Tharaka Nithi County and ACEECA Forge Partnership to Combat Climate Change and Restore Natural Resources

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Tharaka Nithi County and ACEECA Forge Partnership to Combat Climate Change and Restore Natural Resources
Tharaka Nithi County officials and ACEECA representatives pose for a group photo after a productive discussion on environmental restoration and climate action. The meeting, held on February 5, 2025, marked the beginning of a collaborative effort to combat deforestation, rehabilitate rivers, and promote sustainable natural resource management in the region.

Tharaka Nithi, Kenya – February 5, 2025 – In a meeting held on February 5, 2025, the County Government of Tharaka Nithi, Department of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, Veterinary Services, Environment, and Natural Resources and the Africa Centre for Environment, Energy and Climate Advocacy (ACEECA) explored groundbreaking collaborations to address pressing environmental challenges. The meeting, attended by key county officials and ACEECA representatives, focused on sustainable natural resource management, afforestation, and river line rehabilitation, marking a significant step toward combating climate change in the region.

The meeting highlighted the alarming decline of natural resources in Tharaka Nithi County, particularly the degradation of Mt. Kenya forest and other forest reserves. With tree cover dropping from 19.4% in 2019 to 18% in 2024, the county faces severe challenges, including declining water levels, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation. Illegal logging, charcoal burning, and unsustainable agricultural practices have exacerbated the situation, leaving rivers like Gitura and Muthangacwi seasonal instead of permanent.

ACEECA CEO addresses Tharaka Nithi County officials during the meeting on February 5, 2025. She emphasized the urgency of environmental restoration. The CEO, also outlined collaborative strategies to combat deforestation, rehabilitate ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices for a resilient future.
ACEECA CEO addresses Tharaka Nithi County officials during the meeting on February 5, 2025, emphasizing the urgency of environmental restoration. The CEO, also outlined collaborative strategies to combat deforestation, rehabilitate ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices for a resilient future.

Ms. Sharon Cherono, ACEECA, emphasized the urgency of the situation: “The degradation of our natural resources is not just an environmental issue; it’s a threat to livelihoods, food security, and the future of our communities. Collaborative efforts are essential to reverse this trend.”

The discussions identified key areas of partnership, including afforestation, capacity building, and the rehabilitation of critical ecosystems. ACEECA and the county government plan to work closely with Community Forest Associations (CFAs), schools, women’s groups, and youth organizations to implement sustainable practices.

Tharaka Nithi County officials engage in a focused discussion during their meeting with ACEECA on February 5, 2025. The dialogue centered on collaborative efforts to address environmental challenges, including afforestation, riverline rehabilitation, and sustainable natural resource management.

One of the flagship initiatives is the rehabilitation of Tunyai, Mariene, and Kijege Hills, which have been severely affected by deforestation and overgrazing. The introduction of bamboo, acacia, and arborea melina trees aims to restore these vital ecosystems while providing economic opportunities for local communities.

The partnership also focuses on empowering local communities through capacity building and inclusive participation. Plans are underway to establish nurseries at the farm level, promote energy-saving jikos, and involve schools in planting fruit trees. Women-led households, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and youth groups will play a central role in these initiatives, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against climate change.

Denis Nabiswa from the Climate Change Unit stressed the importance of community involvement: “Sustainable change starts at the grassroots. By empowering our communities, we can create a ripple effect that benefits the entire county.”

The meeting concluded with a commitment to fast-track the partnership. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is set to be finalized by February 10, 2025, with the first draft of the proposal expected by February 14, 2025.

As Tharaka Nithi County takes decisive action to restore its environment, this partnership with ACEECA shines as a ray of hope. By tackling the root causes of environmental decline and promoting sustainable practices, the county is laying the foundation for a greener, healthier, and more resilient future for its communities.