Strengthening Women’s Participation in Climate Change Impact Mitigation
This women-led project sensitizes the local population to the conservation needs of neighboring
forests. “Strengthening Women’s Participation in Climate Change Impact
Mitigation” focuses on environmental education to promote the conservation of Kanya’s
Mau Forest, which acts as an important watershed both nationally and internationally. Community
sensitization will form the basis of planned reforestation and resource conservation efforts.
- 5 kilometers reforested along Molo River
- 40,000 pupils targeted for environmental education
- 1 million native trees anticipated to be planted
The Mau Forest in Kenya forms the source of Lake Victoria and River Nile – two water bodies that
harbor innumerable species, as well as providing water for irrigation and domestic use. Human encroachment
on the forest has led to forest fire disasters, with impacts on agricultural production and even climate.
Meanwhile, growing population has been increasing food scarcity. A serious lack of awareness in local
communities regarding sustainability and resource conservation compounds these problems.
This project has mobilized locals to educate the greater population of Molo Town on sustainability and
resource conservation. Voluntary counselors have performed reforestation along 5 kilometers of the Molo
River. Participants have written environmental messages on river rocks, and helped educate 2,000 primary
and secondary school pupils. Furthermore they have established environmental clubs focused on mitigating
river pollution through water resource management.
Project participants have attended meetings with government officials to ensure that water and forests are
protected against encroachment, and informed the community about the need to join forces in fighting fires
and reporting forest encroachment.
Helping the planet
The intended tree-planting will sequester atmospheric carbon and help restore forests. Restoring forests
helps preserve biodiversity, and increases the capacity of the land to hold water. Healthy watersheds
assure flowing rivers and full lakes, which are critical for maintaining ecological balance; better water
management efforts likewise conserve water resources. Efforts to fight catastrophic forest fires prevent
further environmental destruction.
Communities also benefit from better resource management, which helps reduce agricultural scarcity. A
healthier ecosystem with rare and unique species attracts tourists, which brings revenue into the
community. The female-led project also helps women become environmental leaders.
The project intends to expand greatly, including plans to plant 1 million native trees in the Mau water
towers, and impart environmental awareness to 40,000 pupils. Project coordinators ultimately hope to
introduce renewable energy technologies and bio-credits to the community, as well. These efforts could be
extended across Kenya and other East African communities.
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