NGPU
November 22, 2023
Nakuru County Embraces Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy in Partnership with UNEP
Written by Jilopa K Ezra
Nakuru County’s commitment to sustainable practices received a significant boost as Dr. Nelson Maara, the Executive Member for Water, Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, hosted a consultative meeting with a team from the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP). Led by Rhoda Ndegwa, the UNEP team discussed the implementation of the Hybridized Smart Agriculture pilot project.
The innovative project aims to harness Nakuru County’s geothermal resources by drilling boreholes in hotspot areas. The produced steam, ranging between 90-100 degrees Celsius, will be utilized for milk pasteurization, benefitting local farmers. Following pasteurization, the cooled steam will be cascaded to support climate-smart agriculture among selected farmers. This integrated approach will empower farmers to engage in horticulture, aquaculture, greenhouse farming, and fodder cultivation.
The project’s design encompasses comprehensive elements such as feasibility studies, borehole drilling, equipment installation, solarization, and the establishment of demonstration farms. Public education initiatives will also be integral to ensure the community’s understanding and participation in the project.
Rhoda Ndegwa, expressing the significance of the project, drew a metaphorical connection to the water wheel. She highlighted how the water wheel, a historical invention harnessing water’s force, symbolizes the synergy between human innovation and nature’s power. The project exemplifies the delicate balance achievable between technology and the environment, embodying the enduring connection between human ingenuity and sustainable energy practices.
Renewable energy took center stage in the discussions, with Ndegwa emphasizing its superiority over non-renewable sources. The benefits of renewable energy include sustainability, significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, promotion of energy independence, job creation, and economic stability. In contrast, non-renewable sources are finite, environmentally damaging, and contribute to geopolitical dependencies and economic volatility.
The consultative meeting saw the participation of key stakeholders, including Chief Officer for Water and Sanitation Eng Margaret Kinyanjui, Director for Water and Sanitation Johnson Kamau, and environment officers from Nakuru County. The collaborative efforts between Nakuru County and UNEP underscore the region’s commitment to agricultural innovation and the adoption of sustainable, renewable energy practices, paving the way for a greener and more resilient future.
