Written by Elizabeth Wanjiku Benson
The Nakuru City Manager, Mr Gitau Thabanja, today held a consultative meeting with members of the Milimani West (KMC) Self Help Group, a community-based organisation working under the guidance of the Menengai Community Forest Association (MCFA). The meeting provided a platform for the group to present their initiatives focused on sustainable forest use, environmental conservation, and livelihood improvement within the Menengai area.
The group, comprising 20 active members from the Milimani West community, has been implementing various activities, including tree nursery ventures, beekeeping, and eco-tourism initiatives such as nature walks and the creation of picnic grounds. These efforts are aimed at promoting reforestation, supporting local livelihoods, and enhancing community engagement in forest conservation.
In their presentation, the group outlined several challenges affecting their progress, including inadequate washroom facilities, maintenance equipment, water supply, nursery supplies, and security fencing. They also emphasised the need for support in waste management, bee-keeping expansion, and continuous training to strengthen their community projects.
The City Manager acknowledged their efforts in contributing to the conservation of Menengai Forest and assured them of the County Government’s commitment to supporting community-driven environmental initiatives. He encouraged the group to apply for the County Enterprise Fund, which provides financial assistance to community organisations and youth and women’s groups to implement their projects.
He also urged the members to actively engage in the County’s budget-making process to ensure their community priorities are reflected in future development plans. Additionally, the City Manager committed to facilitating capacity-building programs to equip the group with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their projects effectively.
The meeting concluded with a joint understanding that sustainable forest management and community empowerment can be achieved through partnerships between the County Government and local self-help groups. The Milimani West (KMC) Self-Help Group expressed gratitude for the continued support and pledged to remain dedicated to its mission of conserving the environment and improving livelihoods within the Milimani West area.