Calls to plant riparian lands to save riparian lands

By ERIC ABUGA

Kisii, Kenya: Kisii County Government has embarked on a programme to conserve riparian areas by replacing eucalyptus trees with bamboo.

Concerns have been raised on the sustainability of eucalyptus trees planted by most residents.

Despite the concerns, farmers prefer planting eucalyptus trees which grow faster.

But there are reports of water springs drying up and reduced water volumes in rivers due to eucalyptus trees which account to 90 per cent of trees in the county.

Skitter Oncharo, the executive member for Environment, Water and Mineral Resources, said the programme aims at ensuring that residents plant bamboo along rivers and other riparian areas for enhanced water conservation. “Apart from enhanced conservation of riparian areas, bamboo growing will generate income and improve livelihoods,” said Ms Oncharo.