Chief Administrative Secretary for Water and Sanitation Hon. Dr. Chris Wamalwa launches National Tree Planting Campaign

On April 13, 2023, in Nyandarua County, the Chief Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Hon. Dr. Chris Wamalwa, launched a national initiative for tree planting and restoration with the goal of planting more than 200,000 tree seedlings in the Sasumua Water Catchment, a region of the Aberdares.

The exerciseย is a part of the Ministry’s commitment to rebuild and safeguard the Aberdares catchment while putting in place water and sanitation infrastructure that is sustainable and climate resilient.

As one of the important players in the sustainable use of forests and water towers, the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation has decided to support a national tree-planting effort in keeping with the government’s plans to increase Kenya’s forest cover.

The Sasumua Water Catchment which is part of the Aberdares has also experienced deforestation and degradation over the years, leading to the loss of these essential ecosystem services. Increased human activities, such as logging and agricultural expansion, have taken a toll on this once lush and vibrant landscape.

Athi Water Works Development Agency in conjunction with the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Water Sector Trust Fund, Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency planted over 10,000 tree seedlings towards the conservation of the Sasumua Water Catchment.

These tree seedlings represent the hope for a greener and more sustainable future. They will serve as a legacy for future generations, providing shade, improving air and water quality, and supporting biodiversity. They will help to restore the natural balance of the ecosystem and protect the Sasumua Dam, which is a vital water source.

The CAS was accompanied by AWWDA CEO Eng. Michael M. Thuita MBS, Nairobi Water MD Eng. Nahashon Muguna, Upper Chania Water Users Association Chairman, CRWWDA Director, Managing Directors from Water Service Providers in Muranga and Kiambu, local administration among others.

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