In a significant step towards environmental conservation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage has officially handed over the conserved forested area at the source of River Njoro, located in Entiyani, Narok North Constituency. The ceremony, marked by the presence of esteemed officials, underscores the collective commitment to preserving natural resources for future generations.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, alongside a representative of Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Hon. Soipan Tuya, presided over a university event where partners presented symbolic cheques. Among the contributors were @KCB Bank (Ksh. 2 million), Co-operative Bank (Ksh. 100,000), Defence University of Kenya (Ksh. 100,000), Egerton University Alumni Association (Ksh. 100,000), and various in-kind donations.
Chief Officer of Environment for Narok County government, representing Governor His Excellency Patrick Ntutu, received the site from Prof. Kibwage, symbolizing a crucial partnership between academia and local governance in safeguarding vital ecosystems.
Hon. Soipan Tuya, the representative of the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the paramount importance of protecting water sources. "We are urging you to take care of the source of the river. Where will your cows take water if this source dries up?" Prof. Kibwage queried, echoing the urgent need for environmental stewardship.
Following the handover of the River Njoro site, the University management extended its conservation efforts by handing over another conserved area at Ng’ondu. The County Committee Executive Member for Environment and Water, Hon. Nelson Mara, representing Governor Susan Kihika, received this additional site, further solidifying the collaborative efforts between the University and the County government in environmental restoration.
Expressing satisfaction at the fruition of conservation endeavors, Ms. Lotam, representing CS Soipan Tuya, stressed the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to continue conserving the larger Mau ecosystem, highlighting the interconnectedness of conservation efforts.
In response, CECM Nelson Maara thanked the University management for its proactive collaboration, affirming the County government's commitment to environmental restoration and sustainability.
The handover ceremony signifies a milestone in the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve critical natural resources, serving as a testament to the power of partnership and collective action in ensuring a sustainable future for all.
By Kurian Musa
Communications Officer
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization
Email:
Egerton University
