NGPU June 21, 2024

Tree Planting at Itare Dam Catchment Area

By Jilopa K ezra and James Munyua

Deputy Governor H.E. David Kones today joined Cabinet Secretary for Water and Sanitation Zachariah Njeru and residents of Kuresoi North Sub-County in a tree planting exercise at the Itare Dam catchment area, where over 30,000 trees were planted.

This initiative is part of a broader campaign to meet the president’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, focusing on environmental restoration, particularly the preservation of the Itare Dam catchment area and local ecosystems.

Tree planting at the Itare Dam catchment area holds significant importance including environmental restoration which helps restore degraded land and promotes biodiversity. Trees play a crucial role in maintaining the water cycle. They enhance groundwater recharge, reduce surface runoff, and minimize soil erosion, thereby ensuring the sustainability of the Itare Dam and maintaining water quality.

Trees also help mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing the overall concentration of greenhouse. This supports the preservation of the Itare Dam catchment area and local ecosystems, maintaining ecological balance and supporting various forms of life.

In his remarks, CS Njeru assured residents that the long-stalled Itare Dam construction would resume within the next few months, with President Ruto expected to officiate the exercise. Discussions are also underway between County and National Governments to ensure that residents of Kuresoi North and South Sub-Counties gain access to clean and safe water.

Deputy Governor Kones highlighted the immense benefits of the project to the residents, including job opportunities and infrastructure development. He also challenged residents to continue planting more trees for environmental conservation.

Other leaders present included Principal Secretaries Julius Korir (Water and Sanitation) and Eng. Festus Ng’eno (State Department for Environment and Climate Change), Members of the National Assembly led by area MP Alfred Mutai, Central Rift Water Development Agency CEO Douglas Murei, and officials from other water agencies and dignitaries.