WATER WORLD

The

WaterWorld KENYA’S CHAMPION FOR WATER, ENVIRONMENT & SANITATION ISSUES

OCTOBER, 2020

NO. 004

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Bamboo now Kenya’s new cash crop STORY ON PAGE 3

Farmers will earn up to Sh1.2 million per acre from mature bamboo

Floods in Narok Town

Climate change curricula to be introduced in schools Page 28

Herders turn cactus into fodder Page 13

Waste disposal guidelines amid Covid-19 Page 19

Time Kenya harvested lake water for food security Back Page

Environment and Forestry CS Keriako Tobiko and PS Dr Chris Kiptoo relishing the comfort of furniture made of bamboo tree as the country marked the World Bamboo Day at Michuki Park in Nairobi on September 18, 2020. Photo/Sammy Munoko

Why Solar heating programme collapsed When the government formulated regulations making i t m a n d a to r y fo r rea l e s t a te developers, home owners and institutions to install solar water heating systems in 2012, the aim was to reduce reliance on the national grid and encourage use of renewable energy.

However, the rules initiated by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) now rebranded into the

Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) were repealed

by Parliament two years ago following a public outcry throwing the plan into disarray.

MPs removed the mandatory Energy (Solar Water Heating) R e g u l a t i o n s i m p o s e d by t h e regulator in 2012 with a view to protecting owners of residential buildings.

Full Story on Page 2

Student wins praise for mega tree nursery Page 9

2 NEWS

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

“Only commercial buildings and huge residential projects such as the gated communities currently install solar water heaters. For other home builders, it is business as usual.

Why solar heating programme collapsed

By Ngugi Njoroge When the government formulated regulations making it mandatory for real estate developers, home owners and institutions to install solar water heating systems in 2012, the aim was to reduce reliance on the national grid and encourage use of renewable energy.

However, the rules initiated by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), now re-branded the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), were repealed by Parliament two years ago following a public outcry throwing the plan into disarray.

MPs removed the mandatory Energy (Solar Water Heating) Regulations imposed by the regulator in 2012 with a view to protecting owners of residential buildings who had protested the extra cost imposed on them.

Apart from owners of at least three-bedroom homes with hot water use exceeding one 100 litres per day, the rules also targeted educational institutions such as colleges and boarding schools (20 students), health institutions (hospitals, health centres and clinics), hotels and lodges, cafeterias and other eateries, hostels and laundries (20 kg of clothes).

To implement the regulations, the rules imposed a fine of up to Sh1 million or one year in prison.

Energy providers such as Kenya Power were also required to decline connecting buildings without solar

water heaters to the grid.

They averred that the regulations violated the Statutory Instruments Act, which concerns government’s delegated legislation, and that imposition of a fine for those who failed to comply was also bad in law since it was done without express authority provided for in the enabling legislation.

The home owners’ main grievance was that the cost of installing the solar water heaters, which cost between Sh125,000 to Sh2 million (depending on the vendor), was prohibitive.

Before the MPs’ intervention, the regulator had in 2018 started conducting compliance visits on buildings under construction and random spot checks on premises to ensure compliance with the regulations. This was after a six-month extension expired at the end of November 2017.

Apart from the parliamentary

Energy providers such as Kenya Power were also required to decline connecting buildings without solar water heaters to the grid.

Solar water heating equipment installed on the roof of a house. Government rules requiring homes and schools to install the facilities have been met with resistance. action, Nakuru-based developer Nalinkumar Shah had also secured an injunction against the rules arguing EPRA and Energy Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter had infringed on his right to own and use property.

“The Cabinet Secretary, via the Ministry of Energy, had not presented a memorandum providing justification for the rules before drafting, although they are going to put a heavy financial burden on the public,” he told Justice Anthony Ndungu.

The EPRA’s withdrawal of the mandatory requirement from homeowners to install the solar water heaters, however, left dealers with huge stocks they had no market for.

“Only commercial buildings and huge residential projects such as the gated communities currently install solar water heaters. For other home builders, it is business as usual.

I know of a dealer who had about seven million solar water heaters in their warehouses, which they are still struggling to find a market for,” said Henry Nyamboki, a Nairobi-based realtor.

The EPRA is still reworking the solar water heating law but even this will not offer much relief to the dealers since the residential homes provided a big chunk of the market.

The new regulations will exclude residential home owners and institu-

Protect Water Towers, urges Tobiko

By Staff Reporter Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko has vowed to restore all the degraded water towers in the country.

He has also promised to ensure that 35, 000 hectares of the Mau Complex land that has so far been reclaimed from land grabbers and illegal occupants is Gazetted.

“As at November 2019, the Ministry had managed to reclaim over 35, 000 hectares of land from illegal encroachments,” said the CS. During the period, illegal forest occupants were forcibly evicted from the water tower to pave way for planting of more indigenous trees that were fast facing extinction due to prolonged human exploitation for agricultural and commercial interests.

The Mau Conservator Franklin Misonge who accompanied Tobiko said rehabilitation of the forest is ongoing and over 200, 000 tree seedlings have been planted to fill gaps created by the logging.

They said the government is com-

Julius Malombe, Water Towers Agency Board Chairman. mitted to ensuring there is at least 10 percent forest cover to mitigate against possible drought escalation.

The Aberdare Range which acts as the main water tower for the populous Mt. Kenya region has equally been affected.

Roads infrastructural development along the edges of the forest is a threat because most trees are expected to be cut down.

A Sh30 billion Mau Mau road

will cut through Aberdare forest to link Murang’a and Naivasha via Nyandarua.

Researchers from the universities of Oxford, Nairobi and Amsterdam have expressed reservation against the project but Kenya Forest Service Conservator Dennis Kerengo says it will boost the region.

The Murang’a based conservator expressed optimism that the project will be of great importance and was not meant to degrade the environment.

“The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has given it a green light,” he said.

There will be two tarred sections cutting across the Aberdare forest while the existing Thika-Magumu highway in Kiambu set to be expanded will consume more of the forest.

The new sections commence from Kigumo and Gatanga constituencies through the forest to join Njabini in Nyandarua County.

Charcoal burning and timber harvesting has also been reported in the forest, hence depleting more forest cover.

Burning of charcoal is the main cause of forest fires that consume large tracts of indigenous forests whose trees take very many years to reach maturity. The Mau and Aberdare water towers will be cleared unless serious conservation measures are taken.

Human activities have been singled out as a major cause leading to degradation of the vast water catchment resources.

The Mau forest provides approximately 60 per cent of the water that drains into Lake Victoria and supports most of the livelihoods downstream.

tions and only cover the commercial building owners.

Early this year, then EPRA Director General Pavel Oimeke agreed that some of the concerns raised by home owners were justified.

“We found that if you have retired and spent all your money on your retirement home, you may not be financially able to install the solar water heater,” Oimeke said.

The EPRA concluded receiving public views on Draft Energy (Solar Photovoltaic Systems) Regulations 2019 but the process of finalising them appears to have been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Vihiga moots Disaster Bill Roy Hezron The Vihiga county government will enact a law to ensure proper management and handling of disasters.

The law will also ensure accountability of money allocated to handle various disasters that face the county.

The County Disaster Management Bill, 2020 Bill to be sponsored by Dominic Baraka, the Chairperson Environment, Water and Natural Resources Committee has, however, not been introduced in the County Assembly.

It is basically meant to establish an efficient structure for the management of disasters and emergencies; and to enhance the capacity of the county government to effectively manage the impacts of disasters and emergencies.

It will ensure necessary action to prevent or minimize threats to life, health and the environment from natural disasters and other emergencies.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Bamboo now a cash crop If next year all of us can turn up in large numbers to plant the crop in one single day, the target of 10 per cent forest cover will be attained.

- PS Kiptoo.

By Sammy Munoko

B

amboo has now been declared a cash crop in Kenya and the rush is on for farmers seeking to reap its huge profits.

From West Pokot in the North to Homa Bay in Nyanza, Kajiado in the South to Kilifi at the Coast, bamboo farming is fast becoming the new norm.

President Uhuru Kenyatta recently assented to the Bill which made the tree, previously classified as grass, into a cash crop.

The Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry Keriako Tobiko has also said controversy and debate on whether bamboo is a grass or a tree has now ended.

He clarified that following the approval by the President in September, now bamboo has been classified as the 16th cash crop in Kenya.

Many countries like the USA, China, South Africa, Australia and India, Indonesia, Pakistan and other Asian countries have a very advanced bamboo farming industry.

In India for example, yields remain steady all the year round with prices around Sh4,500 per tonne and farmers there say the crop is more profitable than rice and sugarcane.

Whereas Bamboo farming has been going on many for decades, Kenya appears to have been in a deep slumber despite its enormous resources of bamboo.

It is only last year when the Cabinet approved the National Bamboo Policy after it dawned on policy makers that most of the furniture imported into the country was made from bamboo.

Tobiko has now asked the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) to supply bamboo seedlings in large quantities.

Bamboo nurseries are to be established in various regions in Kenya to ease access by individuals and organisations.

“Kenya Forest Service and KEFRI should assist in registration and vetting of bamboo nurseries in order to have records of the nursery investors,” said Tobiko.

He further called on private investors to partner with farmers through training and planting of the

Environment and Forestry CS Keriako Tobiko (centre) flanked by Bamboo Association chairman Victor Mwanga (right, with watering can) and Julius Malombe, Water Towers Agency Chairman planting a tree to mark the World Bamboo Day on September 18th, 2020 at Michuki Park in Nairobi. Photo/Sammy Munoko crop.

“We must venture into massive small scale bamboo planting,” he added.

The policy paper developed last year that was approved by the Cabinet said Bamboo has proven its potential to contribute to achieving Kenya ‘Vision 2030 and the Big Four agenda.

Specifically, bamboo can directly contribute to “economic and social pillars” and flagship programmes with focus on, small and medium scale enterprise development to promote manufacturing, the document said.

It pointed out that the crop is good for rehabilitation of degraded land and landscapes, ensuring equity, eradicating poverty and supporting provision of affordable ecologically friendly housing.

Bamboo is a versatile resource which has a potential to contribute to creation of jobs, poverty eradication, economic development and environment management.

Bamboo has been an integral part of indigenous forests in Kenya and the Oldeania alpina, commonly known as highland bamboo, is the only indigenous species that grows naturally between the altitudes of 2,200m and 3,400m above sea level.

There are over 10, 000 documentedBamboo products cutting across subsistence use products, timber substitutes, fibre and textile, plastic composites, food and beverage, energy, health and cosmetic industry products.

Forests In late 1980s, bamboo forests covered more than 300,000 hectares but that has reduced to about 100,000Ha. Kenya has a total bamboo growing area of 133,273 hectares, concentrated in mountain ranges and forest areas managed by the national government.

Aberdare Range, Mau Forest, Mount Kenya, Mount Elgon and Cherangany Hills have 50,038 ha, 30,196 ha, 35,966 ha 14,341 and 8,180 hectares respectively.

Counties Bamboo growing has since the 1980s caught up in many counties such as Migori, Vihiga, Busia, Homa Bay, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Kirinyaga, Kitui, Laikipia, Nyandarua, Embu and Tharaka Nithi.

In these counties, bamboo is grown as a crop on the farms though not on a large scale.

In Migori and Homa Bay, initiatives are being undertaken to promote growing of bamboo and value-addition as an alternative crop and livelihood strategy for tobacco smallholder farmers.

A fully-fledged nursery for producing Bamboo seedlings has been established in Rongo Sub-County in Migori County and the same is happening in other parts of the country.

By the year 2000, an estimated 25 million bamboo poles were harvested annually mainly from gazetted forests.

They were used for fencing, scaffolding, and construction of houses especially in rural areas.

Bamboo splits are used for producing tea picking baskets, farm and household baskets, while communities living around Mount Elgon eat bamboo shoots as a delicacy.

Bamboo poles, furniture, handicrafts and seedlings are the current top products from bamboo in the lo-

cal market.

Kenya is a negligible player in bamboo trade whose imports and exports account for 0.06% and 0.02% respectively of the global trade.

Between 2009 and 2013, Kenya imported bamboo and rattan products worth USD 0.8 million (Sh86.8 million) and exported products valued at USD 0.27 million (Sh29.3 million).

The major products imported were bamboo flooring tiles, plywood and furniture.

Despite this low rate of trade in bamboo, there is a great potential for improving export trade and at the same time reducing import of bamboo products.

That will also enable the country to improve on balance of trade with other countries which are currently exporting bamboo products into Kenya.

The Bamboo Association chairman Victor Mwanga petitioned Parliament to classify bamboo as a cash crop and finally got full backing from the President who assented the Bill.

Speaking at Michuki Park in Nairobi while marking the World Bamboo Day under the theme “Sustaining Kenya the bamboo way, Tobiko said logistical issues must be addressed by stakeholders.

That is to ensure bamboo seedlings are cheaper and available all over Kenya because the crop can survive in all regions.

“The bamboo policy will address the entire value chain of bamboo commercialization in the country,” he said.

Bamboo takes a minimum of three years to mature after being planted then shoots begin to emerge.

Many Kenyans are known to plant bamboos for ornamental value, home beauty and construction projects.

Environment Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo is optimistic that Kenya can be a net supplier of toothpicks if bamboo farming is scaled up.

NEWS 3

Costs, benefits of bamboo farming

By Staff Reporter Bamboo farming is popular in China and the US where it is grown for medicinal, ornamental purposes and feeding of panda.

In Kenya, bamboo farming is peaking with potential demand coming from construction companies, landscapers and even beer manufacturers If you were to plant bamboo on a one-acre piece of land, you would need an estimate of Sh135,000.

A total of 200 bamboo seedlings at Sh200, which totals to Sh40,000, Sh25,000 for tilling land and labour, Sh10,000 for fungicides, Sh50,000 for transport and harvesting and Sh10,000 for other expenses.

How much can you expect in return?

Each bamboo plantlet produces multiple shoots during its lifetime. For example, a young plant may produce three shoots within two months.

Next season, those three shoots plus the mother plant may produce three shoots each and so on. Fast-forward four years, the single plant you planted will have produced sixty canes stretching up to thirty feet in height.

Should each pole be sold at a throw-away-price of Sh100, each plant will give you Sh6,000.

If you multiply Sh6,000 by the number of shoots in your farm, it will be Sh6,000x200 which toals to Sh1,200,000.The only disadvantage with bamboo plants would be that they are only commercially useful from year four to year six after planting.

Is there a ready market for bamboo in Kenya ?

While the market is available, you may have to do a bit of marketing just to create sustainable demand for your product.

The three years that you would have to wait for the crop to mature should be enough for you to create a buzz around your farm so that you are assured of earning from your sweat when the day of harvest arrives.

Apart from direct marketing, you can get a little innovative to create and sell bamboo products.

Examples of products you can produce and sell to a ready-market include bamboo matchsticks, toothpicks, bamboo charcoal or even bamboo beer. You can also create nice art products with it and start selling to individuals and corporate entities in your area.

Environment PS Dr.Chris Kiptoo.

4 ENVIRONMENT

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Swelling Rift Valley lakes visit misery on residents Cenral Rift Valley is witnessing severe environmental disasters wrought by nature in recent times.

Both human beings and animals around lakes Baringo, Naivasha and Bogoria have been on the receiving end ever since the onset of the long rains.

Marigat in Baringo South constituency has registered a massive loss of crops from the floods that have also disrupted social life.

Permanent and seasonal rivers feeding lakes Baringo and Bogoria have witnessed an increase in the annual discharge of water as a result of frequent precipitation.

Territories Residents living around lakes Baringo and Bogoria are bowing to the dictates of the water bodies that continue claiming and conquering new territories.

Together with the surging shorelines, mosquitoes now breed in billions while crocodiles and hippos roam villages declaring to all who is the master in the duel of man versus nature.

Residents of Salabani Location in Baringo South and Loruk trading centre in Baringo North have received very harsh and unwelcome treatment from the acts of nature.

Apart from people being displaced from their homes, many public amenities like schools, cattle dips, dispensaries and trading centres are fast becoming part of lake sediment.

They remain in total darkness and risk being swallowed by the lake and later to be discovered by the next generation of marine archaeologists.

Affected Human beings in the affected regions have the ready option of fleeing to higher grounds, a vivid reminder of the biblical floods, only that in the case of the Baringo, man is only trying to save himself and his livestock but not the wildlife.

Apart from floods, the Mathenge tree has continued to be a menace for farmers in the area.

According to Richard Chepchome from Baringo North, the Mathenge tree was introduced to Baringo through the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) programme, purposely to curb erosion and provide

Children wade through floods in Loruk near Lake Baringo recently. Photo/Talarus Chesang. forest cover in the Ilchamus flats and Tugen Hills.

“I worked for Food and Agriculture Organisation between 1983-1988 and visited Australia to see how best the tree could stop sheet erosion and provide cover for the bare lands,” said Chepchome.

However, Chepchome dismissed claims that the tree was behind the flooding and the surging of lakes within Marigat, a view he shares with Walter Tanui, the Water Resource Management Authority (WARMA) Manager Baringo Sub-Region.

Permanent and seasonal rivers feeding lakes Baringo and Bogoria have witnessed an increase in the annual discharge of water as a result of frequent precipitation.

Flooding “No one exactly knows why there is so much flooding or rise of water levels in Baringo lakes because there are many unproven scientific theories around,” stated Tanui.

One of the reasons given is siltation but somewhere in Loruk an X

WATER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Athi Water Works to increase supply

By Staff Reporter

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THE WATER WORLD SEPTEMBER, 2020

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Mamo named NEMA Director General SOLAR SYSTEM

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The Board of Directors of National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has officially announced the appointment of Mamo Boru Mamo (pictured) as the Director General.

NEMA Board Chairman John O. Konchellah said the appointment took effect from August 13, 2020.

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Mamo Boru Mamo as the incoming Director General of NEMA. The appointment takes effect following a competitive process where he emerged as the top candidate in the interview,” said Konchellah.

Mamo has over 20 years’ experience in the public service with 16 years’ experience at NEMA.

he

Athi Water Works Development Agency is set to drill an additional 100 boreholes to supply 22.6 million litres of water in Nairobi and neighbouring counties.

An estimated 1.2 million residents are set to benefit from the project free of charge.

The phase II drilling project traverses Nairobi, Murang’a, Kiambu, Kajiado and Machakos counties.

Nairobi County will receive an estimated 11,353,000 litres from 60 boreholes which will benefit residents of Huruma, Shauri Moyo, Jericho, Makadara, Dandora, Korogocho, Kibarage, Kangemi, Kayole, Embakasi, Kasarani, Mathare, Muthurwa, Kibera, Kawangware, Ruai, Githurai, Kamae, Industrial Area

and Makongeni.

Demand for water in the capital city currently stands at 810,000 cubic metres against daily supply of 550, 000 cubic metres.

Kiambu and Murang’a have been allocated 13 boreholes each while Kajiado and Machakos counties have 14 each.

The phase II project commenced in July and is expected to address perennial water shortages in the counties.

Phase I of the access to free water commenced in April and supplied 14.8 million litres daily to 750,000 residents.

The project is a big boost during the Covid-19 pandemic that requires plenty of water to contain spread of the virus through constant sanitation as directed by the Ministry of Health.

old man claims that the Lake Baringo is just out to reclaim the boundaries she ceded to the dry lands back in the year 1962.

Tanui says that is not true because no researcher has conducted a study to reach that conclusion.

“Global climatic changes have been advanced to explain the phenomenon, but we are still looking forward to getting factual information from the experts,’’ said Tanui.

Baringo Deputy Governor Jacob Chepkwony, who is the chairman County Disaster and Emergency Management Plan, has appealed for a long lasting solution from the national government to end the floods problem in Baringo.

Danger lurks in lakes Baringo and Bogoria, he said, adding that there is need for a scientific approach to deal with the natural disasters and the rise of water volumes in the lakes.

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THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

NEWS 5

NEWS FEATURE

Lives at risk as Mtopanga river gets toxic with rising pollution

By Hilton Mwabili Over the decades, Thomas Omondi,49, a seasoned beach operator at Jomo Kenyatta Public Beach popularly known as pirates, has witnessed brazen sea pollution as the Mtopanga River empties its effluent into the Indian Ocean via the Mtopanga creek.

On ordinary days it is difficult to notice where the sea connects to the creek which appears to give the Ocean a wide berth as a ridge of sand separates the two.

According to Omondi, the river and the ocean connect making an “interesting exchange flow” thrice per year mostly in April, June or July and December.

During this time, mostly during high tide, Omondi says the ocean and the river seem to push and pull each other in turns.

“Usually the river pulls ocean water in through the deeper part of the channel for almost 1.5 or 2 kilometres and sends a mixture of ocean and river water back to the ocean in a surface flow. This exchange flow forms a very interesting feature which can be useful “I will lead for students on educational tours to the Coast,” he explains. a team to But sadly, he says the exchange carry out the invites immense pollution as the river pours all sorts of dirt into the sea.

Thomas Omondi and Martin Wabule of Mtopanga River Conservation Community Based assessment of When you follow the Mtopanga Organisation (CBO) participate in a clean-up exercise at Mtopanga Creek. Waste dumped the river before River upstream, one fails to discern in the creek finds its way into the Indian Ocean. the difference between the river and the regeneration an open sewer. exercise begins It is defined by a flowing murk clogged by assortment of litter. The of turtles and report to the officers of Development in the Indian Ocean proposed in the plan are rehabilitating and in the dirty water which sips under a bubbling Marine Park.

(CORDIO) East Africa indicates that Mama Ngina, Uhuru garden and Fort process bring on layer of litter is dark and at times turns Adjacent to the creek are mountains Kenya’s beaches are littered with Jesus and Kenyatta public beach. into thick sludge, made up of a mixture of all sorts of waste retrieved from plastic and other floating waste.

However, there has been nothing board Technical of raw sewage. the river.

The study report indicated that on the ground to show in terms of University of Downstream beyond the estates, the They include plastic bottles, used national campaigns are needed to progress. river continues, crossing the Mombasacondoms, needles and syringes, glass mobilize the country and return Again, under the proposed Mombasa to Malindi road, ending at the creek and bottles, household equipment and other beaches to a clean state.

2020/2021 budget the county has treat the water eventually into the Indian Ocean. pollutants.

It states: “Reducing waste should allocated Sh1 billion to the department For the last seven years, Omondi in phases – Nato be done by building better waste of environment representing seven has volunteered in the clean-up of the Data sheet management systems and proper per cent of the entire county budget river in an effort to save marine life.

“We have a data sheet where we waste collection. Youth and cottage of Sh14.6 billion.

“I am a lover of nature since I was record all the waste retrieved from the industries should be promoted for The move has sparked fury from a a child. In school I was a member of the analyzed the dangers involved. river,” the site manager says. waste collection that can turn the section of residents on grounds that the Wildlife club.Whenever I see this kind of That, Webule says would help prioritize However, they say their task is waste into useful products for local department had over the years fallen pollution it disturbs me and so I started their roles in the clean-up exercise and made difficult by continued dumping sale and reuse.” short of expectations in discharging cleaning the river voluntarily,” he says. help them execute their duties with upstream.

I n t h e C o u n t y A n n u a l its mandate.

The beach operator adds that a Senior more vigour.

“We plan to start planting Development Plan 2017/2018 Contacted, County Executive Warden who was in charge of Mombasa “We realized that some of the waste mangroves around the river and mount Mombasa Governor Hassan Committe Member (CECM) for Marine Park Jane Gitau was the first to was responsible for killing of important a giant sieve to trap solid wastes, ” Joho’s administration had planned environment, waste management introduce him to the cleaning of the river. marine life like turtles, crabs and fish explains Omondi. rehabilitation of public parks and and energy, Dr Godffery Nyongesa In 2014, alongside a group of other which were dying and in fact it was A recent study by a Kenya based beaches at an estimated cost of Sh Nato blamed residents, he said, are youths, they formed Mtopanga River like almost nobody cared,” Webule marine ecosystems organisation 20 million. notorious for directing sewer lines into Conservation Community Based said.Sometimes they find carcasses Coastal Oceans Research and Among the activities that were the river but was quick to disclose the Organization (CBO) where he took county’s “elaborate plan of action to the position of site manager. regenerate the river.”

“The fact that I live around here has Nato promised that the regeneration really helped me understand the process was to begin before the end importance and the problems of the of July. river,” he noted. Omondi says after According to the executive, the registering the CBO they started exercise will see residents who have surveying the river all the way to its encroached riperian land evicted and source at Nguu Tatu hills where they the sewer lines disconnected. established challenges that bog it down.

“We are planning to map out all the “We realized that the river had almost sensitive areas of the river before we turned into a sewage conduit because embark on the exercise. I will lead a of continued dumping by residents team to carry out the assessment of upstream,” Omondi explains.The the river before the exercise begins.

CBO’s project co-ordinator Martin In the process we are going to bring Wabule says the organisation’s core on board Technical University of mandate is to ensure that the estuary is Mombasa to treat the water in phases,” cleaned after establishing that most of explained Nato, adding that the the waste coming from the river was exercise will involve the departments posing a threat to marine life. of Environment, Transport and Water They compiled data on the type of waste and Sanitation as well as the youth swept into the ocean by the river and Single-use plastic ban directive seeks to ensure a cleaner environment for select protected groups. areas in the country.

6 WATER PROJECTS

Ndakaini tunnel project delayed The Northern Water Collector Tunnel in Murang’a county that was earmarked for completion

by March this year is still facing challenges.

The project was a few years ago opposed by opposition and local politicians among them ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Construction, however, continued but is yet to be completed due to compensation wrangles by land owners.

More than 500 families in Gatundu North are up in arms because they have allegedly not been compensated for land and property that was cleared to create room for the project.

Nairobi residents will, therefore, have to wait longer to benefit from the water supply project.

The project includes construction of a 12 km long water transferee tunnel intercepting three rivers to the north of Nairobi and transferring the water to Ndakaini Dam, the main source for Nairobi.

The four metre diameter, bulk water transfer tunnel is connected to Maragua, Gikigie and Irati rivers.

The project commenced in February 2015 and is expected to increase the dam water capacity by 140 million litres of water per day.

Athi Water Chief Executive Officer Michael Thuita says the project will transfer water across rugged terrain.

“Some places have different heights and, therefore, it would be a challenge to pump the water up and down unlike the tunnel which can pump and transport across all terrains,” said the CEO. China Gezhouba Group Company is undertaking the project under the supervision of the Athi Water Services Board.

-Our Reporter

Gatundu water project resumes amid protests A contractor has resumed work at the Sh24 billion Karimenu II Dam in Gatundu, Kiambu County despite protests by land owners.

The excavation works resumed despite the resistance of some residents of Gatundu North in Kiambu County over unsettled compensation claims.

The works had been ongoing since April last year but residents accused the contractor of encroaching on their ancestral land without full compensation.

The residents also protested during phase I of the construction, and ejected workers from the construction site.

The dam is expected to supply water residents of Thika, Juja Ruiru, Nairobi and surrounding areas.

The Karimenu II Dam project is funded jointly by the Kenyan Government and China Exim Bank and implemented by International Holding Corporation and Shanghai Municipal Engineering Design Institute.

The dam sits on a 600 acre piece of land with a capacity of 26,540,000 cubic metres and is expected to be completed by December this year.

It will supply 70,000 cubic metres of clean water for domestic, agricultural and commercial use.

-Correspondent

The Karimenu Dam under construction.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

MAKUENI

Thwake Dam to be ready in December

By Our Reporter

T

he construction of Sh82 billion Thwake Dam meant to serve Kitui and Makueni County residents is set to be finalized by the end of this year.

The project is currently at 32 per cent but ought to be at 37 per cent, the delay having been occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic that resulted in reduction of site workers to meet the physical distancing requirement.

“We had to reduce the number of workers on site from 1,200 down to 700 in line with the Ministry of Health guidelines to contain the spread of the virus,” said Apopo Lentana of China Ghezouba Company, the contractor.

He said engineers are undertaking major works including establishment of two mega tunnels to divert Athi River water to dry land for excavation works on the river bed.

“We are currently at 32 per cent and we will compensate on lost time during this period wasted due to the pandemic,” he said.

To adhere to safety measures,the contractor noted that routine tests are being undertaken on their workers and safety precautions undertaken including issuance of face masks and screening.

One tunnel is now in progress at 280 metres and is expected to be 700 metres when completed.

Change course The two tunnels will be used as

substitute water ways where Athi River will change course before later joining the original path to the Indian Ocean.

The project is jointly funded by the Kenyan Government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) implementable in four phases at a cost of Sh81.89 billion.

The National Government will invest Sh59.95 billion in the project while AfDB will cover the remaining Sh21.94 billion.

Phase I involves construction of 87

metre high dam wall, phase II involves installation of a hydro power generator plant, phase III the installation of water supply, sanitation, and waste water infrastructure and finally phase IV involves development of the irrigation component.

The dam will provide water for domestic, irrigation, hydropower as well as industrial activities in the two counties.

Water, Sanitation and Irrigation CS Sicily Kariuki and Makueni County Commissioner Mohammed Maalim, among others, during a tour of Thwake Dam project in Makueni. Photo/Lydia Ngoolo

BUSIA

7,000 in Teso to benefit from 50,000-litre tank

By Godfrey Wamalwa Over 7,000 residents of Angurai South Ward are set to benefit from an improved water supply following the installation of a 50,000-litre elevated water storage tank at Kakapel, Teso North Sub County.

Water stored in the steel tank will be pumped f r o m A k i b u i b o r eh o l e which currently serves 70 households.

The Sh10 million project, a collaborative effort between the County Government of Busia and the World Vision, will provide a lasting solution to water challenges in the ward.

Speaking after a joint inspection of the project together with the Akibui Wa t e r M a n a g e m e n t Committee, the County Chief Officer for Water and Irrigation, upper region, Hellen Mukanda lauded support from World Vision and called on various water committees to work towards ensuring sustainability of the project.

“All the water kiosks in this area are already functional and so the people are already accessing water before we extend the pipelines to the homesteads,” she said.

The Deputy Sub County Water Officer, Simeon Esamai said the new water pump will increase the amount of water distributed from 10,000 to 14,000 litres per hour.

“Water is also going

to be distributed from this point to Akichelesit Primary school and Akichelesit dispensary,” he said.

The officers said the pipelines will also be extended to Aedomoru and its environs as they oversaw the repair of various sections of the main line which had previously been destroyed due to road works, floods and theft of GI pipes.

Officials inspect repair of a water supply main line which had been destroyed by floods and road works in Angurai South Ward.

NEMA shuts down Kitui County abattoir

By Boniface Mulu The main abattoir in Kitui County has been shut down by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for operating without the effluent discharge licence (EDL).

Shutting down the county government owned facility, the NEMA Kitui County Director Njoki Mukiri warned against reopening of the abattoir before it has acquired the EDL from her office.

“The abattoir will remain closed until they get the EDL as per the law because the waste water flows to the environment directly without control and we as the NEMA can’t allow that,” she warned.

NE MA o ff i c i a l s t o u r e d Mutomo market where they closed a cottage and a filling station for operating without the EDL. At Kalundu market, they ordered the demolition of a section of a guest house encroaching on riparian land.

She said anyone operating a bio-digester or water systems should have the EDL, even when the effluent is in a soak-pit.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

NEWS 7

SPECIAL FEATURE

“ Elders’ flashback into the history of Gurusalal Falls takes the current generation down memory lane to the colonial times.

Mission to rewrite sad tale of Eldama Ravine waterfall

By Jeremiah Chamakany A mission to reclaim a lost paradise in Eldama Ravine town in Baringo County is on course.

O l d v i s i t o r s to Eldama Ravine town in Baringo County will remember Gurusalal, a beautiful and a breathtaking waterfall on the Perkera River.

The mini look-alike of Nyahururu’s Thompson Falls was a breathtaking site for local residents and visitors who went there to while away their afternoons.

Eldama Ravine Member of County Assembly Julius Ngotie now says plans to reclaim and develop the tourist attraction are in the pipeline.

A colony of colobus monkeys, other small primates and rare bird species like the hornbill once had permanent homes at the waterfall, but they are no more, having been driven away by human activities.

What remains of this once beautiful sanctuary is nothing but sad tales, a narrative that is set to change by next year.

“Through the County Integrated Development Plan, we have engaged Eldama Ravine residents public participation,” stated Ngotie.

Funding will now be allocated to the Gurusalal Valley reclamation project to make it a vibrant economic powerhouse with a capacity to employ hundreds of youths through the hospitality industry.

Ngotie said they will borrow heavily from what is happening around Thompson’s Falls in Nyahururu.

“We will plant trees and ensure that we reclaim and safeguard the natural habitat and by so doing, our youth will be able to invest in small businesses around the falls that is now a haven for Chang;aa production,” noted Ngotie.

A flashback into the history of Gurusal takes us all the way back to colonial times.

Senior Rtd. Chief Pius Lebelio of Eldama Ravine points out that unlike colonial times when Gurusalal was a paradise in her own right, the valley is currently a very disturbing place in Koibatek.

Lebelio recounts a very disturbing incident when a teenage girl walked all the way from Maji Mazuri about 10 kilometres away to commit suicide by jumping into the deep waterfall from the cliff.

“This valley would have been a wonderful tourist attraction but that is not the case. It once teemed with a diversity of plants and animals, tall trees and bush vines that were a sight to behold that is no more,” reminisced Lebelio.

Looking back and indulging in enjoyable recollection of past events that took place at Gurusulal, Lebelio sadly murmurs that the good old days may never return.

The retired officer says: “Those days are gone, maybe forever because Gurusulal is now a place where people go to die either by jumping down the cliff or through slow death which comes by drinking illicit alcohol brewed at the valley.”

About 10 to 15 cases of suicide were committed in the Gurusalal valley during his time in office.

Stolen livestock are also slaughtered in Gurusulal even during the day as the illegal chang’aa manufacturing continues unabated.

According to Aron Taalam , one of the locals living near the valley, children who like crying at night are told to shut up or they will be taken to Gurusalal valley where troubled people meet their death or drown their sorrows in alcohol.

“Many suicide victims spend their time here alone, and in silence gazing at the falling waters and finally gather the courage of jumping to their deaths down the cliff where their spirits remain lingering,’’ said Taalam with fear written in his eyes.

W h e n T h e Wa t e r Wo r l d visited the valley in company of a local guide, a pungent smell of alcohol and the wet ash hit our noses as two middle-aged men with dreadlocks looked at us suspiciously from across the valley.

They gave it a Nubian name ‘Gurusa-lal’, which actually means a ‘silent river’ because children could watch tadpoles playing in the clear water and see dragon flies making their somersaults in celebration of God’s perfect Eden .

Gurusalal Falls in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County. Unlike the colonial times when the area was a paradise, it is currently a very disturbing place where people go to commit suicide.

“They think we are the police,’’ our guide said, as I learned that the two are some well known residents of the valley.

They live here and love the valley because it is here that they are guaranteed of satisfying their drug addiction after chopping trees for firewood to supply the chang’aa boilers,” said Taalam.

There is a lot of graffiti on the rocks, mostly names of residents who committed suicide by jumping into the waterfall.

According to the guide, residents believe that the spirits of the dead are alive in the valley.

Residents of nearby ShauriYako slums have narratives about the spirits of the dead in Gurusulal exchanging some unprintable obscenities at night.

They say the voices sound very much like an angry bunch of drunkards who become more audible when it’s raining.

Cigarette butts and abandoned women underwear are easy to spot when you take a stroll inside the valley.

You can also get a chance to read a list of names belonging to the ‘heroes’ who courageously met their untimely deaths by plunging down the cliff.

In the recent national campaign to fight illicit brews, Gurusalal was the only place where police feared to conduct raids, until there was a big enough crowd of local people to accompany them.

HIGHLIGHTS Plans to reclaim the mini look-alike of Nyahururu Thomson’s Falls are underway.

The breathtaking site used to attract hordes of locals and visitors to while away afternoons.

Unlike in the past, it is currently a source of sad tales of how people journey to he scenic site to commit suicide.

Resolution in the pipeline to reclaim and develop the tourist attraction site that in the past used to harbour a colony of colobus monkeys, rare bird species like the hornbill which once had permanent homes at the waterfall.

According to an elder Abdul Musa who served as a Councillor for Eldama Ravine in the former County Council of Koibatek, the name Gurusulal is from the Nubian community who were among the early inhabitants of Eldama Ravine town.

Musa said Nubians settled at the present day Kabonyony estate which borders the Perkera River,

Eldama Ravine MCA Julius Kimutai Ngotie having served as porters during the colonial days.

They gave it a Nubian name ‘Gurusa-lal’, which actually means a ‘silent river’ because children could watch tadpoles playing in the clear water and see dragon flies making their somersaults in celebration of God’s perfect Eden .

“It should be turned into an investment to tap money through tourism by constructing a big hotel which can bring in tourists and create jobs to hundreds of youths in Baringo,” said Musa, Ngotie says they are planning to fence off the valley and plant thousands of trees which would attract back colonies of Colubus monkeys and other wildlife which in turn, would attract tourists.

8 WATER PROJECTS

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Thiba dam to double rice production

By Kamundia Muriithi Thiba dam project that is nearing completion will increase rice production in the country by 200,000 metric tonnes.

Wa t e r f r o m t h e d a m i n Kirinyaga County will be used by local farmers to put an additional 10,000 acres of rice crop under irrigation in Mwea.

The Sh20 billion project funded by the national government and Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) will also provide sufficient water for double cropping in the entire Mwea Irrigation Scheme.

Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki who toured the project, urged the contractors to expedite its construction.

The CS applauded the good work done since the project started in 2018, but raised concern that it may not be ready on time.

In a media briefing at the dam site in Rukenya area of Gichugu constituency. she urged

the contractor and the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) to cover lost time and ensure the project is delivered by June next year “I have come to ensure we fast-track the project and urge the contractor and NIA to adopt a three shift model so that they can deliver it as planned by June, 2021,” stated Kariuki.

She asked them to employ more local youths while guaranteeing quality of the work for the benefit of the host community and for the whole country to get more rice.

The CS, who also inspected the ongoing works at Mwea Canal project, said the two projects are part of the government’s commitment to meeting its Big 4 agenda on food security.

The project was launched

by President Uhuru Kenyatta in November 2018 and was meant to be completed in three years.

But last year workers on the project slowed down the works after the government failed to remit monthly dues for over six months which contributed to the

Government officials inspecting the Thiba Dam project. project lagging behind schedule.

Kariuki instructed the Kirinyaga County Commissioner Jim Njoka to maintain regular monitoring of the construction progress of the project and keep her office updated.

Kenya rice farmers produce

about 200,000 metric tonnes of the commodity annually, with the Mwea Irrigation Scheme accounting for 80 percent.

The country imports more than a third of the 750 metric tons of rice consumed annually, but the construction of Thiba dam is

expected to double crop production from next year.

The mega dam on completion, will be 40 metres tall, 1km long and is expected to have a holding capacity of 15 million cubic metres.

Kitui: Munya commissions water pan

By Boniface Mulu Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya has commissioned the Kwa Isiki water pan in Mbitini, Kitui County.

The 50,540 cubic metres dam

will serve approximatly 30,000 community people living around the water in Kisasi District.

The project was funded by the National Agricultural and Rural Inclusive Growth Project (NARIGIP) in partnership with the Kitui County government at a cost of Sh26 million.

X

NARIGIP is under the Kenya’s Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Development Ministry.

Speaking at the function, Kitui County Governor, Charity Kaluki Ngilu said the county will continue working with the national government for the benefit of local people.

CS Agriculture, Peter Munya.

THE WATER WORLD, SEPTEMBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water, Environment & Sanitation Issues

Kiwash to complete Busia projects

By Godfrey Wamalwa The Kenya Integrated Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (KIWASH) agency has made a comeback to Busia County after nearly a year’s absence.

The organisation had been working in the county since 2016, executing many projects in the water and sanitation sector before exiting late last year after its contract expired.

County Executive Committee Member Water, Environment, Irrigation and National Resources Isaac Alukwe said KIWASH was given another one year contract to complete the projects they left.

Alukwe also revealed that the World Bank had given a soft grant to Busia Water and Sewerage Services Company (BUWASSCO) to boost fight against Covid-19.

He said Kenya Red Cross will also help to alleviate challenges created by recent floods in Budalangi and sections of Samia.

BUWASSCO has also received water treatment chemicals worth Sh1.4 million from UNICEF towards the fight against Covid-19.

Also present was the L&T

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Busia Governor, Sospeter Ojaamong.

Company Construction Business Development Manager for East Aftica Region, Sanjeev Kumar Dubey who said the firm specializes in water and Effluent Treatment.

He noted that Busia will join Tanzania and four other African countries that have injected investments in the water sector.

Chief Officer Water and Irrigation Lower Region, George Tom Ekisa said the county government will form a team to help identify viable investment opportunities for L&T as it enters the Kenyan market.

Water and Irrigation Chief Officers Upper Region Hellen Mukanda urged the firm to consider investment opportunities in the irrigation sector.

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THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

ENVIRONMENT 9

SPECIAL FEATURE

Donald Kiptoo established a tree nursery when he was only 11 years old at Kokwet village in Kituro Location, Baringo County and has never looked back.

By Kipturgut Enock

‘

I embarked on full time operations at the tree nursery after schools closed because of the Covid-19 pandemic

-Kiptoo

Donald Kiptoo at his tree nursery.

Kiptoo shows a hose pipe donated to him by Baringo Central MP Joshua Kandie.

Student lauded for mega tree nursery t a tender age of 20, Donald A Kiptoo is already a seasoned agro-forestry practitioner because

chores and my business is not easy because it requires a lot of hard work to be successful,” he stated He has used proceeds from selling seedlings to pay school fees, electricity installation and the construction of a semi-permanent house which is almost complete.

The house comprises two bed rooms and a sitting room that has cost Sh85, 000 so far still and requires Sh50,000 to complete.

Among the challenges the young entrepreneur has encountered in his business are the hiring of casual labourers to collect water from the river.

Others include transportation of the seedlings to selling points and customers’ homes during deliveries and lack of a water storage tank.

Shortage of planting containers following the ban of polythene bags by the government is also a big hindrance and he wants the government to provide an alternative.

He is grateful to Baringo Central Member of Parliament Joshua Kandie who visited his tree nursery in August to donate a 100 metre hose pipe for pumping water from the nearby river.

“Kandie promised to buy me a 10,000-litre plastic tank for water storage to be used during the dry season,” he said.

During the visist, Kandie promised to empower any youth who is ready to engage in self-employment.

“Many youths are taking illicit brews during the Covid-19 pandemic, while others remain idle, engaging

of the enormous contribution to tree planting in the North and Central Rift Valley region.

He beat all odds to establish a tree nursery when he was only 11 years old at Kokwet village in Kituro Location, Baringo County and has never looked back.

He had been working on his tree nursery during school holidays over the years but engaged in full time operation after schools closed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Form Four student at Kapsergong Secondary School embarked fully on his small tree nursery he started in 2011 with 100 seedlings.

The seedlings growing business he started on small plot has grown into a formidable business enterprise that has attracted farmers from Baringo, Nakuru, Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu counties.

Kiptoo was busy planting seedlings with the assistance of his sister who was weeding when The Water World visited him at his father’s farm.

He is the second born and the only son in a family of six. His parents are small scale farmers.

Elated and hardworking, the student narrated how he developed interest in tree nursery business with the help of his parents.

“When I was eight years old, my parents used to take me to Child Fund Foundation and Cheptebo Rural Development tree nurseries Baringo and Elgeyo Marakwet counties respectively,” said Kiptoo.

It is from those visits that his love for trees and an interest in establish his own tree nursery developed after learning names of different varieties of tree species and their value.

He decided to start a tree nursery for cypress, Grevillea, Pines and fruits like papaws and passion among others.

Apart from trees, he also planted ornamental and flower plants seedlings like Bottle Brushes for compound beautification.

Asked if he will drop out of school to proceed with his lucrative business, the young man said he will juggle and balance between school, home chores and his business.

“I plan to study environmental Form Four student Donald Kiptoo who started his own science but mixing school, family tree nursery.

in crime and misbehavior,” said the MP. Kiptoo also thanked Baringo Deputy Governor Jacob Chepkwony who has recognized his work through the purchase of the seedlings for greening his farm.

Officers from the forestry department in Kabarnet also visited his nursery and advised him to plant more pine, grevillea seed and indigenous trees seedlings which do well in Baringo County and are in high demand.

When I started this business in 2011, my parents dismissed it, saying it was bound to fail although they gave me some financial and moral support.

The business was perceived to be for the elderly to keep them busy during retirement and not a young person like myself at the time.

His mother Kabon Ronoh praised him for establishing the nursery that has gone a long way to generate income for the family.

“Our son paid for the electricity installation services at Kenya Power and for the wiring of the familiy house and his cottage,” said Kabon She said Kiptoo has saved them during the hard economic times to pay for his school fees and take care of family’s well-being when business is good.

The ambitious young man urged well-wishers to support him purchase water storage tanks and also raise funds for the purchase of a pick-up truck for transportation of the seedlings to customers.

He also asked the county government of Baringo to award him tenders for supply tree seedlings for greening of the environment as envisaged by the national government.

Kiptoo has since sold over 10,000 cypress seedlings, 2,500 Grevillea seedlings, and 5000 Pawpaw seedlings among other tree species.

He urged his fellow youth to engage in self-employment activities like chicken farming and greenhouse technology to eke a living as opposed to waiting for white collar jobs that are scarce.

He further challenged them to plant trees in their homes as a way of greening the environment and help achieve the 10% forest cover.

10

OPINIONS & COMMENTARIES

EDITORIAL

Get experts to unravel Rift Valley lakes mystery Recent developments in Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes have created a lot of fear and anxiety among residents living around them.

The mystery of water in the lakes increasing at alarming levels even when rains have subsided in the region has left both local communities and environmental experts dumbfounded.

The affected lakes are Turkana, Baringo, Bogoria, Naivasha, Nakuru, Elementaita, Logipi, Solai, Olidem and the manmade Lake 94.

As the waters get out of hand, displacing hundreds of families living around lakes Naivasha, Baringo and Nakuru, there is fear by some geologists that land around the lakes could sink and consume towns and villages.

Local leaders are also anxious over large craters that have emerged in some areas through which all runoff rain water is draining into the ground.

There are fears that the fresh water Lake Baringo whose area has expanded from 176kms sq to 276kms sq, could in the near future merge with the saline lake Bogoria leading to an environmental disaster.

Lake Baringo which has a PH of 7.8 is home to hundreds of hippos and crocodiles, plus different fish species which local communities use for food and birds, while Lake Bogoria with a PH of 10.5 is a flamingo haven for tourists.

Recent reports indicate that Lake Bogoria is flooding on its north end, which is about 15kms from the south end of Lake Baringo.

Environment scientists and geologists have given different opinions as to what may be the cause of the sudden surge of water suspected to emerging from underground.

Some argue that the unfolding phenomenon could be due to an impending geological shift because the Rift Valley’s volcanic activity resulted in water getting into faults, lubricating tectonic

plates and causing tremors being experienced in some parts of Baringo County.

Others say water seepage into underground aquifers is being impeded by siltation that has clogged fault lines, leading to water retention.

Another school of thought is linked to climate change, which has given rise to heavy rains leading to the swelling of the lakes, while some environment professionals link the phenomenon to soil erosion that has increased siltation in the lakes.

Local communities, however, claim changes in the lakes began during a geothermal project in Menengai in Nakuru County.

As the scientists grapple with what could be causing the abnormal increase of water levels in the lakes, the situation on the ground is becoming frightening.

Lakes Naivasha and Oloidem have already merged, the same thing has happened to lakes Baringo and 94 as well as Lake Nakuru and Solai, with the numbers of flamingoes in the latter reported to be reducing in recent years.

A few years ago the country went into mourning after the embankment of a small dam around Solai in Nakuru County caved in, leaving water to gush into farms and homes killing many people.

The country has in the past faced many other challenges in containing floods that continue killing hundreds and displacing thousands in what has now become an annual occurrence.

One, therefore, shudders to imagine what will happen should the lake waters spill over into villages across the Kerio Valley and areas surrounding Nakuru and Naivasha towns because, the country has no capacity to handle such a catastrophe.

There is need for proper research to be done now rather than later perhaps with the assistance of international experts with vast geological experience.

THE TEAM Chief Executive Officer: Peter Silsil, Editor: Fred Biketi, Revise Editor: John Nyaosi, Staff writer: Sammy Munoko Business Development Manager: Stephen Makabila, Marketing Leader: Naomi Wairimu, Graphic Designers: George Waliaula &Gabriel Sankale, Distribution Team: Daniel Maganya, Gerald Labatt & Peter Suge

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Use conservation agriculture to protect top soil, earn profit The term “conservation agriculture” is defined as a concept for resource saving agricultural crop production that strives to achieve acceptable profits together with high and sustained production levels while concurrently conserving the environment.

Conservation agriculture has become an emotionally loaded term in recent years, but it is a must have in farming practice especially in the ever deteriorating production environment occasioned by climate change and unwise land use.

That being the case, every responsible farmer, government and other stakeholders should do anything in their power to pass on the land to the next generation in a better condition than they got it.

No-till crop production is one of the fundamental techniques of conservation agriculture.

Natural resources One of the most important natural resource for farming is the top soil. The top section of the soil, as in natural forest, has essential micro-organisms that are invisible to the naked eye.

These living organisms decompose organic matter and sequestrate carbon that is essential to the maintenance of humus which in turn binds soil particles together and holds onto the fertilizer.

A healthy soil is made up of these elements, which in turn allow the soil to absorb moisture easily and retain it at the same time.

In addition, enhanced oxygen availability to the plant roots encourages better root development.

Once this type of soil is made available, there will be enhanced production of earthworms – the ultimate indicator of healthy soil.

Ploughing and inversion of the top – soil leads to death and chasing away the living micro –

organisms and accelerated drying of soil, resulting from increased exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun.

On the other hand, maintenance of healthy mulch on the soil surface increases chances of success in getting conservation agriculture to work with and for us all.

Adopting no-till Have the soils analyzed for correction of any shortcomings before scrapping the plough. Acid saturation (acidity) is normally one of the main situations to correct with lime before starting no-till cultivation.

In case in insufficient cover on the soil surface, there is need to grow cover crop.

Mulch must be distributed as evenly as possible and it’s advisable to have more than 35% cover on the soil surface.

With different soils and land size, there is need to use disc,

Conventional planting Why do some farmers revert back to conventional planting?

•Many do not understand that conservation agriculture is a long-term investment for sustainability in farming operations. There is no gain without pain!!

•Lack of attention to detail by majority of farming fraternity.

•Impatience, since no-till fields appear worse in the early stages of crop growth due to various underlying factors.

However, in the dry season, great difference will be noted since no-till look far much better due to enhanced availability of soil moisture.

James Too tine, ridger or hoe to open the furrow where the seed and fertilizer will be placed at planting.

In case of a planter, it must not “bulldoze” the cover, rather it should cut through the mulch and leave narrow passages where the seedlings can emerge easily.

Get advice and ask for demonstrations on your farms from experts.

Controlling weeds and diseases, as in the case of conventional planting, is very important.

No-till needs good weed management prior to planting and after planting, especially when weeds are still young to reduce on chemical usage.

It is, therefore, high time for the farming fraternity to do right things at the right time by considering conservation agriculture and introduce no-till farming practices as a strategic move towards satisfying the rapidly increasing demand for quality agricultural products and the much needed income and jobs.

Too is an agricultural Engineer and has vast experience in production farming operations and farming systems.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

OPINIONS & COMMENTARIES 11

What water treatment process entails Water is the first Personal Protective Equipment-(PPE) and supply of clean potable water in this time and era when we are battling Covid-19 is the first step in preventing it.

Supply of clean water is key to prevention of waterborne diseases and other water related diseases and it is recognized by the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals; SDG 6.

This makes water an enabler in SDGs and it is important, therefore, to make sure water treatment process are adhered to and understood.

Water treatment is the process of cleaning water to make it fit for human consumption or any other process that improves the quality of the raw (untreated) water and the source.

This water is treated as per the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) standard of drinking water derived from the World Health Organisation (WHO’s) standards.

For surface water i.e. from the rivers, dams and lakes, we have a conventional treatment process which uses water treatment chemical to assist in Coagulation and flocculation process(dirt particles combine with the treatment chemical called flocculant), then sedimentation through a basin where the flocs settle to the bottom of the sedimentation tank.

The water then goes through the filtration process done by the filters and clean water is disinfected as it goes to the clear water

Margaret W. Maina

Supply of clean water is key to prevention of waterborne diseases and other water related diseases and it is recognized by the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals; SDG 6. tank for distribution to customers.

For boreholes, springs and wells, in most cases where the water is fresh water, disinfection is the only treatment done to prevent post contamination as the water goes to the consumers.

Where boreholes have high levels of fluoride and manganese and other inorganic substances above the WHO’s and KEBS standard, further treatment is required like Reverse Osmosis or Desalination through other process like nano-filtration.

Rural water supply system is located in the rural areas where after treatment, water is distributed to the communities through individual water connections, communal water points through water kiosks and yard taps.

Previously water in these areas was clean and only required simple filtration/sedimentation and chlorination systems in the

1980s but this has changed due to the degradation of the water catchment areas and pollution of the water sources.

This means that water has to undergo the full treatment process. The water catchment areas are mostly the forests, wetland and the lakes.

Generally, raw water sources include boreholes, wells, river, streams, springs, lake and oceans while boreholes and spring water are rated as the cleanest naturally among these sources.

They don’t require a lot of treatment procedures since the water to a higher extent is usually of high quality depending on the soil chemical contents and porosity, type of aquifers and the protection of the catchment areas.

Fluoride and Manganese are usually found in large quantities in these two sources though.

All the above sources have different water treatment mecha-

nisms. Oceans for instance use non-filtration process to remove the salts.

A conventional treatment plant as explained earlier is where raw water is treated by use of chemicals i.e. Aluminum Sulphate (Alum) used to remove dirt.

The Aluminum part combines with the dirt particles to form colloids or flocs, a process called floccullation or coagulation where colloids stick together and settle at the sedimentation tanks, then clear water is collected through a channel for filtration Another chemical used is called Sodium Bicarbonate aka Soda Ash that controls the PH. If the PH is low, there is need to add soda ash to adjust to near neutral at PH 7 to make sure the water does not corrode the pipes and other fixtures at the consumer level. Alum also works best between PH 7.0-7.2 Water goes through the filtration process by use of rapids and filters to make sure it has no sediments and it is then collected to the clear water tank, where it is disinfected before it is distributed to the consumers.

Common disinfection methods include chlorination, ozone and UV-light. Chlorination is the most common with a requirement of residual chlorine at the consumer level at 0.2mg/l of chlorine.

Water quality testing is an important element in water treat-

ment for basic parameters for both raw and treated water.

For raw water tests are done to determine the level of treatment chemicals to be applied where necessary and the dosages.

One such test is the jar test which gives the operator the amount of chemicals to be used per treatment period.

Treated water is also treated for quality assurance to make sure water is fit for human consumption and to maintain the same quality at the consumer level.

Quality Monitoring is also done by PH,Turbidity, Colour, Alkalinity, Total Hardness and conductivity, Residual Chlorine, Coliform and E.coli tests amongst others at various points in the water supply chain.

Surveillance is also done by regulators and other oversight bodies to make sure that the rights of the public to clean and safe water is guarded as water is a human right too.

To the workers in this essential services sector, let us keep our taps running especially at this time of Covid-I9 pandemic, and as behind the scenes workers who will never be acknowledged in this fight, history will remember that Water was the first PPE in this battle.

Ms Maina is the Managing Director, Limuru Water and Sewerage Company.

Why we must protect Mangrove ecosystem The International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem is celebrated every year on 26 July as a unique opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of mangroves as a “unique, special and vulnerable ecosystem”, and to promote their sustainable management, conservation and use.

This day is a reminder of the pivotal role of mangroves in preserving ecosystems. Taking care of nature that surrounds us has become even more critical as the world grapples with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

This year, the Nairobi Convention has released Guidelines on Mangrove Restoration for the Western Indian Ocean Region, which for the first time, analyzes risks and challenges to mangrove restoration projects and suggests potential solutions.

An ecosystem like none other According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), mangroves are commonly found along sheltered coastlines in the tropics and subtropics where they provide crucial socio-economic and environmental functions.

They provide a variety of wood and non-wood forest products and protect coastlines from wind, waves and water currents.

Mangroves also conserve biological diversity – including several

Lisa Murray

In the latest report

by Global Mangrove Alliance, an estimated 67% of mangroves have been lost or degraded to date, and an additional 1% is lost each year.

endangered mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds. They protect coral reefs, seagrass beds and shipping lanes against siltation while providing habitat, spawning grounds and nutrients for a variety of fish and shellfish.

In the latest report by Global Mangrove Alliance, an estimated 67% of mangroves have been lost or degraded to date, and an additional 1% is lost each year. This puts mangroves at risk of being obliterated. To support a comprehensive global approach to largescale mangrove conservation, restoration, and sustainable use, several organizations including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy, Conservation International, and Wetlands International, have come together to form the Global Mangrove Alliance (GMA).

This alliance brings together NGOs, governments, industry, local communities and funders to not only stop mangrove degradation but also to increase mangrove cover by 20% by 2030. The alliance also has defined underlying objectives of utilizing mangroves as a nature-based solution to enhance climate adaptation and mitigation, food security, and human well-being.

“In addressing mangrove loss, wider planning regimes are needed that acknowledge the true complexity of marine and coastal ecosystems and incorporate them into a network of protected areas,” Levis Kavagi, the Africa Coordinator of Ecosystems and Biodiversity Programme at UN Environment Programme, said. “We must understand that sustainable mangrove forestry and aquaculture practices can reduce pressure on mangroves

and provide a steady income for local communities.”

High population pressure in coastal areas has, however, led to user change in many mangrove areas to infrastructure, aquaculture, rice and salt production. While numerous case studies describe mangrove losses over time, information on the status and trends of mangrove area coverage globally level is scarce.

Changing lifestyles have altered our environmental use, especially land and other natural resources. Forests and other natural areas have been cleared to create spaces for urban areas and settlements, agriculture and industries.

This has reduced the overall space for wildlife and degraded natural buffers between humans and animals.

Nature-based solutions Investing in nature-based solutions will be essential to prevent future catastrophe. Mangroves are among the most productive naturebased solutions. Not only do they protect shorelines from eroding, shielding us from floods, hurricanes, and storms, but they also provide nursery areas for fish, crustaceans, molluscs, and more, while supporting many threatened and endangered species. Mangroves are also an essential tool in the fight against climate change. They take up to five times more carbon out of the atmosphere than forests on land. Globally, mangroves provide goods and services estimated to be

worth billions per year.

“Successful mangrove management interventions need to be backed up by the right economic and political settings, and incentives including payments for ecosystem services and incentives to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation,” said Dr Juliette Biao Koudenoukpo, Director and Regional Representative of UN Environment Programme in Africa.

Mangroves in Africa In Africa, the main hotspots of mangrove loss are in Mozambique and Western Africa. In East Africa, pollution, exploitation and extreme weather are important drivers of mangrove loss, while conversion to agriculture or aquaculture has been significant in Mozambique, Madagascar and in West Africa.

Mangrove restoration also offers the possibility to reverse patterns of mangrove decline and rebuild lost biodiversity and ecosystem services. To bring everyone on board and ensure an essential buy-in, it is vital that beneficiaries of mangrove services are integrally involved in mangrove management and restoration planning. Relevant and more specific national laws, regulations and policies that are enacted and enforced are critical to improved mangrove management.

The writer is a freelance photographer, reporter and videographer specializing in the environment and development sectors.

12 WASTE MANAGEMENT

KDF launches borehole in Kisii Over 5,000 homes in Nyagancha village of Bobasi, Kisii County will get clean water courtesy of a project launched by the Defence Ministry.

The project will serve Nyagancha Primary School, Nyagancha Health Centre, Nyagancha market and neighbouring communities.

Major Peter Njenga represented Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) during the official handing over ceremony at Nyagancha Primary School.

-Calvin Moseti

Piped water brings joy to Embu village Villagers in Embu recently celebrated when they received the first drop of treated, piped water in the area.

They were witnessing the launch of phase one of a water project funded by Embu County Government at a cost of Sh14.4 million.

Previously, women and children trekked long distances to fetch water from River Thuci and the crocodile infested River Tana, with scores of residents losing their lives after they were attacked by crocodiles.

-Kamundia Muriithi

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

ADVERTISING FEATURE

How biodigester has changed waste management system

By Sammy Munoko

G

one are the days when exhauster machine services were required for domestic and commercial waste disposal.

Technology has eased challenges of the time spent on getting hired waste collection bowsers from faraway places to collect the solid waste.

The multipronged waste management modern biodigester technology is changing the septic tank processes with a simple fact that users are assured of continued use of their facility.

The biodigester can’t get filled up if the number of people using it does not overwhelm its capacity. Traditional septic tanks require emptying after few months or years of utilisation, as opposed to the use of the biodigester.

Apart from ensuring the septic tanks do not get filled up, modern biodigesters also generate waste water as a by-product.

The Director and Founder of Modern Biokenya (Modern Biodigester Kenya) Ken Kagunyi took time to expound on the scientific process that takes place to keep the waste at constant level or reducing it despite continued off-loading of the matter in the septic tanks.

Fermentation The process involves introduction of bacteria to break down the waste in the septic tank.

Once the waste enters the biodigester, it is broken down by bacteria, which

reduces the size of the physical waste in a process that ensures anaerobic fermentation whereby the bacteria digests the matter in the absence of oxygen.

“Waste is reduced and gasses that result in bad smell are removed and water is separated from soild waste,” explained Kagunyi.

Reduced solid material is left to decay for three to four hours through a process called biodegradation of displacement.

This entails a process of catalyzed breakdown when waste comes in contact with the enzyme plastered on the inside of the biodigester and then, waste is moved to soak pit through a special outlet.

“The biodigester is round in shape (Israel design) which creates optimum space for enzyme bacterial reaction to reduce the size of waste quickly,” he added.

He said the enzymes are imported, hence calls for networking to ensure the project continued success in Kenya.

“We partner with other firms that do the same work to import the enzyme which is quite costly and not easily available hence making the entire process of setting up a biodigester extremely expensive,” said Kagunyi.

He explained that the other scientific reason biodigetsers don’t get filled up is because immersion of anything that has volume in a liquid displaces an equal volume.

Emptying

The technology has several advantages ranging from cost effectiveness when emptying the septic tanks, being environment friendly because it is odourless, less space occupation and also because it is recyclable.

Getting water as a by-product that can be used for irrigation purposes is also another plus.

The anaerobic digestion inactivates pathogens hence reducing incidents of waterborne diseases for those utilizing the water generated from the biodigester.

A word of caution from Kagunyi is that there are set standards while establishing the biodigester system in order to meet the expectations of those using the facility.

“Biodigesters can get filed up if poorly constructed. There is need to consider the number of people whose waste will be channeled to the biodigester,” he said.

Waste discharge must be in tandem with the enzyme ability to react within the biodigester to break down the waste matter to manageable quantities.

Low enzyme application compared to quantity of waste discharged will only result in waste production and no water as expected.

It is, therefore, important to ensure the number of people and housing units are allocated corresponding size of biodigester system.

“We have four products. A 1.5m diameter biodigester is done for schools/

commercial buildings with less than 100 pupils per day, 2m diameter biodigester for a capacity of 200 people per day and 3m diameter biodigester for 450 people per day,” said Kagunyi.

In cases where there are more people than the capacity, they increase the height of the biodigester so as to create more surface area for enzymatic reaction and biodegradation.

The biodigesters are made by cementing the lower part and raise it step by step, which allows for increase of height when it is required. Kagunyi stated that waste from toilets should be channeled to the biodigester while other kitchen and bathroom wastes should be directed to the soak pit.

Poor co-ordination of the process results in blockage and degradation of the system resulting in additional charges in terms of repairs and maintenance.

Kitchen fat waste is a major contributor to that challenge hence grease trap must be used in the kitchen sink to trap fats and allow water to drain to the soak pits.

The soak pit is only incorporated in biodigesters for residential houses but for commercial building, clients are required to construct soak pits at a separate cost.

Modern Biokenya Limited was founded in 2016 and registered in 2018 and Kagunyi has been working through partnerships to expand his venture and share valuable ideas and resources.

Youth urged to start tree nurseries Youths have been challenged to establish tree nurseries to meet the rising demand for seedlings as the government gears towards attaining 10 per cent forest cover.

Ministry of Environment Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Mohammed Elmi urged youths to venture into raising seedlings as an incomegenerating activity.

Speaking in Murang’a during distribution of seedlings to farmers in Maragua area, Elmi urged youth groups to seek technical advice from Kenya Forestry Service (KFS) and Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI) on how to effectively establish tree nurseries.

“Young people can make a lot of money by selling seedlings. Let them get seeds from KFS and be trained on how to start better nurseries. The demand for seedlings countrywide is quite high,” noted Elmi.

-Our Reporter

THE ADVANTAGES OF BIODIGESTER

• • • • • • •

Email: info@modernbiokenya.co.ke Facebook: Modern biodigester Kenya Call/ Text/ Whatsapp 0720 791988 0716 458409 Located at TWO WAYS JUNCTION center RUAKA along Limuru Road

Occupies less space Does not fill up No bad odour or smell Water can be recycled to flush toilet or cleaning or irrigation Savings construction, labour Leaves room for improvement in the environment sanitation and hygiene Anaerobic digestion inactivates pathogens and parasites, hence reducing incidence of water borne diseases

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

CLIMATE CHANGE 13

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

ENVIRONMENT & CLIMATE CHANGE

Lake Magadi in danger of extinction due to siltation

By Ben Leshau

Lake Magadi, the sole soda ash producing lake in East Africa, faces risk of extinction in the next five years should uncontrolled siltation continue unabated.

Massive siltation from rampant human activity in five catchment areas drains into river Kisamis which flows into the lake.

The findings were from a study conducted by the National Environment and Complaints Committee (NECC) on the degradation of the five catchment areas in neighbouring Narok county.

The lake is in Kajiado county.

The siltation is blamed on mining.

Residents of Mosiro, who live along the Kajiado/Narok border, recently held a demonstration to protest against human activity that is endangering the lake.

Over 100 residents living along the River Kisamis launched complaints to the committee, claiming that TATA Chemicals Ltd that mines the soda ash at the lake, had built dykes along the river before proper public participation was carried out.

After the tour, the NECC Secretary

John Chumo cited the continued cultivation of catchment areas such as Nairagie-Enkare, Kormoto, Oloitip, Suswa and Oltapot as the reason for siltation in the lake which is 640 metres above sea level.

“The upper catchment areas are 2,000 metres above sea level while the lake is just 640 metres above sea level making it vulnerable to siltation due to soil deposits carried by river Kisamis downwards,” said Chumo.

The Environment Ombudsman also revealed that 30 per cent of Lake Magadi had already been covered by siltation and that should the trend continue it will completely disappear in the next five years.

The lake is a key revenue source to the government and local community as it contributes over Sh5 billion annually in foreign exchange and also supports livelihoods of the local community.

Since 2005, water in the lake has continued to dwindle due to siltation.

Chumo attributes this to wanton destruction of trees for charcoal as well as clearing of shrubs in catchment areas for agricultural purposes.

He said that on a single rainy day an

National Environmental Complaints Committee members inspecting gulleys at Emurtoto area in Narok East. Photo/Ben Leshau estimated 8,000 metric tons of silt is deposited into the lake thus endangering its existence.

Lake Magadi gets the silt from as far as 90km which is now posing a threat to the 1,200kms sq lake.

Flood waters from upstream also displace locals who complained that the dykes diverted water to their private lands.

Jackson Kormoto, one of the complainants, lamented that they were

From curse to blessing: Northern Kenya herders turn cactus into fodder

By Shadrack Omuka Email shadomuka@gmail.com Dressed in a checked red and blue shuka and tyre sandals, Allan Kosimbei is seated on a traditional stool behind his hut. Beside him is a bunch of cactus cladodes he harvested the previous day.

Kosimbei, 58, was born and raised in the outskirts of Doldol town, a tough arid area where climatic conditions have taught him a lot of survival skills.

Although he has managed to adapt to many situations, he did not know that the stubborn cactus plant that had killed his animals over the years could actually be an animal feed.

“I used to hate cactus but I now use it to feed my animals. Nobody knew that one day, it would become beneficial,” says Kosimbei, who is also an adult education teacher.

Every dry season, North Eastern farmers prepare for the worst as most of their animals are likely to die due to lack of pasture and water.

Some wise herders sell off their stock the moment they sense danger, leaving only a few, and save the money.

But the majority start to move with their livestock in search for water and grass. Many of the animals, however, eventually become weak and die.

As herders mourn, slaughter houses and butcheries rejoice, because that

Invasive cactus in northern Kenya. Photo/Shadrack Omuka

is the time to get animals at extremely low prices.

During prolonged droughts, the price of a mature cow can drop to a paltry Sh2,000, down Sh50,000.

Since they discovered cactus, herders like Kosimbei have nothing to worry about because they feed their livestock cactus, thus saving them from starvation.

The cactus has spread across the northern region ruining grazing fields, which making it the most hated plant by herders across the rangelands.

“I used to hate this plant when I was growing up due to negative mentality implanted in me by my grandfather,” he said.

not consulted when the dykes were constructed along the river and there are complaints of floods sweeping away livestock because the dykes direct water to farms.

“We are ready to conserve Lake Magadi but we need to also be respected and heard,” said Kormoto, who is a spokesman of Mosiro residents.

Chumo attributed the degradation of the lake to illegal activities in Mau Forest.

They called cactus the invasive weed planted by the devil to clear grazing fields so that our animals would die.

When grazing fields dry up, cactus is the only vegetation that is left green in the middle of the vast parched Laikipia plains because they endure tough climatic conditions.

But things changed when a few years ago, scientists from various research organisations visited the area to teach locals how to turn cactus into livestock feed.

Among the beneficiaries was Clyde Ntepenika who was shown how to use

Fruits from Opuntia megacantha are edible by both humans and animals but they have several sharp elegant spines that are easily removed by people. cactus for livestock feed by a friend two years ago.

“I grew up knowing that cactus kills animals when they ingest the spiky leaves found on the cladodes. But today it is a wonderful animal feed, thanks to the researchers,” Ntepenika said.

John Kang’ara, a researcher and animal nutritionist at Kenya Agricultural Livestock and Research Organisation (Kalro), said the prickly pear type of cactus can be used in tough times as animal feed.

The prickly pear (Opuntia megacantha) cactus contains 90 per cent moisture which is enough to save livestock for a long time, hence curbing losses to farmers.

The plant was introduced in the northern part of the country and other drylands by colonial settlers in the early 19th century to fence their farms.

Vihiga launches climate change fund committee The Vihiga County Climate Change Fund Planning Committee has been launched to oversee the climate change initiatives in the county.

The committee is tasked with initiating and coordinating finance for climate change adaptation and mitigation activities at the community level and establishing climate finance mechanisms.

It will also facilitate and plan climate change adaptation and mitigation and carry out budgetary framework, while seeking and receiving grants from international sources among other tasks.

Vihiga County is among the top ten counties that have to enact the County Climate Change Fund Act 2019, which aligns with the Climate Change Fund Act of 2016.

Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo urged the committee to address challenges posed by climate change while Makueni County Chief Officer for Environment Becky Nthenge asked them to synergise climate change protocols from the ward levels.

The committee is led by Humphrey Mukisira, a career climate crusader.

- Mathews Achola

But as years went on, the plant spread throughout the region invading grazing fields and covering thousands of hectares of land forcing farmers to look for ways to eradicate it.

Elephants, baboons, birds and other wild animals that feed on cactus fruits are responsible for dispersion of the seeds for germination across the region making it hard for the farmers to control it.

Fruits from Opuntia megacantha are edible by both humans and animals but they have several sharp elegant spines that are easily removed by people.

Livestock, however, just consume them whole thus damaging the digestive canal, which eventually kills them.

“I have lost several animals to drought. If I had known earlier that cactus can be used as fodder, I could now be rich,” said Joseph Lenorkulal, 72, another herder in Laikipia North who has been taught how to harvest and prepare cactus.

Dr. Willis Owino of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), who has also done research on cactus, says utilising what can naturally grow in ASAL regions as animal feed is one of the best methods of adapting to climate change.

“An animal like a sheep for instance can survive on cacti for several months without supplementation,” Dr. Owino told reporters in Doldol.

He, however, said that cactus has to be processed by completely crashing the spines in the cladodes to produce thick pulp that is fed to animals.

Owino further said farmers must adhere to safety measures while processing it as a single spike left in the pulp might cause a serious problem to animals.

According to Peter Lorikuni, a veterinary officer in northern Kenya, though not adequate, the amount of moisture in the plant can keep the animal going for several months and save farmers huge losses.

“This is something that could have started many years ago but the problem was that it was not easy to convince farmers to embrace cactus as the majority of them hate the plant,” says Lorikuni.

14 ADVERTISING FEATURE

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THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

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THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

NEWS 15

IRRIGATION

From a military enthusiast to top irrigation technician

By Sammy Munoko Henry Kuya is a general technician committed to ensuring food security is attained in the country through irrigation support services.

He has a five year experience in providing solutions to the technical challenges in irrigation that has boosted the food supply in arid and semi-arid areas in Kenya.

Aged 28, Kuya who comes from Kakamega County in Bukura, is from a family of four siblings and has worked diligently to earn recognition from his seniors.

He attended Mwiyenga Primary School, in 2012 and Shikunga High School all in his home county of Kakamega.

Kuya had an ambition of becoming a military officer and tried three times to enlist in the army but was unsuccessful.

The frustration pushed him to consider other options because time was quickly running out and his other three brothers had enrolled for education courses.

“I ventured into a unique career path from my other family mem-

Meru County drills 200 boreholes Residents of Tigania and Buuri in Meru County can finally access sufficient water supply after the County Government sank 200 boreholes.

Residents in the two semiarid areas have been relying on relying on relief food aid for survival in the past.

The County Government is geared towards drilling adequate number of boreholes in five subcounties covering Tigania West, Tigania East, Igembe North, Igembe Central and Buuri.

Solar powered boreholes provide large quantities of water supply to residents for both domestic use and enhancing agricultural activities.

Many famers have expressed optimism that agricultural yield will greatly be enhanced following the County Government’s intervention.

-Our Reporter

Henry Kuya, General Irrigation Technician. bers by joining Bukura Institute of Agriculture to pursue a three-year diploma course in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering in 2014,”

says Kuya.

He took his attachment course at FineTouch Africa in Kajiado County and later did his internship at the same organisation before securing employment there in 2016.

Kuya appreciates FineTouch for granting him a platform to hone his skills in the water engineering sector after graduating from college.

The technician says the organisation has enabled him foot his bills especially in the challenging economic times occasioned by Covid-19 pandemic.

His tasks include overhead and drip irrigation, construction of green houses, installation of dam liners in fish ponds and plumbing works.

He says to attain food security, one of the national government’s key agendas, irrigation is part of the solution especially in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya where there is limited rainfall.

The National Irrigation Board (NIB) is at the forefront of supporting irrigation schemes in the country to boost food supply to meet rising demand.

He appealed to the government

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Many competing firms have taken up the challenge to venture into the trade by offering solar energy solutions.

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This solutions are accelerated by the fact that the company has highly qualified and experienced Engineers locally who work in collaboration with those from Canada and China.

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by SethStar Company: Solar Water Heating Systems – Provides both flat plate and evacuated tube solar water heating systems to meet individual and commercial hot water requirements. This system saves up to 70 per cent of water heating electricity bills.

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Product installation for its customers is done countywide and the solar panels can use minimum amount of light to generate electricity, not necessarily direct sunshine.

Customer satisfaction is rated at 94 per cent while its product quality is at 96 per cent hence conforms to energy regulatory requirements set out in Kenya.

The solar panels have a manufacturer warrantee period of between 30 to 50 years of use. Solar power being a renewable resource is environmentally friendly and it is freely available.

The company’s head office is located at the Kenya Clothing House along Ronald Ngala Street in Nairobi.

General irrigation technician Henry Kuya repairing a broken pipe. to consider giving loans to young Kenyans so that they can venture into agriculture and eliminate the high rate of dependency due to lack of jobs.

“Youth groups can establish greenhouses among other initiatives to generate income for themselves,” notes Kuya.

He plans to set up an irrigation establishment to benefit many Kenyans who can’t access food.

He rates irrigation coverage in the country to be at 40 per cent hence the need to expand food production under irrigation.

Kuya faced security challenges while executing his duties in North Eastern counties like Mandara, Wajir and in Somalia.

Outdated and faulty machines owned by clients also pose a great challenge in execution of his duties and in some places language barrier slows down the progress of his work.

Kuya says quality of service or provision of good products to clients is of utmost priority to grain their trust.

He works with a pool of other qualified technicians who traverse the entire country to provide irrigation-related solutions to clients at a reasonable fee under the guidance of their supervisors.

FineTouch Africa is based in Kajiado County and has branches in Nairobi, Eldoret, Mombasa, Nakuru and Kitale.

16 TOURISM & WILDLIFE

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

The highly misunderstood hyena

By Dennis Ochieng Few animals are as maligned as the hyena. In most societies, they are referred to as an epitome of greed.

But in Luo Nyanza, the name Ondiek (hyena) isn’t only a surname but one of praise.

Admittedly, hyenas aren’t endearing creatures with their beady eyes, leaning back posture and the dull limping movement which all suggest something scruffy and villainous.

The hyena’s unnerving howls pierces and often plants fear in the African night which makes it a hated and feared creature that can make one to tremble.

“It’s only the genitalia which looks similar,’’ explained Ali Hassan, an environmentalist dismissing the notion hyena is a hermaphrodite.

Against this background the hyena has received more than its fair share of negative publicity but the straight record is that the hyena isn’t a dog of some sort as many mistakenly think. They are a territorial distinct species and the resemblance is purely superficial.

They are commonly thought to be cowards but far from that, they are effective hunters and not just scavengers as they have been mistaken to be.

Hyenas have exceptionally powerful shoulders, have the strongest jaws of all African carnivores and are quite efficient at pack hunting their own prey –even as large as a buffalo.

They are ranked among the great

Hyenas after having a sumptuous meal.

Photo/Dennis Amoto predators ofAfrica and have been known to chase lionesses away from their own prey when they are eating.

The hyena has effective hunting skills and through scavenging, they are known as the inspector general

and garbage collectors because they go round making the area they live in clean by feeding up on trash thus preventing epidemics.

They not only kill and eat sickly animals which are on their death bed but

also have strong jaws that crush large bones keeping the environment clean.

“The cleaner general changes roles and finishes off the job to prevent the sickly or weak animals from further suffering thus offering euthanasia,’’ explains Ali Hassan of Hirola Home Range .

He adds that ecologically, hyenas play vital role in natural balance by maintaining the number of animal herds and preventing overgrazing in wildlife sanctuaries.

Although it’s said laughter is the best medicine, the hyena’s manic chuckle may sound a bit unpleasant to many but in realty is for merely communicating with fellow clan members.

According to researchers, the communication enables widely scattered hyenas to let each other know where they are so they can regroup quickly if the need arises such as defending their territory or form a hunting party.

“The excitement of making a kill or discovering carrion is voiced by high pitched giggles and each spotted hyena has its own whoop which is recognised by other hyenas,’’ said Hassan.

But not all hyenas laugh. The southern Africa brown hyena is smaller and quieter than the more common spotted hyena. The brown hyena prefers to forage alone instead of in groups and relies more on communication by scent.

So as Nyanza people of Kenya have Ondiek, Otoyo mang’ang’a as revered surnames, nicknames and praise names, they are a window of opportunity for

misunderstood hyena.

It is no laughing matter because Nyanza people ‘love’the hyena because it is threatened in the wild.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) maintains the hyena at ‘Red List,’ at risk and near extinct species in the wild world.

“Major reasons for decline of their number is due to habitat loss, poisoning, shooting, snaring by humans, decreasing sources of carrion and wildlife prey as hyena turn to livestock into prey,’’ explained Hassan .

He added that humans are the major cause of hyena mortality as they kill it for straying into farms and for its skin, fur, meat and body parts for use in traditional medicine.

Hassan revealed that in neigbouring Somalia, hyena meat is a delicacy believed to the spike the libido and in Ethiopia they are kept as pets and not seen as pests.

Research has revealed that hyena has a unique immune system that withstands diseases that kill other animals, hence their importance to human beings.

The IUCN notes that hyenas have strict hierarchy with the highest ranking males falling below lowest ranking females in a matriarchal society maintained by dominant females exerting authority.

Females live in clans forever while males leave at the age of two and half years to form or join new clans.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

Kenya bags inaugural ‘Safer Tourism Seal’ award

By Sammy Munoko The Kenyan tourism sector has received a major boost after being conferred with the new “Safe Tourism Seal” award by an international association.

This means Kenya is the first country to receive the much-coveted tourism global award presented by the Rebuild Travel virtually to Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala (pictured) last month.

The recognition follows the Safe Travel Stamp award to the country by the World Travel and Tourism Council earlier in June.

The virtual event was attended by global tourism leaders under the Rebuild Travel Umbrella, a global pro-tourism industry group composed of members of tourism boards, ministers of tourism, professional associations, industry stakeholders, researchers, academicians and travellers.

While receiving the award, Balala said the recognition was a testimony of Kenya’s sustained efforts to facilitate safety of travelers amid the Covid-19 pandemic challenge.

“As a destination, we have put together health and safety measures that are aimed at ensuring the safe reopening of the tourism sector. This is to ensure that our citizens, travellers and workers are well protected. On behalf of my country, I am happy to receive this recognition that shows we are headed in the right direction in regard to the Covid-19 safety protocols,” said Balala in a press statement.

For a country to receive such an award, the destination must address key aspects known as “tourism surety” through travellers’safety, security, destination’s reputation, economic visibility and health.

The Safer Travel Seal will go a long way in restoring traveller confidence while heading to Kenya as the country gradually reopens the tourism sector to both domestic and foreign tourists, following the easing of some Covid-19 restrictions.

“I can say confidently that we have rolled out successfully the protocols we put in place together with the Ministry of Health. If you visit our hotels, eateries and other tourism outlets in Kenya you will be assured of safety if you adhere to the guidelines. I encourage all those who wish to visit our country to do so confidently,” said the CS. President Uhuru Kenyatta last

month also expressed his satisfaction with the measures being undertaken by the tourism sector stakeholders against coronavirus pandemic and urged local and international tourists to visit Kenya as a safe destination.

After the pandemic hit the country and the world early this year, Kenya collaborated with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in a campaign dubbed ‘TravelTomorrow’ geared towards urging travellers to stay a home and remain safe against the adverse effects of Covid-19 pandemic.

The Ministry of Tourism through the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) also partnered with the private sector to keep the destination alive through virtual live streaming initiative.

The rebuild tourism and travel members congratulated the CS and Kenya for the rare award and recognised the initiatives taken by the government through the Ministry of Tourism and Health in ensuring safety of all travellers.

The Safer Tourism Seal will expire in 2022 and if the destination still meets the ‘tourism surety’requirements, Kenya will be considered for renewal.

The tourism sector has greatly been hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in loss of jobs for many hospitality industry employees.

The hospitality industry in Kenya is gradually opening up following the relaxation of containment measures by the government after stakeholders adhered to the set safety and health protocols.

WB gives Mumias Sh143m for waste management

By Achola Mathews

help reduce waterborne diseases by targeting population of the urban low-income area with dire need for sanitation.

“The project will include operator’s house, solid waste incinerator, construction of Safisan toilets and training of local artisans, emptiers and operators,” said Abdikadir.

Prof Laban Ayiro, the Corporation’s chairman said the 50 cubic metres facility will serve 4,500 beneficiaries.

“Our mandate is to supply clean water to homesteads and offer sewerage services to people. I appreciate Water Sector Trust Fund for this project as it will improve public sanitation in Mumias,” said Ayiro.

The World Bank has given the County government of Kakamega Sh143 million for infrastructure development including a waste management facility in Mumias town.

The Kakamega County Deputy Governor, Philip Kutima, said the amount will be increased to Sh210 million to improve infrastructure in Mumias to meet its municipality status.

“We are investing heavily in improving road network and social amenities to modernise the town,” said Kutima.

Speaking in Mumias during the launch of the project, he said the county government will also ensure all homes are supplied with clean piped water.

He said Mumias has enough water but only a third is being used and the target is to ensure that everybody has clean water.

The Deputy Governor said the decentralized waste management facility will ensure no waste is discharged into River Nzoia.

Kakamega County Urban Water and Sanitation Corpo- Deputy Governor Prof. Philip Kutima ration Chief Executive takes part in a groundbreaking ceremoOfficer,AbdikarAbdi, ny for waste management facility. said the facility will Photo\Achola Mathews

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

IRRIGATION 17

Sh5.3b boost for 20,000 Bunyala Irrigation farmers

By Our Reporter Thousands of farmers in Siaya and Busia counties will benefit from the expansion of Bunyala rice irrigation scheme.

The project is being undertaken by the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) at a cost of Sh.5.3 billion.

The project, which is expected to be completed in December 2022, will cover an estimated 20,000 farmers from the current 2,000 in Budalang’i and Alego Usonga constituencies.

The expansion targets an extra 10,000 acres under irrigation in phase one of its implementation and another 10,000 acres in phase two.

According to the Project Manager Eng. Edwin Manyonge, the expansion is aimed at ensuring food security and wealth creation for residents.

“The project is necessitated by the need to increase the acreage area under production in the lower regions of River Nzoia,” he said.

He added that expansion will also cater for other food crops apart from rice which has been allocated about 60 per cent of the area under irrigation.

Budalang’i is known for flooding every year when Nzoia River bursts its banks due to heavy rainfall leading to deaths and destruction of food crops and property.

When it floods, residents are forced to move to safer grounds while learners are relocated to schools in safer areas.

Chief Engineer Planning and Design Charles Muasya said it was critical to get it right during the design stage to prevent floods and

for effective irrigation farming.

“During design stage we found it necessary for dykes be developed at the river for sustainability of the ongoing irrigation scheme expansion project,” he said.

The project is funded by the World Bank, German Development Bank (KfW) and the Kenyan government.

Bunyala irrigation scheme was started in 1959 with an initial 534 acres under paddy rice production and has been under production since then.

Irrigation water is pumped from the river after which it flows by gravity through furrows or open earth channels to the farms.

Due to increased demandforrice,two new pumps sets wereinstalledin2005 and two more were installed in 2007.

A section of a farm at Bunyala Rice Irrigation Scheme. Local farmers are set to benefit from government funding to increase rice production.

About 95 per cent of the works on phase one of the project is complete and it is to be implemented through force of gravity which is cheaper compared to water pumps that consume a lot of power.

The initial canal stretching 3.2kms will be expanded to 20 kms on completion.

A farmer, Susan Beryl, said rice irrigation farming has been a good source of income that has enabled her to create jobs by employing over five workers on her farm.

The benefits of the expansion include food security, employment and wealth creation thereby improving the living stands.

In the 2017-18 financial year rice production yields increased from

Nature challenge: Kipchoge champions tree-planting race

By Philemon Kiprop

Environment and Forestry PS, Dr. Chris Kiptoo planting a tree at Kaptagat Forest during the launch of tree planting marathon challenge. Photo/Philemon Kiprop

Marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge is now championing a new cause of conserving the environment through tree planting.

He has mobilised leaders and the community to engage in a tree planting race whose target is to increase tree cover in Kaptagat forest and other areas of the North Rift region.

The campaign dubbed “tree planting marathon challenge” was launched in Kaptagat forest, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The inaugural challenge saw County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Water and Environment Abraham Barsosio crowned the first champion having planted 17 trees in less than two minutes.

The event presided over by the Environment and Forestry PS Chris

3,650 to 5,350 tons.

The left bank of the river covers Muluwa, Nemali, Munaka, Luwamoro, Nanjomi, Buhowa and Siamungu while the right bank covers Ruambwa/Mudembi.

About 10 per cent of the potential area has been effectively utilised but the remaining part is not yet developed, yet there is increasing demand for irrigated agriculture, according to NIA. Expanded The scheme acreage expanded from 543 acres in 2006 to 1,880 acres in 2018.

Although long term plans to increase area under irrigation are underway, short term goals are in

Kiptoo was attended by local leaders and other guests.

The concept of the challenge is about participants planting as many trees as possible within a stipulated period of time.

The PS encouraged Kenyans to engage in agroforestry activities in farms to increase forest cover in the country.

He said the government has set a target of planting two billion trees by 2022, which will translate to 10 per cent of forest cover nationally.

He lauded the county government of Elgeyo Marakwet for having superseded the national target which currently stands at 37% forest cover.

“It is the only county that has a large forest cover in the country and whose efforts other counties should,” remarked the PS. Kiptoo commended Kipchoge for showing interest in environmental conservation and urged other sports champions to emulate him by engaging in activities that impact communities positively.

“Eliud Kipchoge is among few sportsmen that have shown interest in partnering with Kenya Forest Service in rehabilitating forests in Kenya,” noted Kiptoo.

progress to have an additional 200acre crop area by extending the canal at Muluwa phase two.

Another measure is to extend the canal at Mudembi to bring under irrigation an additional 200 acres at Ruamwa/Mudembi phase five.

Cropping intensity was also increased from 90 to 150 per cent by introducing two crops in a year as opposed to one crop.

This initiative not only reduces field fallow time but has also increased production under the same acreage.

Other notable irrigation schemes in Kenya are Bura, Mwea, Tana, Perkerra, Ahero and West Kano.

NYANZA

No squatters will be settled in Kodera forest: Tobiko Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Environment and Wildlife Keriako Tobiko has dismissed calls to settle squatters in the Nyanza’s Kodera forest as untenable.

The CS, who appeared before the parliamentary committee on Environment and Natural Resources, said the proposal was only aimed at derailing the government’s policy of ensuring 10 per cent forest cover.

Tobiko said the government has set a target of attaining the 10 per cent forest cover by 2022 from the current 7.2 per cent.

-Correspondent

18 REGIONAL REPORTS

By Ogutu Miruka

A

t the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was not uncommon to hear people talking about a ‘postCovid-19’ world.

Indeed, a number of people, including major news outlets still hold that line of thought.

However, it is slowly dawning on most people that the pandemic has changed the world in some irreversible ways and that it is probably more relevant to talk of ‘in the wake of the pandemic’ rather than ‘post Covid-19’.

On a recent visit to Homa Bay County to pay a courtesy call on the County Executive Council Member (CECM) whose docket includes Water and Sanitation, Dickson Nyawinda, I was pleasantly surprised to find so much progress towards a more resilient infrastructure.

In fidelity to the term and essence of Value Engineering practice, the CECM in close collaboration with the Governor’s Office and his counterpart in charge of Roads, Transport and Public Works, Samuel Akoko Nyaoke has completely overhauled Water and Sanitation services provision in the County by adopting and adapting best practices from all over the globe to enhance affordable and accessible quality services.

For instance, whereas some of the best-resourced towns and cities in the continent such as Cape Town and Cairo have not experienced a smooth transition to smart meters in their water provision, Homa Bay County is quietly and successfully making the transition with wide community support and resilient infrastructure as one can see from pictures taken in selected sites.

On landing at the airport and moving towards the town centre along the market and bus stage, one is immediately struck by how clean the environment is, compared to similar smaller towns in other counties.

Indeed it is no exaggeration to imagine a lakeside Kigali of sorts

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

NEWS FEATURE

earlier mentioned, has introduced consumer-friendly prepaid water meters that work excellently for the rural communities. Consumers are armed with pre-loaded cards that enable them to buy water from smart tanks that automatically read cash balances on the cards to supply precise units of 20 litres each at only five Kenya shillings.

Among other advantages, the approach ensures zero water loss, is resistant to pilfering, and is quite easy to monitor for vendors, users while visiting Homa Bay if one were and the County Government. to take into account the available As an Engineer and a Professor resources for both urban centres. of Public and Development So barely had my team sat down Management, the little that I saw in Nyawinda’s office before one of in Homa Bay convinces me that our delegation asked for the secret the lakeside town is on the right behind the cleanliness of Homa Bay track regarding resilient water and Town, given our experience a few sanitation technologies in the wake years ago of heaps and heaps of of Covid-19 and beyond. garbage in the town centre and its The last decade has seen an environs. emergence and re-emergence of As the CECM delved into a number of public health threats his approach that resulted in the in the form of highly infectious remarkable results, we could not diseases such as SARS, EVD and help but wonder how a senior lawyer Covid-19. of his calibre has transformed himself The common thread on into a ‘Water and Sanitation Engineer’ management of the mentioned cum planner/manager with such diseases is the requirement of admirable results. enhanced sanitation.

We learnt of his long continental For example, in management experience in the transformation of facilities during the Covid-19 of the water sector that has seen pandemic, the interventions him at one stage spend over seven discussed here capture two key years in Cairo working on similar undertakings.

The 650 million Kendu Bay water sanitation project that elements.

First, data sharing of cases and Coupled with a passion for has improved the town’s outlook. Photo/courtesy incidences of infections of end environmental planning and users; this ensures a track and place management and his indigenous policy instrumental in required roots in the region, Nyawinda and clean. the waste while also overseeing the quarantine measures. his team have been able to design Among residents paid by the quality of the work.

Second, facilities need to be responsive systems and interventions County Government are people The same approach has been that help keep Homa Bay Town working at the bus stage who select applied in all quarters of the town modularized into a series of semiclean and supplied with fresh water women and youth among themselves and the results speak for themselves. independent and self-isolated by employing clear and affordable that are tasked with the responsibility In a nutshell, just in this compartment units to avoid crossstrategies that involve residents, of cleaning the passenger terminus. one particular intervention, the contamination.

I believe similar towns to Homa youth, women, county workers and Their inspector was chosen Department was able to nip in the small businesses in sustainable ways. among themselves and they would bud the tendency to have cowboy Bay may have something to learn For one, long before Kazi Mtaani then clean the bus stage regularly contractors who charge an arm and a here.

Miruka is an Engineer and programme, Homa Bay was divided and as often as necessary to keep leg for waste collection and cleaning into regions for purposes of cleaning the place hygienic while getting paid services without delivering value Professor of Public and Development Management. He is the Founder and and area residents organised into salaries as employees. for money. teams that are paid monthly to keep The County Government Similarly, in order to rein in Practice Leader at Turp Consulting, their own living or working quarters provides skipper services to collect non-revenue water, the County, as a specialist Project Management company.

Why Homa Bay is as clean as Kigali

The devil’s invention that is Mzima Springs aquifer

By Pascal Mwandambo Mzima Springs, the main water source for the coastal city of Mombasa and surrounding areas is also a major tourist attraction site which should be jealously guarded.

Forever bubbling with life, it is a wonder to behold which is like a mystic fountain in an area that is perennially hot and dry.

Located in Tsavo West National Park, the springs are a major tourist attraction site with a breathtaking scenic view where visitors in need of enjoying a picnic can have a treat of a lifetime.

Visitors from tourist facilities such as Ngulia and Kilaguni Safari lodges usually crown their tour of the park by visiting the springs.

At the springs, visitors can also behold the awe inspiring famous Shetani (Devil) lava flows that derived its name from the traditional belief that volcanic activity that led to its formation was the work of evil destructive force.

Folklore in the area claims that on certain quiet nights, the screams of those who perished during the volcanic activity more than 500 years ago when

Hippos have found a comfortable home at Mzima Springs.

Photo/Pascal Mwandambo the earth heaved with fire and molten rock, burying hundreds of people alive can still be heard.

From Mzima, one can also view the bewitching Chyullu hills and the Five Sisters, small volcanic mountains which are products of the Shetani lava flows.

Daily, the Mzima springs gushes out thousands of litres of crystal clear water that feeds coastal counties with the precious commodity.

Visitors to the springs are usually thrilled by a glass house constructed

smack in the middle of the springs lake, where once inside, they can view fish dancing as if in an aquarium as well as hippos moving leisurely or snooze in the clear water.

There are also hundreds of mischievous monkeys which can be seen jumping from branch to branch of the acacia trees surrounding the springs.

All the wild animals, be they small or big, troop to the springs to quench their thirst, giving tourists and visitors an opportunity to view them at close

range and take pictures.

Being the single most important source of water for the Coast region, the Mzima pipeline has been a cause of a lot of tension for coastal counties because of inadequate water to meet needs of the ever growing population.

The Mzima 1 pipeline, constructed in 1952, is now succumbing to age, leading to frequent bursts and leakages which cause water shortages in TaitaTaveta County and other towns along the pipeline all the way to Mombasa.

Such a key water source that is both a tourist attraction and a source of water for thousands of Coastal people need to be protected and jealousy guarded.

However, selfish politics has always come by way of proposed development around the water source and neighbouring counties claiming ownership of the springs.

Tension erupted a couple of years ago when leaders from TaitaTaveta and Makueni counties claimed ownership of the water source.

On the other hand, the proposed Mzima Two pipeline has remained a pipe dream for the last two decades with political aspirants using it as a vote hunting bait.

ICRAF caution on ‘thirsty’ blue gum tree Farmers have continued to plant blue gum trees despite the environmental dangers they pose to the ecosystem, according to the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF).

In 2006, scientists from ICRAF warned against planting of eucalyptus and pine trees on riparian land citing high consumption of water, hence resulting in diminishing underground water.

Most farmers have, however, continued to plant the tree species due to the handsome financial returns in total disregard to the environmental conservation protocols.

“Eucalyptus has long been blamed for their ‘thirst’ for ground water, owing to their long tap roots, and there is scientific evidence that the species could dry up water bodies,” says ICRAF. - Our Reporter

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

NAIROBI

REGIONAL NEWS 19

Nairobi Water Company goes digital to combat corruption

By Staff Reporter The Covid-19 pandemic has come with its fair share of challenges resulting in a slowdown of economic activities in the country, as the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company (NCWSC) enhances service delivery to meet client expectations.

The NCWSC board has developed robust framework to upscale service delivery to clients in the next six months through automation and use of modern technology to inprove numerous functions of the firm’s operations.

The framework includes automation of water payment bills, meter reading and disconnection among other key functions undertaken by the Nairobi city water and sewerage company.

The firm has gone as step further and asked clients to apply for water and sewer connections online from the comfort of their homes, office desks or anywhere without necessarily having to be physically present at the NCWSC offices.

Communication channels have now been opened to ensure clients access the company’s services conveniently and hence in the long run eradicate frequent water related complaints that have been a challenge in

NCWSC Managing Director Nahashon Muguna.

Nairobi residents will now be able to report corruption cases that make service delivery a nightmare resulting in delayed or lack of services.

the recent past.

Nairobi residents will now be able to report corruption cases that make service delivery a nightmare resulting in delayed or lack of services.

The board has also vowed to eradicate water cartels and only eligible suppliers will undergo inspection and approval before being allowed to carry on with water trading activities in the city.

NCWSC will also minimize losses due to non-revenue water from the current 36 per cent to 25 per cent.

Infrastructural upgrade is another area that the firm’s board of directors is looking into to ensure seamless flow of water into residential homes and commercial premises, including the informal settlements.

Infrastructure The board, in liaison with the Office of the President through the Nairobi Metropolitan Services, and the African Union High Representative for infrastructure development, is committed to ensuring that there is increased water supply to Nairobi County.

Currently, water supply to the city and its suburbs stands at 35 per cent, less than the overall demand, hence resulting in the water rationing that

has been experienced by residents for a long time.

Board Chairperson Beryl Okumu says that the company will actualise the Northern Collector Tunnel project under construction by the national government through Athi Water Works Development Authority and build two more dams at Maragua and Ndarugo.

This bold initiative, she says, will ensure attainment of the year 2026 adequate water supply projections to meet the needs of the ever increasing demand.

In a statement, the chairperson noted: “We will ensure that water is easily and seamlessly supplied to our low income and vulnerable people especially in the informal settlements. We are already giving free water through tankers and boreholes.”

“Those living in the informal settlements must unconditionally get water especially in the current Covid-19 circumstances and beyond,” she said.

This is as a result of the deplorable living conditions of those in the informal settlement who lack access to adequate clean water,” she added.

The Ministry of Health, through its daily Covid-19 updates by the Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, has emphasized the need to wash hands on a regular basis with running water and

soap at home, business premises and public institutions, hence the need for adequate water supply.

Renewal of water and sewerage infrastructure remains a critical concern, hence the need for the firm to source for external funds to sustain the project.

So far NCWSC has managed to secure Sh18 billion from the national government for sewers extension and upgrade in the city and the targeted areas are Kawangware, Kangemi, Riruta, Waithaka, Kasarani, Embakasi among others.

The Nairobi City Water company has also embarked on the overall renewal of the water piping infrastructure that is old especially in major Nairobi estates and some major supply lines.

The reticulation pipe recently successfully repaired by the NCWSC staff members in the Aberdares forest was laid in the 1950s.

Some of the water sources that supply water through the NCWSC and need to be guarded for uninterrupted water supply have been identified as Thika dam, Ruiru dam, Kikuyu springs and Sasumua dam.

Separately, a spot check on the company’s website by The Water World newspaper led us to an interactive tab under the banner ‘online services,’ where, a client is expected to register and access the various services offered by the water company as highlighted in this print edition.

Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company is an ISO 9001 certified institution that is purely tasked with providing water and sewerage services to the residents of Nairobi.

Waste disposal guidelines to stop Covid-19 spread

By Sammy Munoko

P

oor disposal of Covid-19 personal protective gear waste can be the cause of more infections of the virus even after successful isolation of patients.

Since the first coronavirus case was reported in March this year, there has been an increase in the use of personal protective equipment (PPEs). But the waste generated by the PPEs is not being effectively disposed off, which can contribute to the spread of the disease.

It is for this reason that the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has developed National guidelines for the management of Covid-19 waste.

According to the guidelines released in August 2020, the Authority’s effort is channelled towards sustainable management of waste through securing, packaging, storage and proper disposal of biomedical and all other medical related waste during this Covid-19 period within the country to ensure a clean and safe environment.

NEMA Director General Mamo B. Mamo, who ratified the guidelines, said most of the PPEs are only used once and disposed off, which calls for caution in handling such waste.

“Most of the items, such as face masks, surgical gloves, sanitizer bottles, soap bottles and other related medical waste, are single use and can pose both cross infections and environmental risk. These guidelines seek to enhance public engagement

Mamo B. Mamo, NEMA Director-General. on the management of Covid-9 related biomedical waste which has become a huge menace in the country,” he said.

Mamo called for individual responsibility in promotion of environmental management and sustainable biomedical waste management in line with the waste management

Constant disinfection must be emphasized to ensure coronavirus transmission f ree society.

Careless disposal of used face masks can contribute to further spread of the coronavirus pandemic. regulatory framework espoused in the public health and environment waste management regulations of 2006 and internationally acceptable health standards in order to curb spread of Covid-19 pandemic in the country.

He said the increased use of the PPEs has led to massive generation of waste that is infectious.

Safety “The protective and safety materials are being used across the country in hospitals, shopping places, offices, and homes,” he said.

In general, of the total amount of waste generated by health-care activities, about 85 per cent is noninfectious while 15 per cent is considered infectious material that may be toxic or radioactive, he said.

The other key types of waste to be brought under control by NEMA include: Pathological, chemical, heavy metals and pharmaceuticals wastes. The wastes can effectively be disposed through incineration, shredding and chemical disinfection.

After the first case of coronvirus was reported in Kenya in March, the government outlined prevention measures which every person is expected to adhere to which include use of personal protective equipment such as face masks to curb further spread, use of surgical gloves for protection against surfaces or items contaminated with the virus, use of alcohol based sanitizers for cleaning the virus from hands or surfaces and the use of soaps for handwashing.

“Coronavirus can survive for a long time on surfaces and there-

fore used masks, gloves and other items may become new sources of infections if not well managed and for this reason dumpsites and recyclable waste cannot be overlooked,” warned the DG. Constant disinfection must be emphasized to ensure a coronavirus transmission free society.

The Ministry of Health will engage licensed companies to collect, transport and do the final disposal of medical waste in order to rid the public health centres of waste PPEs that are potentially harmful to both attendants and patients.

The quarantine centres have also been engaged by the MoH to ensure adherence to the waste handling and disposal procedures while undertaking their operations.

20 REGIONAL NEWS

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

KVDA donates protective gear to NOREB counties Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) has donated Covid-19 protective gear worth more than Sh10 million to counties within the North Rift Economic Block (NOREB).

The KVDA Managing Director (MD), Sammy Naporos said the donation to the eight counties was meant to supplement the national and county government’s efforts to combat the pandemic Naporos handed over the consignment that included 42, 000 face masks, hand sanitizers, water tanks and gloves among other items to the NOREB Chairman, Jackson Mandago in Eldoret recently - Dennis Bett

Kapenguria floods disrupt water supply to residents Residents of Kapenguria were shocked when they woke up and found out that water pump at Talau area had been extensively damaged by floods According to Mr. Koibei (pictured) the Director of Kapenguria water and sewerage Services Company, heavy rains pounded the highlands of Lelan, Siyoi, Kaibos, Kapkecha and the Cherangani hills resulting in floods.

-Martin Ruto

MACHAKOS

Invest in solid waste management, PS urges private sector

By Staff Reporter Ministry of Environment and Forestry Principal Secretary Dr Chris Kiptoo has called on the private sector to help in managing the solid waste problem in the country.

Dr Kiptoo has said the waste is a menace that affects most cities and major towns in the country leading to setting up of dumpsites, which are a health risk to people.

Speaking when he toured a waste recycling plant - Sanergy in Athi River, he urged the private sector to venture into the business of recycling to create opportunities and resources from the garbage.

He said the ministry had developed the Waste Management Policy and Bill that will prioritise extraction of maximum value from waste if passed into law.

Director of Environmental Education and Awareness Dr Ayub Macharia said the proposed Bill intends to create many jobs for Kenyans in the waste industry through waste recycling and composting.

Sanergy Managing Director Michael Lwoyelo said last year, Sanergy treated 12,000 tonnes of waste and is targeting to scale up its operations capacity to process about 70,000 tonnes of waste per year.

Environment PS, Dr. Chris Kiptoo plants a tree at City Park in Nairobi to commemorate the World Desertfication and Drought Day on 17th June 2020.

Photo/Staff Reporter

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Group protests Court ruling on Ogiek’s right to live in Mau forest

By Ben Leshau A Mau conservation group has petitioned Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko over alleged wanton destruction of Sasimuani section of Maasai Mau forest by intruders calling themselves members of the Ogiek community.

The Centre for Mau Forest Conservation and Restoration, led by its Director Patu Naikumi in a letter dated July 10, decried what he termed as invasion of the forest for charcoal, timber and poles destroying hundreds of acres of the key water tower.

“We are alarmed by the wanton and reckless destruction of the Maasai Mau Forest at Sasimuan.The section of the forest is now depleted as the unscrupulous people who are now leasing it for charcoal burners and timber merchants,” said Naikumi.

He claimed that the invasion of the forest came as a result of an Africa Court ruling that favoured the Ogiek Community to settle at the Mau Forest complex and practice their traditional economic activities of hunting and gathering.

“The African Court of Justice vindicated the Ogiek people right to their land and traditional way of life, but there are significant obstacles of continued destruc-

Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officers guarding Maasai Mau forest that has been hit by wanton destruction of indigeous trees. Photo/Ben Leshau tion of the Maasai Mau Forest destruction that will adequately impede enforcement of the court judgement,”claimed Naikumi.

The conservator also claimed that the Sasimuani has been turned into agro-forestry businesses, charcoal burning and a hub for felling of indigenous trees for timber that has subsequently led to establishment of agricultural activities in the area.

In the letter, Naikumi also called on the Ogiek community to adhere to sustainable forest management practices that support their traditional livelihoods as prescribed by the court.

“Delay for the Ministry of Environment task force to release recommendations and subsequent implementation,will prolong the reckless wanton destruction of the forest at Sasimuani,” he warned.

The Centre for Mau Forest Conservation and Restoration said the African Court ruling was no longer tenable given the introduction of Agro-business in Sasimuani.

The move came barely a week after the government evicted hundreds of families from Eastern part of the Mau forest in neighbouring Nakuru county.

Pastoralists urged to venture into small-scale farming

NAROK

By Bell Pere Pastoralists communities have been encouraged to invest in kitchen gardens to increase availability of food in dry seasons.

Devolution Principal Secretary Charles Sunkuli said the government is committed to helping livestock farmers practise modern farming by offering training and inputs required for small scale farming.

Sunkuli spoke at Kone Primary School in Loita ward, Narok South sub-county where he distributed food worth Sh9.5 million to five sub-locations in the ward.

The food given by the national government included 600 bags of rice and 600 bags of beans. More than 1,000 face masks will also be distributed to the most vulnerable families in the area.

The PS, who was accompanied

by Tourism Principal Secretary Fred Segor, said the donation from the national government was aimed at boosting the livelihoods of the pastoralist community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The food, he said, will be distributed by the chiefs and village elders who are expected to identify the most vulnerable families which should be given the first priority.

He urged the community to follow guidelines of the department of Health to avert the spread of coronavirus.

At the same time, the PS warned residents against engaging

PS for Devolution Charles Sunkuli planting a tree at Kone primary school in Loita. Photo/Bell Pere in retrogressive cultural practices that hinder development.

The tourism PS said his department will employ more rangers to reduce rising cases of humanwildlife conflict experienced in the area in the recent past.

He said that since 2014, the government had paid Sh120 million to Narok residents as compensation for relatives killed by wild animals and Sh10 million was given ito

compensate those injured by wild animals.

Segor however called on the residents to fence their farms and homesteads to keep off the animals from entering their premises.

The tourism PS lauded the conservancies for doing a great job in containing the animals which, he said, are a great pride and resource to the nation.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

200,000 residents to get clean water: Ottichilo More than 200,000 residents of Vihiga County will be connected to clean water by the end of next year, Governor Wilber Ottichilo has said.

He spoke during an inspection tour of the Sh1.7 billion Maseno water project that is funded by the government of Belgium.

The project was halted in March due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

“Water is a vital commodity for people and food production and that is why I pledged to end its shortage during the 2017 campaign,” Ottichillo said.

He said the project that is 90 per cent complete will produce 5,000 cubic metres daily and will serve residents of Luanda and Emuhaya sub-counties plus Maseno University.

The project will use solar panels to pump water at the Maseno, Lunyerere and Shamakhokho plants.

- Correspondent

KISUMU

KIWASCO signs sewerline deal with Chatthe Group Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company (KIWASCO) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Chatthe Group to undertake construction of sewer network from the Kenya Ports Authority sewer manhole to the company in Kisumu City. The MOU was signed in July.

KIWASCO Managing Director Thomas Odongo appreciated the Chatthe Group environmental conservation role.

The project intends to en-

REGIONAL NEWS 21 KAJIADO

VIHIGA

By Erick Nyayiera

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

sure that all institutions and households around Kibos and Kenya Ports Authority are connected to the main sewer network and waste is appropriately disposed of.

This will go a long way in reducing pollution in River Kibos, and consequently, reduce occurrence of diseases as a result of poor disposal of waste.

KIWASCO recently also entered into a partnership with Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) in bid to enhance water quality and aquatic environment management.

Kajiado water harvesting law comes into force

By Staff Reporter Kajiado County residents will from November be expected to install water harvesting and storage facilities on their buildings.

This follows a grace period of three months given after Governor Joseph ole Lenku signed the Water Harvesting Bill into law in August.

The Bill, which is the brainchild of nominated Member of County Assembly Onesmus Ngogoyo (pictured), requires all new buildings to be fitted with water harvesting facilities while owners of existing buildings will be required to instal the infrastructure within 18 months.

The new Water Harvesting Act

will ensure adequate water is harvested and stored to curb perennial water shortage challenges.

The Governor described the water Bill as a transformative legislation for the county since inception of devolution.

Ngogoyo said: “The Law provides for the County Government to construct water pans, wells and protect water sources to conserve water.”

The County Government will foot 50 per cent of the bill for construction of water harvesting and storage equipment for public institutions such as schools and hospitals.

BUNGOMA

Wangamati launches drilling rigs

By Tony Wafula Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has launched a water drilling rig to alleviate water shortage in the county.

Speaking at St. Peters Siboti Secondary School where he launched the project, Wangamati said they will now drill 45 boreholes in the entire county

to serve residents.

Sirisia and Bumula sub-counties, which are the most affected by water shortages, will be given priority.

The county government resolved to purchase its own drilling equipment instead of procuring the services from contractors to save on cost.

“This machine can drill water to

WEST POKOT

Kapenguria town lacks sewerage line, dumpsite

By Correspondent Fast population growth and development of residential and business premises in Kapenguria town has raised the need of a sewerage line.

Waste disposal is a big challenge for the county government and water sources managed by the Kapenguria Water and Sewerage Services Company.

There have been several attempts by relevant agencies to convince residents to pro-

vide land for sewerage treatment plant and the process is ongoing.

The company has urged people to construct septic tanks which will collect the waste products as it expedites constructing ovens which will process the waste products into solid blocks to be used as charcoal.

The company transports the waste products from the county to Trans Nzoia where the materials are processed into other useful products.

Pipes suplying water to Kapenguria.

Governor Wycliffe Wangamati inspecting newly acquired Bungoma County borehole drilling equipment. Photo/Tony Wafula

a level of 350 metres underground but we are lucky water in Bungoma is less than100 metres deep,’’ he said.

The County government is also developing the Sh80 million Mt. Elgon water tower project, which will serve residents in the lower areas of Chwele, Sirisia and Kabuchai.

Meanwhile, teachers and pupils at St. Peters Secondary School Siboti, Bumula Sub-County in Bungoma County shed tears of joy when GovernorWycliffe Wangamati launched a water drilling project at the institution.

Chief Principal Wenslaus Masika said the water shortage at the school and the entire Siboti area was a big challenge.

“I use parents and students to bring water to school and this is now a relief,’’ he said.

The water project will also serve the neighbouring community. Siboti residents walk for more than 7kms to fetch water which puts female students in danger of being attacked apart from time wastage, he said.

The Board of Management Chair Peninah Namusasi welcomed the project.

KAJIADO

County to double Kiserian dam capacity Our Reporter The Kajiado County Government is fast-tracking the increase of Kiserian dam water handling capacity from 1.2 million to 2.5 million cubic liters.

The move is expected to ensure adequate water supply to Oloolaiser Water and Sewerage Company (OWSC) for further distribution to end users in Kajiado North and Kajiado West sub counties.

Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku endorsed the desalination and expansion of the mega Kiserian dam in order to meet the high water demand when he visited the area last month.

He directed the water com-

pany to review and restructure its internal systems and stop the frequent water disconnections.

“Reliable supply of water

by Oloolaiser is not negotiable.

Our people need clean and fresh water without further delay,” he said.

OWSC has four main water sources namely Kiserian dam, Mbagathi River, 18 boreholes and two springs (University and Oltiyani) and it produces approximately 7,500m3 per day with a customer base of 11,262 connections.

Currently, the company has 7,460 active and 3,622 inactive connections and operates 35 water kiosks in Ongata Rongai, Ngong, Kiserian and KaharaMatasia.

A section of the Kiserian dam.

22 REGIONAL NEWS

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

KISII

Kisii County Govt addresses environmental challenges

By Enock Okong’o Car washing sheds constructed by the Kisii county government are among the major polluters of rivers in the region.

In Kisii town and its environs, the sheds constructed at Nyanchwa Springs, Daraja Mbili and Daraja Moja by the government are at the riverside.

Calls by residents to the county government to keep the environment safe have been ignored.

They say the county government has embarked on the development in disregard of taking care of the environment.

The county government through the ward representatives has now agreed to set aside money to protect the water springs.

The initiative has, however. seen MCAs accuse some of those constructing the springs of poor workmanship.

The rivers are a health hazard because the water is also used by market attendants.

Aquatic creatures like crabs, water beetles, tadpoles and fish that contribute to the symbiotic environmental balance are also endangered.

County government critics say it ought to have consulted widely with environment experts before its establishment of the sheds despite the fact the initiative was to create employment for the youth.

Elgeyo Marakwet

Elgeyo Marakwet sets up team to reclaim wetlands

By Philemon Kiprop A special committee will be tasked with reclaiming wetlands grabbed in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

People who grabbed the wetlands have been directed to leave the water catchment areas to facilitate the reclamation County Commissioner Ahmed Omar said the committee comprising of county and national government officers, will look at original title deeds to identify areas illegally acquired by grabbers.

Speaking at Kiprira swamp where 1,000 acres have been grabbed, he said proper documentation will assist the county deal with rampant encroachment of wetlands.

“We will ask the Cabinet Secretary for Lands to revoke illegal title deeds and provide a lasting solution to this problem,” he said.

Omar said reclaimed areas will be marked by beacons to stop encroachment and also asked chiefs to arrest persons found farming on wetlands.

The meeting was called after residents of Kabiemit location in Keiyo South sub-county stopped a settler who had started cultivating the Kiprira swamp.

The alleged grabber produced a title deed for the piece of land and even threatened to go to court to sue the residents.

The residents accused some officials of issuing illegal title deeds to grabbers.

The County Police Commander John Mwinzi assured residents that they will be protected because the place was a wetland and therefore belonged to the public.

Elgeyo Marakwet County Commissioner Ahmed Omar plants a tree during a conservation of wetlands event at the Kiprira swamp.

Photo/Philemon Kiprop

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Ministry donates medical equipment to Nakuru County

By Our Reporter The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the County Government of Nakuru to strengthen national waste management efforts, in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic.

Donations include key functional items for the full waste management process from triage to disposal, as well as personal protective equipment (PPEs).

Speaking while handing over the equipment at Nakuru Level 5 hospital, Environment PS Chris Kiptoo said the donation comes at an opportune moment when the country is experiencing the Covid-19 pandemic.

The PS said the offer will ensure sound healthcare disposal technologies through the adoption of Best Available Technology (BAT) and Best Environmental Practices (BEP).

The PS said waste management equipment and two incinerators purchased with financing from Global

Nakuru Governor, Lee Kinyanjui.

Environment Facility (GEF), at a cost of 80 million will benefit Nakuru Level 5, Molo and Naivasha hospitals.

Apart from Nakuru, the equipment will be distributed to 13 pilot health centres in Kisumu, Mombasa, and

Nairobi counties.

The PS was accompanied

by Nakuru County Governor Lee Kinyanjui and UNDP Country Representative Walid Badawi.

TAITA TAVETA

Voi residents urged to protect indigenous trees

By Dominic Maraga Voi sub county residents have been urged to help conserve endangered indigenous trees in public and private farm forests.

Speaking at his Voi office the Sub-County Forest Officer Raphael Mlacha said indigenous trees were getting depleted due to the quality of wood they produce.

He said trees like Acacia, Mvule and Tamalia Prenoid among others are among the highly endangered species.

He said logs are used in kilns for burning bricks, charcoal and other personal benefits leading to the extinction of the indigenous trees.

“We are worried over the rate at which people are cutting down these indigenous trees for their personal benefit because they produce quality wood and expensive charcoal,” said Mlacha.

He said the trees should be protected because most of the endangered species are used for medicinal purposes.

Harsh weather conditions and

both domestic and wild animals also continue to pose great challenge to forest cover in the Sub-county.

“We raise seedlings here and give them out to institutions, individuals and privately owned forests to help increase the forest cover in the sub county,” he said.

Only people with permits who meet set guidelines from the department are allowed to cut trees and where necessary an officer is sent to check the trees.

KITUI

Deforestation hampers beekeeping

By Lydia Ngoolo Kitui County is set to upscale honey production through enhancing water basins and setting up tree nurseries although deforestation has become a major challenge.

County value chain addition specialist, Temi Mutia says deforestation is a major challenge to high honey production.

He however assured farmers that they will succeed through value addition.

“We are only remaining with few tree species because of massive cutting for charcoal burning which reduces pollination,” said Mutia.

He urged youths to join cooperatives in order to scale up bee-keeping in the county.

Kiomo-Kyethani Bee Keepers Co-operative Chairman Stephen Kioko thanked the county government for training bee

Kitui County value chain addition specialist Temi Mutia with bee-keeping farmers in Mwingi. Photo/Lydia Ngoolo keepers to increase quantity and quality of honey.

The cooperatives have received harvesting buckets, smokers, bee suits among other relevant equipment from the

county government.

Kioko said the County has five bee farmer cooperatives with over 10,000 members and 100,000 beehives where 70 per cent are colonized.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Run-off water solution to Kenya’s woes?

By Ngugi Njoroge Despite having huge rainwater potential estimated to be more than 350 billion cubic metres, Kenya is letting the critical resource drain away to the Indian Ocean.

Unfortunately, some of the barriers in harvesting the unexploited runoff rainwater are attributable to archaic laws which prohibit commercial and residential premises to invest in rainwater.

For example, rooftop rainwater harvesting is prohibited in Nairobi by authorities because it is seen as competing with the Nairobi water company, which earns income from selling water as a utility provider.

But according to experts like Maimbo Malesu, the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF’s) Program me Co-ordinator for Water Management, if rainwater is captured and managed, the water is enough to support a population of 233 million people or close to five times the current population of Kenya.

Rain floods at Kianjai in Tigania West. Photo/John Majau This gains urgency considering, Kenya is considered a water scarce country. Its per capita water availability is less than 600 cubic metres, which is below the global threshold of 1,000 cubic metres per capita.

While Nairobi County is lagging behind, neighbouring counties are already blazing the trail in putting in place the right environment for rain water harvesting.

As a way of enhancing its capac-

ity to cater for its demands, grow more food, produce electricity and facilitate nurturing of the biodiversity, Kajiado County on August 4, 2020 made it mandatory for new private and commercial buildings to have water harvesting and storage facilities before their plans are approved.

The new Act by Governor Joseph ole Lenku has, however, stated that there will be no extra charges for the new building approvals.

SPECIAL REPORTS 23

“There will be 90 days’ grace period given while existing buildings will be required to comply in 18 months,” he said at the Kajiado County offices.

Bearing in mind that Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company is facing numerous challenges in serving close to five million residents, Nairobi Metropolitan Service (NMS) Director General Mohammed Badi can borrow a leaf from his neighbour’s book to end the suffering of the residents, according to experts.

Satisfy demand Malesu earlier indicated that Nairobi water security, in terms of meeting demand and storage capability, is very low and more avenues need to be explored to satisfy demand.

“The city has to meet a demand of 770,000 cubic metres a day. Its current supply is 550,000 per day.

But only half gets to the public as about 40 per cent is lost on account of non-revenue water,” he noted.

Nairobi Water Managing Director Eng Nahashon Muguna, however, had not commented on whether the company should embrace harvesting of rainwater by the time of going to press.

The World Agroforestry Centre has been promoting rainwater harvesting in sub-Saharan Africa through a

southern and Eastern Africa network.

If Kenya were to take into account good rainwater harvesting practices, Malesu noted, it would not only ensure the country has sufficient water to meet its needs in the dry periods, but would also ensure when it does rain, the risk of damage and flooding is less.

The government and partners from the development and business communities in 2017 launched the Kenya chapter of the Billion Dollar Alliance for Rainwater Harvesting, a continent-wide, multi-actor alliance designed to scale up farm pond technology for agribusiness and livelihood resilience for dryland farming systems.

The partnership was led by the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), which hosted the launch event, and the World Food Programme, and includes the co-operation of the national government and private sector partners.

Water scarcity has been earmarked as a critical constraint to the country’s socio-economic development and achievement of Kenya’s Vision 2030 as well as the global development agenda detailed in the Sustainable Development Goals.

The situation is exacerbated by climate change and increasing water demand due to population growth and urbanisation.

Tana River boat people restore ancient kingship

By Amoto Dennis Jubilation rent the air across the chocolate coloured waters of the mighty River Tana as Mzee Abdullahi Waldessa piloted the ceremonial twin dugout canoe to the right flank.

The special canoe pierced through the dancing surf before the flyover headed for a cultural ceremony for the Wailuwana community also known as the boat people.

They are a small community numbering 21,432 people among Tana River County’s 315,943 residents but who have maintained their traditional way of life.

Donning a red fez, signifying his cultural duties, the Wailuwana King, Babisani Ramadhani Divayu, and an all male council of elders sat in the boat.

In a deep baritone voice, they sang a hymn that blended with voices of hundreds devoted subjects whose weight and thudding feet threatened to tear the bridge’s floor.

Adecade ago, the boat people navigated the same route, when reviving the kingship to seek identity.

British colonialists abolished the reign of King Babisani’s predecessor Hayu Duke Makaruka in 1938.

Hayuship was a rallying point against the colonial government and the temporal deity Makaruka wielded more powers over his subjects than the colonialists.

The two centres of powers couldn’t coexist but Wailuwana known, derogatorily as ‘Malokote,’ have revived, the Hayuship 70 years later.

Restoration was a unifying ground to seek identity and retain a cultural landscape.

The theme was revitalization, preservation, and promotion of Wailuwana culture for desirable behaviour and community development.

The Wailuwana say, though they are of Bantu lineage, speaking a Swahili Bantu dialect, they are distinctive from those originating from the Congo forest.

They claim to have sailed from Comoro Isles across, the Indian Ocean to Ungwana Bay and landed in Kipini.

They then boated northwards, settling in hamlets known as Gaza or Daido in Garsen, Chewele, Mui, Nanigi and Sala along River Tana.

To the Wailuwana ‘boat people’ River Tana is as sacred as River Ganges is to the Hindus. They call it Galena Maro and it is their lifeline..

The river is used for many cultural rites, including child naming ceremonies and other functions in the Wailuwana community.

After birth, a child stays indoors for 40 days after birth (Hirimani) after which a relative of good character walks out the infant outdoors for baptism.

An elaborate ceremony follows as the 40 day old baby is taken for riverine initiation in ‘holy’ River Tana waters.

Members of the Waliuwana community in a procession during a festival in Madogo. Photo/ The Wailuwana say, Dennis Amoto though they are A parent who infringes the Hiri- they often rush into its waters for safety. ing, fish traps, farming along the river of Bantu lineage, mani rites is treated as being unfaithSafety apart, in the yesteryears and cultural tourism using the boat. speaking a Swahili ful and faces punitive measures by a eight or more dugout canoes were Indigenous vegetation along the Bantu dialect, they jury trial. twined together, with a house built river is, however, now threatened by are distinctive from Waliuwana Chief Justice Lady atop for a bride and bridegroom after deforestation and charcoal burning.

Lower Tana is home to critically those originating from Hadula Jilo said the convict can be marriage. banished from their beloved riverside Aides would cruise the holy Tana endangered Mangabey and red colobus the Congo forest. abode. waters for a seven day travel on the monkeys.

They claim to have “This earns the offender societal river without stepping on land.

Tana Deputy Governor Salim sailed from Comoro ridicule where all and sundry share They carried food and some wet Keya said the Wailuwana cultural nothing with the victim even talking, clay to cook aboard during the hon- royalty’s roles involve arbitration, Isles across, the until cleansing is done,’’ said Lady eymoon that has been replaced by a annual cultural festival, overseeing Indian Ocean to Hadula, adding that the offender can wedding couple’s seven hours river youth matters, community history and Ungwana Bay and be fined. cruise, followed by elders’ ritual bless- storytelling.

In contrast, a faithful couple after ing along the river.

The Wailuwana Kingdom is guided landed in Kipini. the ceremonial Hirimani 40 days often Tana River County Woman Repre- by Hayu Babisani, a university graduThey then boated a party for folk blessing and sentative Rehema Hassan notes: “Our ate, who is deputized Hayu by Said northwards, settling throws makes merry after visiting the ‘holy’ educated young nowadays ostracize Karan, a man well versed in the boat in hamlets known River Tana. girls who have undergone Female people’s cultural aspects.

Wailuwana Chanamaro (River- Genital Mutilation (FGM) and abhor The boatpeople say trees breathe as Gaza or Daido in ines), who pay dowry using beehives, arranged marriages.’’ life into biodiversity and deforestaGarsen, Chewele, protected from drowning or being She said education and advocacy tion kills sacred spiritually significant Mui, Nanigi and Sala are harmed by any riverine beast through by the Wailuwana Council of Elders, indigenous trees like Kote, under which along River Tana. is helping phase out FGM. divine powers. they gather for prayer.

To the boat people, River Tana is a place for solace, and when in danger,

Livelihood is tailored towards riverine activities like fishing by spear-

24 ENVIRONMENT

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

NEMA blocks firms’ bid to establish multi-million farms in Amboseli

By Abdi Hussein husseinabdi527@gmail.com The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has not approved the multimillion agri-business farms within the Amboseli Ecosystem in Kajiado County in line with the new Amboseli Ecosystem Management Plan (AEMP) 2020-2030.

Several companies and individuals had applied for permits to carry out agriculture within the Kimana wildlife circuit that comprises several private wildlife conservancies and the Amboseli National Park.

Some private developers had already sub-divided some of the land and began farming as small urban centres and villages cropped up, greatly reducing the area available for wildlife and pastoralism in the ecosystem.

Among the areas that are affected is the Kaputei area that is heavily settled and fenced leading to the virtual collapse of wildlife migratory patterns.

Namelok and Kimana swamps, the Lolturesh River, all the way down to the Soit Pus Swamp and areas around Iltilal have also been subdivided, settled and farmed.

To safeguard the wildlife and tourism in the area, stakeholders recently developed the management plan that has been enacted into law and is awaiting gazettement by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, The plan protects migratory routes and spells out specific land use in various parts but restricts farming activities within the Kimana wildlife circuit.

Kajiado NEMA director Joseph Kopejo told The Water World that they rejected the proposals af-

ter realizing the proposed farms are within the restricted areas as per Ecosystem plan.

Both local and foreign developers have acquired big chunks of land planning to set up multimillion Agri-business farming enterprises “We have so far rejected two multimillion proposed agricultural farms and we are analysing documents of three other companies which have applied for the same,” said Kopejo.

A warning has been issued to individuals conducting farming in the area without NEMA approvals and some farms might be forced to halt operations.

“NEMA will not be used as a rubber stamp by selfish individu-

The Amboseli Ecosystem Plan It is an integrated plan that outlines how different land uses and natural resources in the, ecosystem will be managed for the greater good of all stakeholders.

The plan takes a broad multi-sectoral approach on natural resources in the ecosystem against different land uses and how these interact with one another and, ultimately, how they co-exist within the ecosystem.

Various stakeholders and KWS officials collaring an elephant at Amboseli National Park Kajiado on August 12. Photo/Abdi Hussein als. We will carry out our mandate objectively as stipulated in the law. Systems will be rolling once the plan becomes a law by act of gazettement,” added Kopejo.

According to the Chairman Amboseli Land Owners Conservancy Association (Aloca), Samuel Kaangi, land subdivision in the area continues to threaten wildlife existence.

Over the years wildlife from Amboseli National Park have roamed freely within communal ranches, some which provide wildlife migratory routes from Amboseli to Tsavo National and Kyulu Hills national parks.

Most of the ranches have over the last few years, been subdivided into private pieces of land making owners an easy prey to land speculators.

“Some people feel they have not reaped enough benefits for

conserving wildlife and are now disposing of their land to developers eyeing the land for agriculture and the hospitality industry thus endangering wildlife,” said Kaangi.

Senior government officers have also been blamed for using their positions to acquire land in the conservancies despite protests from Aloca members and their leaders.

“Aloca officials have received threats from powerful people in government who work with land brokers to demand that we cede our land,” says Kaangi.

He is, however, optimistic that AEMP will be integrated with the County Spatial Plan and the County Integrated Development Plans to be more effective.

Aloca has continuously thwarted mushrooming of development projects within the Kima-

Embu Water Company to buy fittings from local hardwares

By Kamundia Muriithi Embu Water and Sanitation Company (Ewasco) has partnered with the local hardware stores to improve service delivery.

The company will now procure fittings and accessories locally, a development that is expected to reduce time taken to connect water to customers.

The company which

was previously sourcing the fittings and accessories from Nairobi, will now purchase them from designated local hardware stores across the county.

The partnership is also expected to promote local businesses and enhance cordial relations with the local community “The company will be directing its clients looking for water connection to the

designated hardwares shops within their locality,” said the company’s Financial and Commercial Services Controller Dickson Njiru.

Selected hardware shops will be approved and accredited as agents of the company.

The company convened a meeting for senior Ewasco officials and the hardware partners who will be providing the fittings.

EWASCO senior officials led by the Financial and Commercial Services Controller Dickson Njiru (centre) after meeting with various hardware owners.

Njiru said through the partnership, the company will be able to connect water to customers within the stipulated period of one week.

Due to ongoing massive construction of residential and commercial buildings, Ewasco is expecting to make over 250 new water connections.

Njiru urged the approved hardware stores to stock high quality fittings and other accessories.

“The company will be monitoring to verify whether they will be complying, failure to which we will cancel the accreditation,” said Njiru.

Vandalism of pipes happens mostly during dry periods and the worst hit areas are the lower region of Embu where residents need water to irrigate their muguka (khat) farms.

Culprits caught pay a penalty of Sh100,000 or face three years in jail according to the Act of 2016.

na circuit despite protests from land developers but land subdivision still remains the biggest challenge to the existence of Amboseli National park.

The management of private conservancies has urged the Ministry of Tourism to increase financial support to help them continue conserving wildlife on their ranches.

KWS shares proceeds from tourism with six private conservancies neighboring the Amboseli National Park.

During the World Elephant Day recently commemorated in Amboseli National Park, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala lauded AEMP saying wildlife conservation is a collective task and promised to gazette AEMP forthwith.

Mazingira Africa drills boreholes in 15 schools Mazingira Africa, a NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO), has initiated environmental conservation projects in 150 schools and also drilled 15 water boreholes.

The organisation’s President and Founder Javan Kevins Namema says they are lobbying for sustainable environmental conservation agenda in the country through initiation of project development and stakeholder partnership.

He told The Water World

that they are at the forefront of promoting environmental conservation through creation of awareness, forming unions and community support.

The NGO has undertaken several projects geared towards promotion of the forest cover in the country through the support of local communities.

“We have planted more than one million trees since 2017,” he noted.

-Our Reporter

Mazingira Africa Founder Javan Kevins Namema (centre) with Eco kids brand ambassadors.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

By Andanje Wakhungu

J

osephine Adhiambo is a woman on a mission and her task is simple- to keep three subcounties in Kakamega County clean.

TheKakamegaNorthRegionalEnvironmentOfficerhasstrived toensurethatgarbagecollected inurbancentresintheregionis safely disposed of.

She was first employed at the Kakamega County Assembly where she ensured the environment was ecofriendly.

Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed as she was later promoted to her current position because of the hard work.

The unassuming woman ensures that residents within the sub counties live in a clean environment away from pollution caused by careless disposal of waste.

TheHumanResourceManagement degree holder and CertifiedSecretarystartedoffas aSuperintendentinthecounty government.

Noticed Senior officials noticed her penchantforacleanenvironment andsawitfittoelevatehertothe position she holds now.

“IbroughtonboardtheRentokilCompanyLtdwhichsupplied uswithairfreshenersandcollectionbinstodisposeofdirtduring mytenureatthecounty,”notes Adhiambo.

Before she arrived at the county,areassuchastheRegional Commissioner’spremises,Kakamegahospitalandthemortuary area always had mountains of garbage.

She ensured that those areas were free from garbage and also improved the environment in areas surrounding public institutions.

“The huge piles of garbage

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

andunbearableodourwereabig problembutIensuredthatRentokilalwayscametoemptythetrash binsandprovidenecessaryguidelinesonhowwelltoconserveour environment,” she said.

She attributes her success to the cordial working relationship she had with residents who understood the need of keeping the environment clean and safe.

“We have many arrogant people who feel they cannot be directedonwhattodowiththeir wasteandsomehavebeenvery negative and rebellious but we have slowly made them understand,” Adhiambo stated.

Sheisdedicatedtoensuring thereisacleanenvironmenteven ifsheistakentoanotherdepartment.

“Even if you take me to the morgue, I will transform it into a better place for everyone as what a man can do a woman can do better” she said.

She has changed the attitude of market traders who have now learned through her simple approach how to

SPECIAL FEATURES 25 collect and dump their garbage at one collection point.

In the past, litter was scattered within the market, posing health hazard to the residents especially children.

She is also in charge of women, youth and persons living with disabilities who the county has engaged in garbage collection and drainage system management.

Adhiambo also oversees the management of utility bills including water and electricity to see that they are remitted on time.

She works with security officials within relevant institutions to monitor the smooth disposal of waste and also takes charge of performance appraisal of her team.

Hermainchallengehasbeen insufficientworkingtoolswhich she is pushing to get in the near future.

Josephine Adhiambo

Meet woman with passion for clean environment

Dumping site They have only one tractor thatservesthethreesubcounties whichmakesitdifficulttocollect theamountofgarbageproduced.

The issue is however being addressed by opening a dumping site at Mung’anga in Mumias instead of transporting the garbage to Rosterman in Kakamega town.

The county government will also in the near future acquire land in Malava to set up another site to service the nearby sub counties effectively.

She heaped praise on the County Chief Officer who she said offers lasting solutions to the many challenging environment matters.

“Ihavealsoengagedthesub countywardadministratorswho arealsoenlighteningthelocalson theimportanceofenvironmental conservationandsofarthingsare looking up,” she said.

WAJIR

Govt constructs Sh140m dam for Lenana School

By Our Reporter Lenana School in Nairobi has benefited from a Sh140 million dam project constructed by the national government to address water shortages.

The 163,000 cubic metre capacity dam is expected to boost irrigation operations for the school and farmers in the area.

The dam and the 2.1km external sewer line that connects the school to the main sewer line were constructed at a cost of Sh81.6 million and Sh59.1 million respectively.

Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Charles Hinga who handed over the project, said the dam will provide enough water for irrigation.

“Lenana dam will provide a

urban water management initiatives within the Nairobi metropolitan area to provide sufficient water to the residents.

The PS further noted that the two sewer lines within the school will enhance waste disposal and improve school hygiene.

The School’s Board Chairman Samson Ndegwa who received the project on behalf of the institution assured the PS that the school and the community stands to reap maximum benefits in terms of agricultural production and maintenance Housing PS Charles Hinga hands a document of the golf course.

The funding was provided to Lenana School Board Chairman Dr. Samson by the National Government Ndegwa during handing over of a dam project and the World Bank while the funded by the national government. construction work was underreliable water source for irriga- tive urban agriculture,” Hinga taken by the Ministry of Houstion as the project aims to har- said. ing and Urban Development.

The project is part of the ness storm water for demonstra-

Man-made lake boon for locals Lake Yahud in Wajir County that was created from a quarry abandoned by an Israeli construction company, is a major water source in the area.

The company excavated the quarry when it was building Wajir International Airport in 1978.

The lake situated 5kms away from Wajir town, gained a new status of significance after a sub clan of the Makabul tribe chose to conduct an annual spiritual rite there.

Unlike other artificial lakes or reservoirs used to store water for community use just like most wells in Wajir County, the lake’s water, is hard and salty,’’ said Wajir NEMA Director Dr Mohamud Hashir.

-Amoto Dennis

26 ENVIRONMENT

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kiambu ordered to stop discharge of sewage into drainages

By Moses Saruni The National Environment Complaints Committee (NECC) has asked Kiambu County to stop discharge of untreated sewage into storm water drains leading to pollution of water sources in Kikuyu sub-county.

The committee said raw sewage discharge was contaminating water in Ondiri swamp and Nyongara River among other water sources in the area.

“The discharge is a nuisance that poses a health risk to the

users in the area and should be stopped,” said NECC officials after meeting county government officials.

In an effort to control release of raw sewage from apartments, it was proposed that notices be served to apartment owners to stop the discharge of untreated sewage into the open environment.

They also proposed that septic tanks in each building should have different colours so as to identify those who are releasing the untreated sewage into the environment.

Other measures were that the County Environment Day be introduced to sensitize the public on proper waste management, clean-ups and trees planting.

The Sub-County administrator said there are plans to have a centralized sewage system with the help of World Bank.

Car wash operators were urged to have soak pits or interceptors for better waste management system, while individual responsibility to safeguard the environment was also emphasized as a major weapon to curb pollution.

The NECC team during a meeting with Kikuyu Sub-County Environment Officer Hannah Njoroge.

Grand plans to conserve endangered Malava forest

By Andanje Wakhungu The community living around Malava forest is expected to play a pivotal role in its conservation if a plan mooted by stakeholders will be approved by the County government of Kakamega.

The Malava Community Forest Association has been mandated by the community to conserve and protect the forest from exploitation.

Chairman James Shihuma said they have structured programmes including conservation, protection, livelihood and administration to safeguard the forest.

To achieve its goals, the Community Based Organisation (CBO) has outlined measures that will be beneficial to the locals and forest.

They have written to the Kakamega County government explaining their intention to establish several incomegenerating activities within the forest in conjunction with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS).

Malava forest is under threat from massive pollution of rivers by two sugar companies operating in the area and solid waste disposal from urban centres.

The CBO was formed in 2007 under the Environment Act (2005) which stipulates that each forest area should have one for conservation purposes.

The Secretary Stanley Chiveti, says they currently have 500 members who are grouped in various user groups.

The association uses the plantation establishment livelihood scheme group commonly referred to as Pelis to monitor farmers who grow short term crops as they also plant tree seedlings in the forest.

Farmers also graze their cattle in some areas while others are allowed to harvest grass for livestock feed.

The timber and firewood group monitors those allowed to collect fallen tree branches while timber harvesting is done following due

process established by KFS. Other community members will be allowed by the association to set up fish ponds and beehives as a source of income.

They are also enlightening women and youths on the importance of bee keeping and fish farming to stop them from logging.

The ecotourism group guides visitors around the forest where they can view a range of wildlife like monkeys, baboons, snakes, birds and different tree species.

The association has grand plans of setting up eco-tourism hotels and lodges but is impeded by lack of funding.

Water Resources Association is also considering setting up a water facility in the forest to bottle fresh mineral water from source.

Scouts work with forest rangers to ensure no illegal business goes on in the forest.

They have together with KFS demarcated the forest regions into three sections namely the conserved, protected and plantation forest areas.

Conservation forest section is where nothing is supposed to take place because it is the source of river Nambilima.

At the livelihood section the association assists KFS to keep vigil because locals are allowed to plant maize and beans through Pelis as they plant and care for existing ones.

The locals pay some registration fee to the association and the KFS to be allowed to farm and the exercise is renewed annually.

Since its inception in 2018, the association had planted over 130,000 trees through the shamba system or Pelis programme.

Over 50,000 bags of maize have been harvested with the canopy of the forest having greatly improved.

Although the community has been educated on the importance of conserving the forest and environment, the biggest challenge has been lack of a

Baboons scavanging for foodstuffs along the Malava forest highway. Locals residing in the forest often dump foodstuffs that attract the primates. Photo/Andanje Wakhungu

Plans by Kakamega County government to provide landfills for garbage in urban areas will not resolve the mess anytime soon.

A notice of intention to develop the Malava waste management plan has become elusive.

The town currently serves as the headquarters for Malava Sub County and is also a commercial, transport, industrial, and eco-hub bordering the forest.

garbage dumping site.

Shihuma complains that the Kakamega County government has failed to provide a landfill for garbage disposal leading to piles of solid waste being dumped in the forest.

The garbage is dumped there at night when the scouts who offer security are at home.

The most affected area borders residential homes around Malava town where waste ranging from metals, plastics, glass bottles, contraceptives, sanitary pads and parts of electronic devices are dumped.

“We have written to the county government over the matter but they are yet to respond,” said Shihuma.

The Malava tropical forest sits on 718.8 acres out of which 439.9 acres are under protection and conservation. The plantation area is 269.9 acres and the wetland occupies four acres.

KFS sub-county acting officer for Malava and Matete Rhoda Ombwara said the forest area near urban centres with no dumping sites will likely be turned into one as it is the only available option for the residents and business people.

She has urged stakeholders to assist in the preservation of the forest besides visiting the community living along the forest and enlightening them to start protecting it for future generations.

“I’m happy that through the goodwill and the CBO, they have been able to improve exotic tree planting from the initial 10,000 when she reported at the station to 50,000 in hardly a month,” she noted..

The Malava KFS station does not have a vehicle for patrols and she is banking on the administration police to assist her move around.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

TOURISM AND WILD LIFE 27

Tourism in Northeastern threatened by terrorism

By Dennis Ochieng Retired wildlife warden Hajji Ogle vividly recalls that northeastern Kenya once teemed with large numbers of different species of wildlife in parks that were untapped tourism resources.

In the early 1960s, the region was awash with the now dwindling herds of herbivores like elephants, buffaloes, bush pig, warthogs, Grevy zebras, gerenuk antelope, Topi , Hirola, the greater and lesser kudus and hippopotamus.

In addition, the arid region was populated with the now threatened carnivorous predators like lions, vulnerable wild dogs and the extremely rare aardwolf.

The region, known as the Northern Tourism Circuit, also had a large variety of birds and is still an Important Bird Area (IBA) with species like the Sokoke Pipit being a major attraction to watchers.

Speaking at a recent Tourism Protection Service (TPS) conference in Garissa, Ogle narrated to stakeholders the work warden Ken Smith did in 1976 on wildlife in Boni and Dodori national reserves.

Ogle said that unlike today when Somali refugees kill wildlife for bush meat and trophy that wasn’t the case in the past.

Killing wildlife for whatever reason was an abomination which no self-respecting Somali dared do and people like his own father, the former renowned Wajir Paramount Chief Ogle had a gun for scaring jumbos that blocked those going to fetch water instead of shooting them.

Wajir NEMA County Director Hashi Mohamud says despite the security challenges posed to humans and wildlife by Somali refugees, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties still have a great tourism potential.

“We are sitting on wildlife goldmine for tourism the region has besides wildlife, great landscape, weather, the rich Somali culture which are great tourism products worth selling to local and international tourists,” stated Mohamud.

Ogle also extols the relaxed African way of life which astounds Europeans giving an example of his American friends, he says, are often surprised to see how hassle-

A man poses for a photo next to giraffes at Bouralgi Giraffe Santuary in free Africans Garissa town. Photo/Dennis Amoto are despite the challenges of hunger, leather work besides food, dances ful western countries do not deliver drought, war, disease and poverty. are major tourism attractions. travel advisories like they do in He qualifies that saying there “If the Kamba, Maasai curios Kenya. is poverty amidst plenty within are selling their wares why not He noted that with safety is a our borders, pointing at Bouralgi start a cottage industry for Somali challenge because of the porous giraffe sanctuary, 6km south of Ga- wares like skin, knives, pillows,” Kenya-Somalia border, but added rissa town, where investors have poses former Garissa and now ol that with good markiting even the build hotels for tourists who come Donyo Sabuk Warden Polycarp Dadaab refugee camp would be a to the area to watch and interact Okuku. huge tourist attraction. with giraffes.

Tourism Officer Lorna NyamOkuku urged residents to marHe adds that other products ket local and international tourism weya speaking to County Press like the Somali sword, metal and and noted that top world tourism noted that northeastern is a tourcountries like Egypt and South Af- ism goldmine, adding: “Boni rica get 70% to 80% earnings from people living in the forest praclocal tourism to grow the economy. tice an indigenous way of life and He is, however, worried about their home Boni Forest is listed in insecurity in the volatile region IUCN category five protected area with sustainable use of natural rewhich should be addressed.

He added that through co-or- sources.”

She, however, decried the dination efforts between different arms of the government with the poaching and logging in the forest tourism sector, they can engage in which used to be a dry season sancmarketing northeastern as a desti- tuary for elephants that are now under threat. nation of choice.

Climate change, poaching, deHe thanked Kenyan Somalis for sparing wildlife unlike the refu- forestation and the threat from the gees who are hell-bent on wiping Al-shabaab insurgents are the bigout the wildlife heritage. He said gest challenges that endanger the Northern Carmine that in countries like Egypt terror- rich unique untapped northeastern bee eater ists target tourists, but then power- tourism industry, she noted.

Kajiado tree planting plan comes of age

By Obegi Malack obegimalack@gmail.com Kajiado North Sub County has developed a clever strategy that will see residents of all ages getting involved in increasing tree cover in the area.

The strategy dubbed ‘Plant Your Age Day’ was mooted through the establishment of a tree nursery which supplied the initial 400 tree seedlings planted recently.

All residents will participate in the tree planting exercise where each is expected to plant the number of trees that is equivalent to their age during the rainy season.

Green Africa Foundation Chairperson, Dr. Isaac Kalua said Plant Your Age Initiative encourages Kenyans to endeavor to plant trees equivalent to their ages and ensure that they grow.

The initiative also advocates love among communities and treatment of people kindly through upholding ethics, training on life skills and promoting good health.

As peace prevails within communities, the programme will also create sustainable livelihoods and in the process promote environmental conservation, he added. Kajiado County Executive Member in charge of Water, Irrigation, Environment and Natural Resources Michael Semera said the county government encourages everyone to plant

Kajiado North MP Joseph Manje (squatting, centre), Kajiado CECM Water, Irrigation and Environment Michael Semera (left) and Green Africa Foundation Chairperson Isaac Kalua plant a tree during the ‘Plant Your Age Initiative’ launch in Kajiado North . Photo/Obegi Malack trees for it to attain the 10 percentage forest cover.

The county has one tree nursery in Kajiado town and is planning to set up more in

every sub-county besides the new nursery at the Kajiado North Sub County.

‘Currently we have 20,000 seedlings and we are enhancing the number to 80,

000 because we have been giving trees to schools and churches to plant,” said Semera.

Kajiado County has 7.14 percent forest cover, according to statistics from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), which says 7.01 percent had been destroyed in the last ten years.

Ewaso Ngiro South Development Authority (ENSDA) Managing Director, Mr Ngala Oloitiptip said the authority will plant trees in Mau Forest to cover areas where people were evicted from last year.

ENSDA pledged to give 500,000 seedlings to the Kajiado North nursery.

Oloitiptip said ENSDA’s strategic programme includes bamboos commercialization, to make it a source of income for communities.

Bamboo plantations are also expected to protect the soil as well as increasing the vegetation cover in water catchment areas.

Last year ENSDA planted 484 acres under bamboo trees and they are intending to plant to plant another 200 acres.

They have planted two million trees in Narok County and now they plan is do the same in Kajiado county and across the region.

Kajiado North Constituency legislator Joseph Manje commended various groups for taking environmental matters seriously.

28 CLIMATE CHANGE

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Climate change curricula to be introduced in schools The Climate Change Act 2016 (Section 21) requires the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) on advice of the Council, to ntegrate climate change into various disciplines and subjects of the national education curricula at all levels.

By Our Reporter Climate change will soon be taught in the Kenyan curriculum at all levels of education and training if the guidelines are adopted.

The guidelines for mainstreaming climate change developed by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry in May, 2020 will set recommendations to assist curriculum developers to design teaching and learning experiences to integrate climate change and related emerging issues at all levels of education.

The curricula guide will enhance understanding of climate Loturerei Bridge in Turkana Central that was destroyed science, causes and impacts of by heavy floods paralyzing transport along the Lodwar climate change, and the appro- A1 highway. priate responses required to ad- which provides for KICD and During the development of dress its challenges while taking agencies responsible for devel- the National Climate Change Acadvantage of opportunities of cli- oping and regulating university tion Plan (NCCAP) 2013-2017, mate change by learners. and tertiary institutions’ curricula curricula content analysis and The development of these to integrate climate change into interviews were conducted to guidelines follows the enactment subjects of the national curricula establish the extent to which cliof the Climate Change Act 2016 at all levels. mate change has been integrated

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into Kenya’s education system.

Content analysis involved examination of the relevant education policy documents since independence.

The National Climate Change Response Strategy (NCCRS, 2010) noted that the major concern in Kenya was inadequate climate change information, knowledge and data to researchers, planners and policy makers.

Appropriate knowledge and skills to respond to climate change is still a challenge as it has not been mainstreamed in the education curriculum.

Climate change is one of the major challenges and its impacts are felt across the globe, affecting people, nature and economies.

The Climate Change Act 2016 (section 21) requires the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) on advice of the Council, to integrate climate change into various disciplines and subjects of the national education curricula at all levels.

The Act also requires the Council to advise the public agencies responsible for regulating universities and tertiary institutions on integration of climate change into their curricula.

The specific objectives of the guidelines are to provide curriculum developers with guidelines on designing curricula that enables learners to understand climate change and its impacts.

The other objectives include applying whole institution approach in teaching and learning, promoting implementation of global, regional and local climate change action plans and promoting research and innovation in climate change.

Kenya’s Champion For Water, Environment & Sanitation Issues

THE WATER WORLD SEPTEMBER 2020

Water industry bets big on digitization

By Sammy Munoko The use of digital or smart water monitoring systems in Kenya has not been fully tapped into although it has been in operation in selected areas within the country.

The smart water meter technology enables end users to determine water utility and the billing system among other online checks by click of a button on their computers or smart phones.

The Earthview water ICT solution firm Managing Director Charles Kaloki says that smart metering is the future of water management and application.

The Projects and operations officer Austine Oloo took The Water World crew through the software solutions implantation projects by the firm.

“Although the firm carries out many ICT solutions, our main area of concern is advanced water metering technologies and related consumer solutions,” he stated.

Two different types of water metering projects undertaken are wireless and wired metering systems and end users are guided appropriately on their advantages and disadvantages during meter installation and application.

The wireless metering system uses general packet radio service (GPRS) fitted with a subscriber identity module (SIM) card and operates on data bundles/internet connection to transmit the data generated to the main server in the control room.

The monitoring gadget system can effectively determine water usage from

boreholes and other water generating sources channelled to consumers’ homes or commercial enterprises. A few disadvantages in the case of apartments and rental units are that the smart meter comes with its own software that must be installed to realize the expected results.

For wired meter to be more effective in transmission of the data online, it needs a data logger to undertake transmission work to the server at the main offices.

The user will be able to view water volume utility, disparities due to non-revenue water. Initially, many Kenyans were used to the smaller water meters but currently the bulk meters which are not affected by turbidity among other water impurities are fast gaining traction.

The smart meters have now been integrated with Mpesa, and once bought, the meter will check to determine the volume of water transmitted and facilitate ease of payment without having to visit a banking hall to pay bills.

Landlords once they have fitted with the smart meters on the rental units, can be able to check the water utilization trends. Earthview has had a footprint in Kenya for over 10 years with different products and service solutions to water.

The firm is only based in Nairobi but is ensuring services are also devolved to remote counties. The ICT solution company has invested in small smart water meters for domestic use and bulk metering for commercial purpose organisations. The challenge of non-revenue water (NRW) can be partly be addressed by the smart metering system through tracking.

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THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

REGIONAL NEWS 29

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

WATER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Nakuru water firm turns human waste into fuel

By Felix Wanderi Rapid urbanization, improved economic situation and industrialization have transformed solid waste management into one of the greatest challenges facing major urban centres in Kenya.

Four years ago, Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company (NAWASSCO) saw the need to reuse and recycle human waste. The firm embarked on a project that turns waste into affordable and sustainable energy.

Human poop collected in septic tanks and pit latrines in Nakuru is now being turned into odourless charcoal

briquettes.

James Gachathi (pictured), the company managing director, said only

27 per cent of Nakuru residents are connected to the town’s sewerage system.

The company collects between 50 tonnes and 80 tonnes every day of waste from areas that are not connected to the system using exhauster trucks.

The programme has reached over 230,000 residents with over 5,000 toilets constructed or rehabilitated in Nakuru low income areas.

Gachathi said that the household fuel briquettes are in high demand because they are affordable.

The process of making the briquettes involves collecting human waste from pit latrines and septic

tanks around Nakuru. The waste is then taken to a processing plant, where it is dried for two to three weeks in greenhouse beds.

The hot temperatures in the greenhouse take out around 70 per cent of moisture from the sludge, preparing it for carbonation.

The dried waste is then heated in a kiln at temperatures of about 700 to 800 degrees Celsius, which burns off harmful gases.

It is then mixed with carbonized sawdust before molasses is added to bind the material, which is later divided into small balls.

The combined materials of milled sawdust and sludge are fed

into a rotating drum machine, while molasses is added gradually until the mixture forms a ball of about 2.5cm in diameter.

Before the briquettes find their way into households, they undergo processes to ensure they are free of harmful pathogens that could cause diseases, and are safe to use.

UN-Habitat Country Representative, Raphael Tust, said last year that innovative waste management through rethinking, refusing, reducing, reusing and recycling, cities can resolve the challenge, create employment, promote economic growth, improve health and ecosystems.

Ewasco embarks on expansion Eldowas second

By Kamundia Muriithi Embu Water And Sanitation Company (Ewasco) will expand its water treatment capacity to quench the thirst of the rapidly exploding population in its jurisdiction.

The water firm has an intake at River Rupingazi while the water is treated at the Mukangu Treatment Works before being channelled to the customers.

Currently, the treatment works is able to produce 28,000m3 per day of water that is still not enough for the increasing county population.

For the water to be clean as required when the customer receives it from the tap, the company skillfully does a lot using chemicals.

Ewasco Managing director Eng. Felix Gitonga (pictured) appreciates donations by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which provided chemicals to boost the company for at least a month. JICA is one of the major partners of the Embu based water service provider.

Gitonga says the company needs Sh271 million to expand the treatment works and satisfy the community in Embu.

The acting technical manager Eng Christopher

Kamuruana concurs that the company has to work on getting enough resources.

“We are calling for national and county governments, our partners including JICA to help raise the Sh271 million to enable expansion of the treatment works to enable the company supply enough water to the growing populations,” he says.

Expansion of water treatment capacity will come as a big relief to residents, especially those in the semi-arid Mbeere region, which suffers from water scarcity during dry spells.

Ewasco has been serving a population of more 200,000 people within its mandated area of 1,700 km2 whereas the company has

only covered about 75% of clients.

An effort to expand the coverage is underway despite the high population growth rate in the county, according to the management..

During a tour by the Board of Directors of the 1700km2 board chairman Joel Ngatiari said they aim to ensure all the customers get enough water all the time.

He said illegal connections of Ewasco water inconvenience people in Mbeere areas of Mutuabare, Newsite, Machang’a among other far flung areas.

Farmers upstream planting muguka (khat) are blamed for connecting water illegally while others vandalize the pipes to irrigate their farms, he said.

HIGHLIGHTS The company was losing 50 per cent of water for the Mbeere South Sub-County in 2018 through illegal connections and vandalism because of farmers irrigating miraa farms.

The company has commenced a rapid response initiative to reduce the non- revenue water to at least 30 percent to allow flow of sufficient water in the customers’ pipes.

Why Nyeri water company leads pack

By Our Reporter Nyeri Water and Sewage Company Limited (Nyewasco) target is to become a world class Water Service Provider (WSP) as it continues transforming livelihoods in the region.

Nyewasco which is ISO 9001:2015 certified, has for 12 years in a row emerged top in service delivery ranking by the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB).

The company again celebrated top position in this year’s annual impact report released on July 12th, beating 102 WSPs across the country.

Managing Director Peter Gichaaga attributed the success to better collaboration with customers, working closely with stakeholders, providing good leadership and interactive sessions with consumers.

“Being on top is not an

achievement but to maintain the same position for 12 years is through commitment and dedication and our worry is to maintain the trend,” said Gichaaga.

Among the challenges they want to overcome is the reduction of water lost either through burst pipes, vandals or illegal connections which they have been gradually minimizing.

“Customers are quick to report issues through various communication channels such as social media and a toll free emergency number which has helped us serve them effectively,” said Gichaaga.

The MD said support of the Board of Directors and noninterference in the running of the company and good governance, has created the success that has so far been realized.

“Before we turned the company around, customers suffered and learnt

Peter Gichaaga, Nyewasco MD. their lessons. The county government being the trustee of the customers also observes professionalism, adherence to the law and complements the company’s effort to be the best always,” said Gichaaga.

best in provision of quality water

By Dennis Bett Eldoret Water and Sanitation Company (ELDOWAS) is among the best providers of water services in the country.

The 12th Annual Impact Report by Water Service Regulatory Authority (WASREB) ranks ELDOWAS second nationally in provision of quality water services.

The new report was released by the state agency in July 2020 for the financial year 2018/2019 while analysing the performance of 87 water providers in all 47 counties.

The high rating is a pointer to the company’s commitment to achieve its vision of becoming a world class water service provider and the mission of providing quality and adequate water in a cost effective manner.

ELDOWAS operates two water bowsers to supply clean water to customers within Eldoret town and its environs.

According to the Company Managing Director, Paul Murgor, their aim is to provide reliable, efficient services by collecting, treating and disposing waste water and ensuring that all issues related to sewerage system are dealt with promptly.

Murgor noted that the high score for the firm was as a result of servant leadership and support from board members and staff.

Under his stewardship, ELDOWAS has adopted use of green energy by installing solar technology in their operations.

“The company has acquired a solar plant for Kesses water plant as alternative source of energy. There are plans to power the head office fully on solar as a way of cutting costs as well as going green to ensure we take care of the environment,” he noted.

The water firm recently commissioned Kapsoya-Ellegirini water treatment plant with upcoming water projects being Kipkaren dam, Kerita dam and Endaragwa water.

The company Chairman Andrew Saina exuded confidence that ELDOWAS will be the leading water provider in the next two years as plans are in place to ensure that they are self-sufficient for the task.

Meanwhile, Uasin Gishu County Department of water in partnership with ELDOWAS recently signed a contract for Ziwa machine water project.

County Executive Committee Member for Water and Sanitation Mary Njogu pledged full department’s support to the contractor and urged them to deliver quality work.

Paul Murgor, Eldowas Managing Director.

30 REGIONAL NEWS ––

Badi warns water cartels Nairobi Metropolitan Services Director General Mohammed Badi has cautioned anyone engaged in diversion of water supply lines for personal gain of dire consequences.

He told the National Assembly Security Committee that the cartels were denying residents water while minting billions of shillings through exorbitant price charges.

“Water is deliberately being diverted to private houses where it is loaded into bowsers and sold to Nairobi residents,” said Badi.

He said the diverted water lines will soon be restored especially in the informal settlements. In October last year, the County government earned Sh13 million in penalties from illegal water connections.

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

Uhuru launches campaign to restore city green spaces

-By Correspondent

Child mortality in Kitui linked to unsafe water Researcher Francis Wadegu says unsafe water, inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene is a major cause of child mortality in Kitui.

The researcher from the Unicode Research and Consulting Firm carried out a detailed analysis of water sources, production and demands, taking into consideration population projections, industrial development and urban or towns growth.

Kitui County has constructed some 300 dams while more than 100 are repaired by the county government every year.

-Boniface Mulu

Poor sanitation drives up health care costs: NGO

The Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi.

By Staff Reporter

T

he Ministry of Environment and Forestry has embarked on revamping and expanding green spaces within urban centers.

The green spaces are meant to sequestrate carbon and provide relaxing recreational centres for residents and visitors.

City parks in Kenya have lost their magnificence over the years and it is for this reason that the government is working towards restoring them.

While officially opening the Michuki Memorial Park recently, President Uhuru Kenyatta emphasized the need for continuous facelift of the green spaces as a way of rehabilitating the parks.

“Today we are gathered here to demonstrate to the naysayers that we can restore the former glory of our great city of Nairobi to what was referred to as the green city in the sun,” he said.

Apart from Michuki Park, he said they have targeted the Nairobi Arboretum and Ngong Road forest.

Green renaissance “We hope to extend this rebirth of our

Dr. Lynette Olima opens a tap after donating a water tank at Kipasi secondary school in Bondo sub-county.

The Siaya county government should prioritise provision of clean water to save residents from incurring heavy expenses in treating waterborne diseases.

Geno Community Development Initiative board chair Dr. Lynette Olima said provision of clean water will reduce the number of people seeking treatment in hospitals.

“About 25 per cent of the Sh6 billion budget in Siaya County is spent on health but a good chunk of the money could be saved for development if the government invested in providing clean water,” Olima said.

She was speaking at Kipasi Secondary School in Bondo after donating a 16,000-litre water tank to the local community.

- Erick Nyayiera

The John Muchuki Park, formally Mazingira Park, covers an estimated area of 12.30 hectares and is named after the former Environment and Natural Resources Minister John Michuki. environment or what I call ‘green renaissance’ to all counties of the republic,” he said.

The President stated that green spaces improve the quality of air in the city and expunges the toxins emitted by the environment.

He said the park had been transformed from a safe haven for criminals to a place of serene beauty and peace.

Besides the John Michuki Memorial Park, other notable green spaces in Nairobi include City Park, Uhuru Park, Uhuru Gardens, Jeevanjee Gardens, Nairobi National Park, Karura Forest Reserve, Nairobi Arboretum, Ngong Forest Sanctuary, Ololua Forest, Nairobi Botanical Gardens at Museum grounds, Giraffe Centre near Karen, August 7th Me-

morial Park and Langata Botanical Garden.

Nairobi was in the past known as the ‘green city in the sun’ due to its green surroundings in the central business district and surrounding national parks, forests, rivers and vast green vegetation.

Maintenance of the green spaces has been a challenge but the Ministry of Environment and Forestry has taken up restoration of the recreational centers and, to some extent, drove out alleged encroachers and land grabbers.

In 1989, the government tried to build a 60-storey complex at Uhuru Park but late Nobel Laurate Wangari Maathai, through her Green Belt Movement organisation, protested against the project which was eventually stopped.

Uhuru also launched a national clean up exercise beginning with areas neighbouring Michuki Park.

In May, Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko indicated that there was need to develop a working policy on management of green spaces in Kenya.

“There is need to raise awareness in regard to importance of green spaces in Kenya to ensure they are not grabbed and give prominence to them,” said the CS.

Tana flood victims raid forests for survival

By Amoto Dennis

When it burst its banks every year, River Tana leaves behind a sad trail of devastation to the residents of Tana River County.

The raging waters sweep away homes, crops, livestock and roads, leaving thousands homeless, hungry and stranded.

The deluge also contributes to poor sanitation, which exposes residents to waterborne diseases.

Apart from the destruction of crops such as maize and bananas, the ones that survive do not yield much.

Dr Mohamud Hashi, an environmentalist in Garissa, says crops are stunted and residents get poor yields.

“Sadly they may or may not real-

ize meaningful subsistence gardening along the mighty River Tana,’’ he noted.

To ride through the high cost of living, residents have turned to the fragile forest cover in the area to earn a living.

“Residents are engaging in deforestation for timber and fuel wood despite the logging ban,’’ said Hashi.

Kantona Katelo, a resident of Mororo, said they have no choice but turn to the forests because people have to eat.

Katelo said it is ironical that the devastating floods in the Tana basin aren’t from local rain but from heavy rains in the Mt Kenya region, water from seasonal rivers and dams releasing excess water.

Japhet Mambo of Perani Secondary School speaks to the media at Vanga in the South Coast where floods paralyzed learning last year. Photo /Andrew Kasuku

THE WATER WORLD, OCTOBER 2020

Kenya’s Champion For Water & Environmental Issues

SPECIAL FEATURES 31

Rare Taita forest species facing extinction

Kevin Mwachola in the forest with butterfly catching nets.

By Pascal Mwandambo

S

ome rare animal and plant species found in Taita forests and virtually nowhere else in the world are facing an imminent threat of extinction.

The danger is real and according to researchers, it’s either total extinction of these invaluable species or concerted efforts by conservation stakeholders to reverse the worrying trend.

One reasons given for the loss of the rare biodiversity is ignorance of the local communities who cannot distinguish between a rare bird or butterfly and an ordinary one.

As local communities exert more pressure on the land due to the growing population, encroachment on forests has been on the increase with a corresponding loss in forest biodiversity including plants, butterflies and birds whose habitat is destroyed irreversibly by bush clear-

ing and burning.

Chief among the threatened species in Taita forests is the Taita Apalis that is found only in Ngangao forest.

This strange endemic bird has continued to attract attention of scientists all over the world, with research perplexed its survival so far when its close relatives became extinct thousands of years ago.

On the one hand the Apalis has provided a vital ink on ornithological research and more so the basis of evolution of species.

The Apalis, known from its characteristic monotonous ding sound, now survives on a

‘

Apart from the three endemic bird species, Ngangao holds two butterfly species Taita Swallowtail and Taita Glider.

forest fragment of natural vegetation at altitudes on between 1500m and 2200m.

In 2001 the whole population of the bird species was estimated at only 300-650 individuals concentrated in 120 hectreas of Ngangao forest, thereby qualifying it for the lowest survival category or critically endangered.

Field work carried out in 2009 and 2010 with support from Birdlife International, Chester Zoo and other donors strongly suggest that a major population crash is on the way.

A report by the Deputy Director of Forestry James Mwangombe titled Major Population crash of critically endangered Taita Apalis, on sightings of the rare bird recorded between September to December 2009 and May-July 2010 indicated a population crash of more than 80 per cent.

“This means that the global population of the Apalis might now be reduced to only 60130 individuals,” the report says.

However, the reasons for this extremely worrying drop remain unclear given that little or no illegal logging is occurring in Ngangao forest and general human disturbances to the ecosystem have been significantly reduced through the efforts of local conservation groups and the Kenya Forest Service.

Factors such as nest predation and climate change could however be at play in driving these rare birds into near extinction, though the argument remains largely undocumented.

Nonetheless it is clear that all possible factors driving this apparent population crash of the Apalis need to be urgently studied in order to stop the bird species from sliding further towards the precipice of extinction.

Similarly, research is also urgently needed on the second critically endangered bird of Taita hills forest the Taita Thrush whose population has not been assessed in recent times but is reported to be threatened by the same factors that are affecting its cousin the Apalis .

Good news is that the Taita Apalis and Taita Thrush are receiving funding from the Birdlife Preventing Extinction Programme which is spearheading greater conservation action and awareness.

They are also funding support for all of the worlds most threatened birds, focusing on190 species identified and classified world-wide as critically endangered.

Another rare bird of Taita forests the Taita montane white –eye remains largely undocumented.

Communities living around Ngangao forest need to be sensitized on the biodiversity value of the forest so that they can play a greater role in its conservation.

Once the local communities are enlightened on the value of these rare plants and animals and derive direct benefits from them, they may feel obliged to conserve them as invaluable resources.

Butterflies are also key in the forest and Clayvon Mwachola, a youth in Wundanyi town has embarked on a butterfly farming project at Shigharo forest where he exports the pupae through the Kipepeo project in Malindi.

“When I began capturing and raring these rare butterflies people thought it was weird and dismissed me but after I began making money from the export of pupae, some youths began to see sense in my venture and have now joined me in my project,” says Mwachola.

There are reports that biodiversity resources worth billions of shillings are being craftily spirited out of the country.

For instance the African Violet endemic to Ngangao forest has been patented in Europe where fetches millions of shillings as an ornamental plant.

Part of these huge sums of money should be going into the local county coffers to boost development and further research instead of benefiting other countries while the source communities live in poverty and ignorance.

The Coast region is perhaps the most endowed in terms of rare species especially the Arabuko Sokoke forest in Kilifi county and the Taita-Taveta natural forests.

The KFS officer Mwang’ombe has also been undertaking research on another rare creature resembling an earthworm that was discovered in Sagalla forest in 2005.

Called the Sagalla Ceacilian this critically endangered creature is limbless and tailless, has blood and bones, invisible eyes and is about 30 cm long.

The Sagalla forest is also home to the rare hardwood Mwingo, which has also been seriously exploited, despite its immense biodiversity potential.

It is also home to the back- fanged snake (locally known as Sadu) the wild banana(locally known as isengerughu), the wild coffee (coffea fadenii) and the African Violet tree that is known worldwide for its beautiful flowers especially in Europe.

Taita forests hold three rare butterflies, three critically endangered bird species, a reptile and a nematode. The wild banana, isengerughu, a rare plant which is the ancestor of the modern banana is found in Ngangao forest in Taita.

How to file an appeal at the Water Tribunal

By Sammy Munoko Kenyans aggrieved by water related disputes can access justice through formal complaints handling mechanisms.

Their concerns will be handled by the Water Tribunal which according to the Water Act of 2016 appropriately guides on the steps and procedure to be applied by water consumers seeking redress.

“Person aggrieved by any determination, decision or order of the Cabinet Secretary, the Authority and Regulatory Board or officers as specified in section 121 (1) of the Act may appeal to the Water Tribunal in accordance with the rules,” states the Water Act 2016.

The Kenya Legal Reform Com-

mission (KLRC) says tribunals play a critical part in adjudication and resolution of disputes.

They enjoy great advantages over regular courts of law which make them an important vehicle for delivering administrative justice.

KLRC adds that more importantly, due to tribunal’s informality, simpler procedures and cheapness, they are better placed than regular courts to ensure that the majority of citizens access justice.

An appeal to the tribunal is commenced by filing a written notice and if approved, a form of notice will be served.

The appellant files an original application with not less than four copies or more if the number of applicants exceeds two to ensure that each party to the appeal is served.

An appeal shall comprise the notice, which shall state the name and address of the appellant(s) or his Advocate and any respondents who are named in the notice.

Upon receipt of the appeal, the tribunal shall register an appeal by entering particulars and assigning an appeal number.

Parties to the appeal shall deliver to the tribunal copies of every document upon which they intend to base their argument on or reply within a period directed.

An appeal can encounter preliminary objections, amendments and the appellant may also withdraw an appeal at any time before the appeal is served on parties named in the notice of appeal.

Upon receipt of a counterpart of the appeal the respondent shall deliv-

er to the Tribunal, within fifteen (15) days, a written reply depending on the allegations levelled against him/ her and is free to amend where possible before hearing.

Third parties are also enjoined in the appeal case where applicable.

The tribunal may at any time, on the application of a party or of its own motion, give such directions including additional information/documents as are necessary to enable parties prepare for the hearing or to assist the tribunal to determine the issues in dispute.

If any party objects to the directions sought, the tribunal shall consider and give the parties an opportunity to address it orally on the application.

Failure to comply with directions may prompt the tribunal to dismiss

the whole or part or the appeal.

The tribunal shall fix the date, time and place of the oral hearing, and send the information to each party by giving a hearing notice.

Oral hearings shall be conducted in public but the tribunal may for good cause direct that an oral hearing or some aspect of it shall be held in camera.

Failure of parties to attend hearing may be granted by the tribunal if a written notice is issued and hence result in adjournment of the hearing.

The quorum at the oral hearing of an appeal shall be the Chairman or any other person acting as Chairman and two other members.

A decision of the tribunal may be taken by a majority and recorded whether it was unanimous or taken by majority.

The highly misunderstood hyena Page 16 Becoming an irrigation technician Page 15

The

NEMA block farms in Amboseli Page 24 National Park

WaterWorld KENYA’S CHAMPION FOR WATER & ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

For more information, visit our website: www.waterworld.co.ke OCTOBER 2020, THE WATER WORLD

Time to tap into fresh water lakes to address Kenya’s food security

By Ngugi Njoroge

L

ake Victoria receives bulk of its waters from rivers, Sio, Nzoia, Yala, Nyando, Sondu Miriu, Mogusi, and Migori on the Kenyan side.

The country can however not directly exploit the lake’s waters for consumption, power generation or irrigation, thanks to the Nile Treaty.

River Mara, which emanates from Mau Forest, also enters the lake from the Tanzanian side.

That means that the country is the lake’s main contributor.

However, the Nile Treaty gives Egypt complete control over the Nile during the dry season when water is most needed for agricultural irrigation.

It also severely limits the amount of water allotted to Sudan and provides no water to any of the other riparian states.

Until recently, when Ethiopia defied the treaty to construct the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Blue Nile, only Egypt and Sudan had the right to use the waters of the Nile River including the construction of power and irrigation schemes to the exclusion of upstream countries such as Kenya.

Ethiopia, with a population of more than 100 million people, accuses Egypt of trying to maintain a colonialera grip over the Nile’s waters.

Addis Ababa says Cairo is trying to hold the project hostage by imposing rules over the filling and operation of the dam.

The $4 billion (Sh433 billion) Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was announced in early 2011.

Egypt was at the time in political upheaval following a popular uprising that toppled President Hosni Mubarak.

The dam is the centerpiece of Ethiopia’s bid to become Africa’s biggest power exporter, with a projected capacity of more than 6,000 megawatts.

Ethiopia has already started filling the reservoir behind the dam early this despite protests from Ethiopia and warnings from US President Donald Trump..

The first stage of the filling pro-

cess is expected to take two years and bring the water level in the reservoir to 595 meters out of an eventual 632 meters.

The Nile Basin river system flows through 11 countries. The Blue Nile and White Nile merge in Sudan before flowing into Egypt and towards the Mediterranean.

Egypt currently bases its share of the river’s waters on the 1959 treaty that gave it 55.5 billion cubic meters water annually, and Sudan 18.5 bcm.

Other countries were not given allocations but Ethiopia was not party to the agreement at that time because it was not under colonial rule and does not recognize it.

Unlike Uganda and South Sudan which are either exploiting the Nile waters or are planning to, Kenya has historically not shown interest in harnessing their great potential.

In addition to the irrigation schemes, which were for long in a sorry state, the only other project Kenya has launched is the Sondu Miriu Hydro- Power project.

Yet according to experts, Kenya can make use of its waters before they reach Lake Victoria, one of the Nile River’s sources, for irrigation, consumption and hydro-power generation and hence circumvent the Nile Treaty.

Currently, the government has embarked on a campaign to reclaim the Mau Forest, which is the source of the rivers that fill up Lake Victoria apart from Cherangany, but ironically it gets little economic dividends save for ensuring predictable weather in the country.

Similarly, the waters of most of the other freshwater lakes largely go to waste since there has been little investment in harnessing them.

For instance, despite Baringo County being home to Lake Baringo which is currently submerging farms and homes, the county suffers from perennial drought and hunger.

Only about 50,000 hectares of land have been put under irrigation in the county.

Currently, rising waters in the area have displaced thousands of people and destroyed property of unknown value.

Lake Naivasha waters have offer the years been used to irrigate flower

Fishermen in canoes at Homa Bay beach in Lake Victoria. Fresh water lakes could become handy in addressing country’s food security.

The Nile Treaty gives Egypt complete control over the Nile waters during the dry season when water is most needed for agricultural irrigation.

It also severely limits the amount of water allotted to Sudan and provides no water to any of the other riparian states. farms around the area accounting from 43percent of the produce in the country.

Lack of regulation had negatively impacted on the lake by reducing its volume in the past although the lake is also going the unexplained increased water levels this year.

The size of arable land in Kenya stands at 10.2 percent, covered in 29 counties and is home to about 16 mil-

lion people, according to 2016 statistics.

With an average annual growth rate of 1.15 percent since 1967, it means up to 89 percent of Kenya’s land is either arid or semi-arid today.

All that land can be rehabilitated and used for food production if the water is diverted for irrigation, domestic and industrial use.

Efforts to make those regions economically productive have been made in recent years as one way of ending marginalisation and uplifting the population from abject poverty.

Deputy President William Ruto, is confident that the advent of devolution has changed the narrative among Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) communities from marginalization to opportunity and potential.

“Arid and Semi-Arid areas have great economic potential and if unlocked, can change millions of lives, lift up communities and secure prosperity for many generations,” he said at an ASAL conference recently.

However, even as the government

focuses on uplifting the ASAL regions, there is a need for a discussion on how to utilise the freshwater lakes that dot the country to address both water and food insecurities.

Kenya is blessed with freshwater lakes, including Lake Victoria, the largest inland freshwater body on earth.

Others are lakes Turkana, Baringo, Naivasha, Kanyaboli in Siaya, Jipe on the Kenya-Tanzania border and Kenyatta in Lamu.

Apart from being a leading source of fish, Lake Victoria’s waters have a huge potential of helping the country meet her challenges of providing adequate clean water as well as irrigation.

Irrigation schemes in the area, both public and private, are West Kano, Ahero and Bunyala.

Dominion Farms Ltd’s bid to develop the Yala Swamp area was marred by communal resistance forcing American investor Calvin Birges, to hand over his lease to Lake Agro Ltd early this year.

KFS to recruit 3,000 staff Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Board Chairman Peter Kinyua has confirmed the planned hiring of 3,000 employees to replace those who exit through natural attrition.

He said KFS currently has only 4,000 employees as opposed to 11,000 required to effectively man forest resources. The new employees will replace the aging staff

members.

Plans are also underway to legalize 255 community forest associations (CFA) so that members can benefit from the forests and in turn

seek funding for development purposes.

The chairman reiterated that the moratorium imposed on logging will see increased forest cover and will

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require greater management expertise.

Kinyua made the remarks while at Mukogodo Forest in Laikipia County while presiding over the CFA elections.