Kajiado: Group takes up tree planting, involves community in bid to counter effects of climate change

Established three years ago, Greening Oloitokitok's primary focus is on conservation initiatives, specifically in watershed areas and safeguarding critical ecosystems.

In its years of existence, the group has planted 70,000 trees and put up two nurseries with 30,000 seedlings.

The efforts have seen an impact made on marginalized communities.

Their efforts saw the group recognized by the National Environmental Complaints Committee (NECC) in 2022, which listed it as one of the most active CBOs in environmental justice.

“Three years ago, we started this organization to conserve our environment in Oloitoktok. We were provoked by the environment degradation that was going on in Oloitoktok. I was brought up in this place, the environment was good, farming was doing super well. The food shortage in Oloitoktok is alarming. We can no longer plant or harvest,” James Ngugi, the chairperson of Greening Oloitoktok, said.

By actively involving the local community, schools, children, youth groups, and faith-based institutions, the organization has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility towards the environment. 

Compiled by Janet Akinyi