Approximately 80 farmers from Saba Saba, Muran’ga County benefitted from a sensitization forum on the environmental and socio-economic benefits of planting bamboo trees along riparian land on the 2nd and 4th of March.
The sessions conducted by the KenGen Foundation introduced the farmers to the trees’ impacts in controlling rampant soil erosion while simultaneously curbing carbon emissions. The proposed project, to be implemented by the Foundation and KenGen PLC, will rely on a partnership model with the farmers for multiple economic benefits to the community.
The interactive forum had brief engagement moments between the Foundation team and the farmers who gave their assurances in participating in the project through self-mobilization; having being informed of the benefits bamboo has to offer.
Bamboo is one of the world’s fastest-growing plants. It’s been measured to grow up to 48 inches within 24 hours. It plays a crucial role in maintaining an area’s oxygen and carbon dioxide balance. A single grove can produce up to 35% more oxygen compared to other locally found tree species. This makes its plantation an exceptional strategy in lowering carbon footprint while contributing in the fight against global warming.
Bamboo trees are reknowned for soil conservation as they significantly decrease rain runoff and control soil erosion, subsequently making the plant the preffered species in addressing climate change.
KenGen PLC is committed to tackling climate change while uplifting the welfare of communitties living around its power stations. The company’s Tana and Wanji power ststions are located in Murang’a County.
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– Calvin Kuria, Communication Attache