Katilu – March 21st, 2025 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Forests at RCEA Korinyang’ Secondary School in Katilu, Aroo Sub-county.

Celebrated every 21st March, this year’s theme “Forests and Food” highlights the crucial role forests play in food security, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking on behalf of County Executive for Tourism, Culture, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Director of Environment Phoebe Ekali, emphasized the significance of forests in an Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs) region like Turkana.

“Beyond providing shade, forests serve as sources of food, medicine, clean air, and water, contributing to the county’s resilience against climate change and desertification,” she said.

Ekali reiterated the county’s commitment to conserving natural resources as stated in the Governor’s sixth agenda which prioritizes the sustainable management of land, minerals, and natural resources.

She urged communities to desist from deforestation and charcoal burning practices that exacerbate environmental degradation and hinder climate adaptation efforts.

Addressing attendees, Acting Director of Natural Resources, Pauline Pusiye, outlined the county’s strategy to enhance forest cover through artificial forests and indigenous tree planting programs.

“Tree nurseries have been established to promote afforestation, with direct benefits such as employment opportunities, food security, and improved water supply,” she stated.

The county has planted 5,000 indigenous and fruit trees across the thirty wards, she said, in its reforestation efforts.

On his part, Director of Climate Change, George Emase, highlighted the Financial Locally-Led Climate Action (FLoCCA) projects undertaken by the county.

He reported that 33 climate resilience projects had been implemented, with initiatives in Turkana South and Aroo sub-counties such as the drilling of boreholes in Nabeye, Namakat, and Kakaali.

Also in attendance were senior county administration officials and department officers.

The event brought together key stakeholders including, Kenya Forestry Research Institute, National Environment Management Authority, Kenya Forest Service, Kerio Valley Development Authority, Kenya Wildlife Service, Water Resources Management Authority, BOMA Kenya, and the Kenya Red Cross Society.