On November 18, 2024, the Homa Bay County Government disbursed over Sh12.3 million to 82 women and youth groups across all 40 wards as part of efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental conservation. Each group received a grant of Sh150,000 under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme, a collaborative initiative involving the county and national governments, the World Bank, and other donors.
The funds are intended for planting 100,000 tree seedlings in local nurseries. Once matured, the seedlings will be sold to both government and non-government agencies and individuals, while also being used to improve tree cover and conserve water towers.
Governor Gladys Wanga, Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, and Environment Executive Joash Aloo handed over the cheques, with the governor emphasizing the importance of conserving degraded forests in areas such as Gwassi, Kodera, Lambwe, and Gembe, which are critical for rainfall formation.
The initiative is expected to strengthen climate resilience, create income-generating opportunities for local groups, and support long-term environmental sustainability in Homa Bay.