ACEECA Engages Taita Taveta County to Promote Environmental and Climate Initiatives

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ACEECA Engages Taita Taveta County to Promote Environmental and Climate Initiatives
ACEECA team and Taita Taveta County officials pose for a group photo following a courtesy call on April 30, 2025, to discuss potential collaborations in climate action and sustainable development

April 30, 2025, Taita Taveta County — The African Centre for Environment, Energy, and Climate Advocacy (ACEECA) took a significant step towards fostering sustainable development in Taita Taveta County through a courtesy call to the County Government on Wednesday, April 30th. The visit aimed to introduce ACEECA to the county government and explore synergies and collaborative opportunities to address pressing environmental and climate challenges facing the region.

Led by ACEECA Chief Executive Officer, Pamela Gakii, ACEECA Communications Officer, Collins Oteko and Project Lead, Sharon Cherono, the delegation engaged with County Governor H.E. Dr. Andrew Mwadime, along with key county officials including the Chief Officer for Environment and Natural Resource Management, Elizabeth Mbinga, and other stakeholders.

During the meeting, several strategic areas for collaboration were identified, emphasizing the county’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment. Notable initiatives discussed included school greening programs, promotion of circular economy models, river and landscape rehabilitation, water resource management, and youth and women empowerment.

H.E. Dr. Andrew Mwadime, Governor of Taita Taveta County (left), engages with ACEECA CEO Pamela Gakii during a meeting held on April 30, 2025, at the Governor's Boardroom in Mwatate.
H.E. Dr. Andrew Mwadime, Governor of Taita Taveta County (left), engages with ACEECA CEO Pamela Gakii during a meeting held on April 30, 2025, at the Governor’s Boardroom in Mwatate.

One of the highlighted proposals was to implement school greening projects by planting fruit trees such as avocados, mangoes, and macadamia nuts on unused land within schools. This initiative aims to promote environmental education and agroforestry, especially involving youth groups like the 4K Clubs.

ACEECA also expressed interest in promoting alternatives to charcoal and supporting the existing Charcoal Association to reduce reliance on indigenous trees, thus conserving forest resources. The rehabilitation of critical river systems, particularly the Mwamsha Water Source, was emphasized, given its importance in supplying water to over 50,000 residents and institutions like Taita Taveta University.

Water scarcity remains a significant concern, especially in areas like Rong’e Ward, where sand harvesting has led to river degradation. ACEECA was encouraged to commence work in this region, with proposed interventions including dam rehabilitation and the strategic placement of beehives along buffer zones to naturally deter wild animals and provide honey-based income opportunities.

The county also highlighted the high unemployment rates among youth and women, urging ACEECA to develop programs that foster green entrepreneurship, skills development, and sustainable livelihoods. Additionally, there was a focus on boosting the banana value chain, which is vital to the county’s economy, through capacity building, processing, and market linkages.

ACEECA delegation and Taita Taveta County officials follow proceedings during a meeting with H.E. the Governor on April 30, 2025, at the Governor's Boardroom in Mwatate.
ACEECA delegation and Taita Taveta County officials follow proceedings during a meeting with H.E. the Governor on April 30, 2025, at the Governor’s Boardroom in Mwatate.

In a move to expand its reach, ACEECA was invited to include Chapia Ward in its scope of work, recognizing the environmental concerns and community-driven restoration opportunities in the area.

Next steps include the drafting of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Elizabeth Mbinga, expected to be shared with ACEECA for review by May 1st, 2025. The organization will also prioritize initial interventions in Rong’e Ward, conducting baseline assessments to inform implementation strategies.

The visit signifies a promising partnership focused on sustainable development, climate resilience, and community empowerment. County officials expressed optimism about working together with ACEECA to realize transformative environmental actions that benefit local communities, especially youth and women, aligning with the broader county development agenda.

This collaboration marks a hopeful stride towards a greener, more resilient Taita Taveta County.