Kenyan City News

NCCK Launches Tree Seeds Distribution in Athi Ward, Kitui County

Updated 8 months ago
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Members of Athi Vision Group carrying the seeds they received from NCCK
Members of Athi Vision Group carrying the seeds they received from NCCK

The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has kicked off the distribution of tree seeds for nurseries in Athi Ward, Kitui County, as part of its ongoing Nature Positive project.

The effort, which aims to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainable livelihoods, targets five schools, five churches, and ten community groups capable of managing nurseries and having access to water.

Each targeted institution will receive 3 kilograms of tree seeds, which is equivalent to around 4,600 seeds.

The two types of seeds being distributed are Croton megalocarpus, commonly known as “Muthulu,” and Senna Siamea, also referred to as “Mukengeka.” These tree species were chosen for their adaptability and capacity to grow and survive in the region’s extreme drought.

The initiative is not just about environmental rehabilitation but also about creating economic opportunities for the community. Once the trees reach maturity, a portion of them will be sold, potentially providing a significant source of income for the beneficiaries.

The others will be planted as part of a larger effort to improve the landscape, which has been significantly damaged by unsustainable activities like charcoal burning, contributing to severe drought.

“We are very excited to have received tree seeds from NCCK.

We will create nurseries, plant the trees, and sell others to enhance our economy,” said Elizabeth Njoroge, Athi Vision Group chair.

Japheth, a teacher at Kalivu Comprehensive School, also expressed his excitement.

“We have been waiting for these seeds, and we are thrilled that they are finally in our hands. Our school has a vast compound, and we aim to plant as many trees as we can.

We ask NCCK to give additional seeds if available,” said Japheth.

NCCK seeks to lessen the effects of deforestation, encourage conservation, and generate revenue for Athi Ward Residents by assisting well-established tree nurseries through training and distribution of tree seeds.

The Nature Positive Project is funded by the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (CFGB) through the United Church of Canada (UCC).

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