Eucalyptus threaten water sources in Kisii

By Kenan Miruka

Kisii County

Unplanned planting of the eucalyptus tree in the Kisii highlands threatens livelihoods of millions of water users in Nyanza Province.

The Ministry of Environment says the region, which is endowed with important rivers and catchment areas risks drying up due to the effects of planting the eucalyptus in riparian areas.

In a speech read on his behalf at Nyanturago by Kisii Central DO1 Philip Soi during celebrations to mark World Environment Day, Environment and Mineral Resources minister John Michuki advised residents against planting the tree near water-sources to safeguard against water loss.

The event was low-key as evidenced by number of senior civil servants who skipped it.

"There is overwhelming evidence that these trees lose large quantities of water to the atmosphere due to high evapo-transpiration thus drying up water sources. Kisii is among regions that have lost many rivers, streams and springs over the years due to presence of eucalyptus trees," said Mr Michuki.

Encroachment

He noted that many permanent rivers had reduced water volumes while others had become seasonal over time.

"Kisii region is endowed with important catchments and rivers like Gucha, Mogonga, Nyanturago and Riana which are part of the Lake Victoria Basin downstream.

"The catchment is an important water source for millions in the province supporting economic development including fishing and agriculture," said the minister.

He noted that the Ministry had embarked on a rehabilitation program in Kisii through removal of eucalyptus from riparian areas.

Kisii Central District Environment Officer Samson Bokea said protecting the environment was every individual’s responsibility.

"We have a duty to create a clean and safe environment," said Bokea, adding that the Government is not condemning the blue gum tree but urging residents to plant them away from water sources.

Nema’s Director for Research and Planning Kennedy Ondimu said each of the eight provinces had a rehabilitation site and encouraged locals to plant indigenous tree specie