND aims to play a central role in the conservation and protection of this vital natural resource.

Importantly, the collaborative spirit that characterized the event is testimony to NETFUND’s belief in the power of partnership in environmental conservation efforts. Partners that contributed to the exercise included; the Kenya Forest Service, community forest associations, and the Kenya Water Towers Agency. This collaborative effort ensures a holistic and well-coordinated approach to environmental conservation.

The partnership with these key stakeholders signifies a united front in the face of environmental challenges. The Kenya Forest Service brings its expertise in forestry management, while the Kenya Water Towers Agency contributes insights into water resource conservation. Together, they form a formidable alliance to guarantee the success of the conservation efforts undertaken in Kibigo Forest Station.

Addressing the audience during the tree growing event, NETFUND CEO commended the commitment of the Kerarapon community forest association for their dedication to forest protection. He promised to initiate a collaborative approach with the community to establish more tree nurseries, focusing not only on tree growing but also on offering alternative sources of livelihoods.

THE KENYA WATERSHED SERVICES IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME (KEWASIP): INSIDE THE COUNTRY’S AMBITIOUS LANDSCAPE RESTORATION INITIATIVE
UPDATES: TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP ON THE KENYA WATERSHEDS SERVICES IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMME (KEWASIP) EMBARKS ON A SCOPING MISSION